Chico, CA Animal Ordinances: Pet Store Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit issued by
- Animal Services
- Tied to
- Health & Safety Code §122350
- Annual fee due
- January 2
- Also requires
- zoning-compliant location
Summary
Chico requires a permit for any pet shop or kennel, tied to compliance with California's Pet Store Animal Care Act and local standard-of-care rules, not a local retail sale ban.
A pet shop or kennel permit shall be granted only after Animal Services or designee has determined: A. The pet shop or kennel meets the standards set forth in California Health and Safety Codes §§ 122350 et seq., is not in violation of Penal Code § 597, and meets the requirements set forth in § 7.24.110 ("Standard of Care Guidelines in Maintaining Pet Shop and Kennel") under this chapter;
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Supplement contains local legislation current through: Codified Resolution No. 53-26, adopted 7-14-26 and Ordinance No. 2622, adopted 6-2-26).
Full Breakdown
Chapter 7.24 requires Animal Services approval before anyone may operate a pet shop or kennel in Chico, and § 7.24.030 conditions that permit on meeting the standards in California Health & Safety Code § 122350 et seq. (the Pet Store Animal Care Act), staying clear of Penal Code § 597, and satisfying § 7.24.110's care guidelines, plus a zoning-compliant location and a current fee. Chico's own ordinance purpose section cites that Act along with the Lockyer-Polanco-Farr Pet Protection Act as the state framework pet shops must document compliance with; the city layers its own permit, inspection, and revocation process on top rather than imposing a separate local sale restriction.
Violations & Fines
Operating a pet shop or kennel without a valid Chico permit is unlawful under § 7.24.040; the permit can also be revoked for nuisance conditions or falsified applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Chico pet store sell puppies from a breeder?
Does Chico require a permit to run a home kennel?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chico
California rules heatmap·Compare Chico to another location·View the California animal ordinances overview
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