Westminster, CA Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)

The City of Westminster sets its own household pet limits in Municipal Code Section 6.12.020 (Domestic animals - Permit required - Exceptions). A household may keep up to three dogs over the age of four months, or three cats over the age of four months, or any combination of the two, provided the total does not exceed six animals. Put another way, it is unlawful to keep, possess or harbor more than six animals over four months of age on any premises, except on a licensed business premises operated for keeping animals. There is a narrow exception for litters: if a female dog or cat has a litter, the owner may keep the pups or kittens through the weaning stage, but not longer than four months. To exceed the limit, an owner must obtain an animal maintenance permit. Applications are requested in person at the Westminster Police Department front counter, the review process takes roughly 30 to 60 days, and the permit may or may not be granted at the discretion of the Senior Animal Control Officer. Westminster runs its own animal-control program through the Police Department rather than using OC Animal Care, so this city limit, not a county limit, is what applies inside Westminster. Owners who keep more than the allowed number without a permit are in violation of Section 6.12.020 and may be cited.