Wichita, KS Animal Ordinances: Pet Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Dog limit
- 3 dogs without a permit
- Cat limit
- 3 cats without a permit
- Permit cap
- Up to 4 dogs or 4 cats
- Permit fee
- $25 per animal type
- Enforcement
- Misdemeanor if exceeded
Summary
Wichita caps most properties at three dogs and three cats total, with separate limits on rabbits, fowl, and pigeons. Owners who want more must get an Animal Maintenance Permit from the Chief of Police.
No person shall own, keep or harbor upon any premises or property, or in any dwelling of any type within the city: 1.Livestock;2.More than three dogs;3.More than three cats;4.More than two rabbits;5.More than three fowl; or6.More than three pigeons; unless such person has a current Animal Maintenance Permit or variance issued by the Chief of Police or designee authorizing the maintenance of such animals.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 35).
Full Breakdown
City code caps ownership at three dogs, three cats, two rabbits, three fowl, or three pigeons per premises, and bars more than three different kinds of domestic animals without a permit. Anyone wanting to exceed those numbers must obtain an Animal Maintenance Permit from the Chief of Police or designee, paying a $25 fee per animal type and passing a nuisance and sanitary-care review. Livestock is barred outright without a permit, capped at one head per acre. A separate variance process can push totals above the standard four-dog or four-cat permit cap. Owning more animals than allowed without the permit is a misdemeanor.
Violations & Fines
Owning more than three dogs or three cats without a current Animal Maintenance Permit is a misdemeanor, enforced by Wichita Animal Services and the Chief of Police.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a permit to own more pets in Wichita?
Does the pet limit also cover other animals?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Wichita
Compare Wichita to another location·View the Kansas animal ordinances overview
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