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San Bernardino County, CA Animal Ordinances: Pet Store Rules (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Verified 1 week ago|Source: California Health and Safety Code 122354.5 →

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Key Facts

State law: AB 485 / HSC 122354.5
Sources: Shelter or rescue only
Records: Kept one year
Penalty: Up to $500 per animal

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of San Bernardino County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

Summary

California law and San Bernardino County retail rules require pet stores selling dogs, cats, or rabbits to source only from shelters or rescues. AB 485 enforcement is shared between Animal Care, code compliance, and the California Attorney General.

Full Breakdown

California Health and Safety Code section 122354.5 (AB 485) bans retail pet store sales of commercially bred dogs, cats, and rabbits. Stores must post the originating shelter or rescue and maintain records for one year for inspection. SBC Animal Care officers may inspect during business hours and refer violations to district attorneys. Direct sales by hobby breeders to consumers remain legal but require kennel permits when scale exceeds Title 3 thresholds. The rule reduces puppy mill demand statewide.

Violations & Fines

Civil penalties up to five hundred dollars per animal under state law, plus county code-compliance citations and potential business license suspension by the relevant city or county.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a hobby breeder still sell direct?

Yes, AB 485 targets retail stores, not direct breeder-to-consumer sales. Hobby breeders must still obtain county breeder permits when above household limits.

Who inspects pet stores?

Animal Care, county code compliance, and the California Attorney General share authority. Complaints can be filed online with Animal Care or the AG office.

How does San Bernardino County compare?

See how San Bernardino County's pet store rules rules stack up against other locations.

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San Bernardino County, CA Animal Ordinances: Pet Store Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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