Arizona HB-2702 (2017) preempted local ordinances banning retail pet-store sales of dogs and cats. Maricopa County and its cities cannot enforce a sourcing ban, but stores must follow Arizona's Pet Lemon Law (ARS §44-1799) and humane-care standards enforced by MCACC.
Before 2017 several Arizona cities considered ordinances limiting pet stores to rescue and shelter animals. Arizona HB-2702, signed in 2017, blocked those efforts by preempting any local rule that restricts which dogs or cats a licensed pet dealer may sell. Stores must still comply with Arizona's Pet Purchaser Protection Act (the Pet Lemon Law in ARS §44-1799), provide health certificates, disclose breeder information, and meet humane housing and care standards. Maricopa County Animal Care and Control inspects for cruelty and sanitation, and county zoning regulates store siting in unincorporated areas, but the county cannot prohibit retail sale of commercially bred puppies or kittens.
Pet stores failing health-certificate, disclosure, or humane-care duties face civil penalties under ARS §44-1799 and local code citations. Buyers can demand refund, replacement, or vet-cost reimbursement. Cruelty findings trigger MCACC seizure under ARS §13-2910.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Maricopa County.
See how other cities in Maricopa County handle pet store rules.
See how Gilbert's pet store rules rules stack up against other locations.
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