DC residential zoning generally allows up to four dogs or cats over four months old per household without a kennel license. Exceeding the limit triggers a multi-pet permit through DOH and zoning review.
DCMR Title 24 Chapter 9 sets the four-pet threshold. Households with five or more dogs or cats over four months must apply for a kennel license, with conditions covering sanitation, noise, and proximity to neighbors. Kennel applications go through DOH Animal Services with a public notice period. Multi-unit properties may have stricter limits set by HOAs or condo bylaws. Service and emotional support animals do not count against the limit. Foster placements through registered DC rescues are also exempt while documented.
Operating an unlicensed kennel: 500 dollars per cycle plus removal orders; persistent noise or sanitation issues escalate to nuisance abatement under DC Code 8-1808.
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