Southaven, MS Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)

Section 3-9(c) of the Southaven Code caps the number of dogs and cats a person can have. In any area zoned other than agricultural, no person can have in their possession or on their property more than five (5) dogs and/or cats in any combination, counting animals over the age of three (3) months. Dogs and cats share one combined cap. In areas zoned agricultural, § 3-9(c)(1) raises the combined limit to ten (10) animals over the age of three (3) months.

Section 3-9(c)(2) sets a separate limit for other pets. In any zoning, no person can have more than three (3) legal animals kept as pets, other than dogs or cats, when the animals have mobility that would allow them to exit the owner's premises and become at large. The limit does not apply to pet stores or other legal enterprises allowed in the City of Southaven where animals are properly housed, and it does not apply to birds or fish kept as pets. Section 3-1 defines a legal animal as any animal allowed to be kept as a pet at a residence under the Code and not excluded or prohibited in the City of Southaven.

Ownership carries duties beyond the count. Section 3-16 requires every dog or cat three (3) months of age or older to be vaccinated against rabies and to wear a metal tag with the vaccination serial number and year at all times. Section 3-15 requires owners to keep animal pens clean, to remove fecal matter deposited on public walks, streets, recreation areas or another person's private property, and to prevent unsanitary or malodorous conditions. Section 3-17 bars letting an animal run at large. A nuisance petition under § 3-15(g) goes to the municipal court, which orders the conditions abated within fifteen (15) days.