San Jose's Companion Animal Retail ordinance, SJMC chapter 6.86, bars pet stores from selling commercially bred dogs, cats, and rabbits. Stores may only offer animals sourced from public shelters or nonprofit rescues. The local rule predates statewide AB-485, which now imposes a similar standard across California.
SJMC chapter 6.86 created San Jose's Companion Animal Retail rules years before California's statewide ban. The ordinance prohibits pet stores from selling dogs, cats, and rabbits unless the animals come from a public animal shelter or a Section 501(c)(3) nonprofit rescue. Stores must keep records identifying each animal's source and post that information on cages. Animal Care and Services inspects stores and investigates complaints. California AB-485, codified in Health and Safety Code section 122354.5, imposes a similar statewide standard, so San Jose's rule operates alongside state law and is enforced by city staff.
Selling commercially bred puppies, kittens, or rabbits violates SJMC chapter 6.86 and California Health and Safety Code section 122354.5. Penalties include administrative fines, business permit actions, civil enforcement, and potential criminal misdemeanor charges for repeat violators.
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