Tempe, AZ Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Residential limit
- ~5 dogs/cats typical
- Cruelty statute
- AZ §13-2910
- Forfeiture
- §13-2910.07 boarding
- Misdemeanor max
- $2,500 + jail
- Investigator
- MCACC + Tempe PD
Summary
Tempe enforces AZ §13-2910 animal cruelty for hoarding. Tempe City Code Ch. 8 limits number of dogs/cats in residential zones; MCACC investigates complaints alongside Tempe PD.
A person commits cruelty to animals if the person does any of the following:
1. Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly subjects any animal under the person's custody or control to cruel neglect or abandonment.
2. Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly fails to provide medical attention necessary to prevent protracted suffering to any animal under the person's custody or control.
3. Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly inflicts unnecessary physical injury to any animal.
4. Recklessly subjects any animal to cruel mistreatment.
5. Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly kills any animal under the custody or control of another person without either legal privilege or consent of the owner.
6.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Tempe City Code Ch. 8 (Animals) restricts households to typically 5 dogs/cats combined in single-family residential before kennel permit required. Hoarding, characterized by accumulation beyond capacity to care, plus neglect indicators (emaciation, untreated medical conditions, feces buildup), is charged under AZ §13-2910. Class 1 misdemeanor per animal; elevates to class 6 felony with serious physical injury or involving 10+ animals in some cases. Maricopa County Animal Care & Control conducts welfare investigations; Tempe PD's Crimes Against Persons unit handles criminal cases. Seized animals may be surrendered under AZ §13-2910.07 forfeiture if owner cannot pay boarding within 30 days.
Violations & Fines
Misdemeanor cruelty: up to $2,500 + 6 months jail per count. Felony: up to 2 years prison + $150,000. Restitution for veterinary care ordered. Tempe code limit violations: $100 civil + permit requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I report suspected hoarding in Tempe?
Can hoarded animals be taken from the owner?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Tempe
Compare Tempe to another location·View the Arizona animal ordinances overview
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Pet Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Maricopa County handle pet limits.