SMC 9.25.082 caps each Seattle household at three small animals (dogs/cats over eight weeks) without an SAS kennel license. Larger numbers require zoning approval and inspection. Hobby breeders need a separate permit.
Seattle Municipal Code 9.25.082 limits residential properties to three small animals — dogs, cats, or pot-bellied pigs over eight weeks old — per household. Households wanting four or more must apply for an SAS kennel license, which triggers a property inspection, neighbor notification, and zoning compliance review. Multifamily buildings often impose lower private limits via lease. Litters under eight weeks do not count toward the cap. Foster volunteers under formal SAS programs are exempt while animals are in their care. Roosters, livestock, and exotic species fall under separate sections (SMC 9.25.083-085). Excess pet violations are typically reported by neighbors and verified during welfare checks.
Exceeding three-pet limit without kennel license: $54 first, $109 second, up to $500 per animal. SAS may require rehoming surplus animals. Fostering exemption requires documentation.
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