Phoenix, AZ Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Kennel Definition
- 5 or more dogs (Sec. 8-1)
- Household Dog Cap
- None stated; 5+ triggers kennel rules
- Miniature Pigs
- Max 3 per household (Sec. 8-8(b))
Summary
Phoenix sets no flat per-household cap on cats or dogs, but defines a 'kennel' as five or more dogs kept under controlled conditions, which triggers kennel regulation and zoning. Potbelly pigs are capped at three per household.
Kennel means an enclosed, controlled area, inaccessible to other animals, in which a person keeps, harbors or maintains five or more dogs under controlled conditions. ... (b) No swine shall be kept within the City limits, except purebred miniature Vietnamese potbelly pigs and other similar purebred miniature pigs. Miniature pigs shall not exceed one hundred twenty-five pounds. No more than three miniature pigs shall be allowed per household.
Full Breakdown
Phoenix City Code Sec. 8-1 defines a 'kennel' as an enclosed, controlled area, inaccessible to other animals, in which a person keeps, harbors or maintains five or more dogs under controlled conditions. There is no separate numeric ceiling on household dogs in Chapter 8, but reaching five dogs places the property within the kennel definition, which is regulated through the city's zoning and animal-control framework. Sec. 8-8(b) caps miniature (Vietnamese potbelly) pigs at three per household. Poultry and rodent numbers are limited by acreage under Sec. 8-7(b). General keeping of any animal is conditioned on not creating a health nuisance under Sec. 8-8(a).
Violations & Fines
Operating a kennel (five or more dogs) without complying with zoning/permit requirements, or exceeding the three-pig limit, is an animal-code violation subject to civil sanction.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many dogs can I own in Phoenix?
How many potbelly pigs can I keep in Phoenix?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Phoenix
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Pet Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Maricopa County handle pet limits.