Richland, WA Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)

Richland Municipal Code § 7.03.015 limits every dwelling unit, plus its accompanying lot or common area, to five household pets as defined in RMC § 7.03.010. That definition sweeps broadly: dogs, cats, rabbits, chickens (except roosters), ducks, geese, pigeons, or other similar domestic animals over six months of age all count toward the cap, so a household could mix two dogs, two cats and one rabbit and still be within the limit, but a sixth qualifying animal puts the property over the line. Cross the threshold and the property meets the code's definition of a "commercial kennel," any lot, premises, building or structure where six or more dogs, cats and/or household pets over six months old are kept, which under RMC § 7.03.250 requires a current business license and a valid commercial kennel license posted in plain view, issued by the city license officer after an annual inspection by Development Services.

The Tri-Cities animal control authority, the joint agency Richland shares with Pasco and Kennewick, and its poundmaster and animal control officers enforce the chapter. Animals under six months old are not counted toward either the five-pet household limit or the six-animal kennel threshold, so a litter of puppies or kittens does not automatically trigger a licensing requirement until they age past six months. The rule applies citywide to every dwelling unit and does not distinguish by zoning district; households wanting more animals must instead qualify and license as a commercial kennel.