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Santa Maria, CA Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified June 2026

Key Facts

Kennel threshold
4 or more dogs (Muni. Code 12-2.78)
Dog license required at
4 months of age
Unaltered cat license
Required
Non-resident exemption
Up to 30 days
Licensing agency
Santa Barbara County Animal Services, 548 W. Foster Rd.

Summary

Santa Maria does not cap the number of dogs at a residence by simple ordinance, but Municipal Code Section 12-2.78 defines any property with four or more dogs as a 'kennel,' which is a regulated land use subject to zoning permits. Every dog over four months must also be licensed under Section 5-3.301.

Kennel means any lot, building, structure, enclosure or premises wherein four or more dogs are kept or maintained for any purpose whatsoever.

View official code

Full Breakdown

Santa Maria Municipal Code Section 12-2.78 defines a kennel as any lot, building, structure, enclosure, or premises where four or more dogs are kept or maintained for any purpose. Kennels are not allowed by right in residential zones and require zoning approval. Separately, Section 5-3.301 (Animal Licensing) makes it unlawful to own, keep, or control any dog over four months of age, or any unaltered cat, without an Altered or Unaltered Animal License issued by Santa Barbara County Animal Services. Section 5-3.302 exempts dogs and cats owned by non-residents who are traveling through or temporarily in Santa Maria for no more than 30 days. Cats are licensed only if unaltered.

Violations & Fines

Keeping four or more dogs without a kennel permit is a zoning violation enforced by Code Enforcement; unlicensed dogs are subject to citation and impound. Reclaim fees and back-license fees apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many dogs can I keep at my Santa Maria home?
There is no hard numeric cap in Chapter 5-3, but once you have four or more dogs your property meets the Municipal Code 12-2.78 definition of a kennel and you need zoning approval. Three dogs is the practical limit in standard residential zones.
Do I need to license my cat?
Only if the cat is unaltered. Section 5-3.301 requires a license for any dog over four months and for any unaltered cat. Spayed or neutered cats do not need a city license.
Where do I get a Santa Maria dog license?
Through Santa Barbara County Animal Services at 548 W. Foster Road in Santa Maria, which handles animal services under contract with the City.

Sources & Official References

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