Clackamas County, OR Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Hard numeric cap
- None countywide
- More than one dog
- Multiple Dog License required
- Requires
- Vet or county care inspection
- Code cite
- CCC 5.01.030(A)(2)
- Zoning caveat
- Kennel land-use may apply
Summary
Clackamas County sets no hard cap on dogs, but owning more than one dog requires a Multiple Dog License, granted only after a veterinarian or county inspection confirms minimum-care standards are met. Zoning can further limit kennels; cities set their own pet limits.
When an owner has more than one dog, the owner may obtain or renew a multiple dog license after submitting a completed, qualifying Multiple Dog License Application and after either 1) submitting an inspection certification from a veterinarian licensed in the state of Oregon; or 2) a County inspection of the applicant's premises to determine that the owner is in compliance with minimum care standards...
Full Breakdown
Under Clackamas County Code 5.01.030(A)(2), when an owner has more than one dog they may obtain a Multiple Dog License only after submitting a qualifying application plus either a veterinarian inspection certification or a county inspection confirming compliance with minimum-care standards (CCC 5.01.020(A)(21)). A multiple dog license may be denied for anyone under investigation or on probation for an animal-related crime. Issuance of the license does not by itself authorize a land use - applicants may need to show compliance with zoning or land-use restrictions (e.g., kennel rules). So the practical 'limit' is a licensing and zoning gate rather than a fixed maximum number. Cities within the county may impose their own numeric pet limits.
Violations & Fines
Keeping multiple dogs without the required Multiple Dog License is a violation of CCC 5.01, prosecuted under 5.01.070 and subject to fines, civil penalties and other restrictions imposed by a Hearings Officer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many dogs can I have in unincorporated Clackamas County?
Can a multiple dog license be refused?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Clackamas County
Compare Clackamas County to another location·View the Oregon animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.