Arizona HB-2702 (2017) preempted local ordinances banning retail pet-store sales of dogs and cats. Phoenix cannot enforce a sourcing ban, but stores must follow state consumer-protection rules, the Pet Lemon Law, and Phoenix Code Chapter 8 humane care standards.
Before 2017 several Arizona cities, including Phoenix and Tempe, 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 still must 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 under Phoenix Code Chapter 8. Phoenix can still inspect for cruelty, sanitation, and zoning violations, but cannot prohibit retail sale of commercially bred puppies or kittens.
Pet stores that fail health-certificate, disclosure, or humane-care duties face civil penalties under ARS §44-1799 and Phoenix Code Chapter 8 citations. Buyers can demand refund, replacement, or vet-cost reimbursement under the Pet Lemon Law. Cruelty findings trigger MCACC seizure.
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