Animal Ordinances in Boulder City, NV: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Boulder City or are thinking about moving there, animal ordinances are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Boulder City has 7 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of animal ordinances, and some of them might surprise you.

Chickens & Livestock

Boulder City generally prohibits chickens and livestock in residential zones. Only properties zoned R-R (Rural Residential) or larger agricultural parcels may keep limited poultry or livestock.

Key details: Residential Zones: No chickens or livestock. Allowed Zones: R-R Rural Residential only. Roosters: Typically prohibited. State Law: NRS 574 / NRS 568. Check With: Community Development 702-293-9282.

Misdemeanor citation, removal order for illegal livestock, and daily fines for continuing violations.

Compared to other cities, Boulder City takes a harder line on chickens & livestock. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Dog Leash Laws

Boulder City requires dogs to be leashed in public areas. Off-leash is permitted only at the designated Boulder City Dog Park in Veterans Memorial Park.

Key details: Leash Required: All public areas. Max Leash Length: 6 feet. Off-Leash Area: Veterans Memorial Dog Park. Waste: Cleanup required. Federal Land: Leash rules on Historic Railroad Trail.

Misdemeanor citation with fine. Dog may be impounded by Animal Control for repeat off-leash violations.

Breed Restrictions

Boulder City does not impose breed-specific restrictions on dogs. Regulation focuses on vicious or dangerous dog behavior regardless of breed under Title 7.

Key details: Breed Bans: None. State Preemption: NRS 202.500. Behavior-Based: Dangerous/vicious by conduct. Pet Limit: 3 dogs/cats/common pets. Code: Title 7 Police Regulations.

Misdemeanor for failure to comply with dangerous dog orders. Felony if the dog seriously injures a person.

Boulder City is more permissive than most cities when it comes to breed restrictions. That said, there are still limits.

Wildlife Feeding

Feeding wildlife including coyotes, burros, bighorn sheep, and waterfowl is prohibited in Boulder City. Wild burros are protected federally but intentional feeding is a violation.

Key details: Feeding Ban: All wildlife. Burros: Federally protected. Federal Law: Wild Horse and Burro Act 1971. State Agency: Nevada Dept of Wildlife. Report: 702-293-9283.

Misdemeanor citation locally; federal fines up to 2,000 dollars for burro feeding/harassment under the Wild Horse and Burro Act.

Compared to other cities, Boulder City takes a harder line on wildlife feeding. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Livestock

Livestock including horses, cattle, goats, sheep, and swine are prohibited in standard residential zones. Only R-R Rural Residential or agricultural parcels may keep livestock per acreage requirements.

Key details: Zones Allowed: R-R Rural Residential only. Minimum Lot: Typically 1+ acre. Setback: 50+ feet from property line. State Law: NRS 568 / NRS 574. Prohibited: All R-1, R-2, R-3 zones.

Misdemeanor citation, removal order for illegal livestock, and daily civil penalties until compliance.

This is one of the stricter rules in Boulder City's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Exotic Pets

Exotic pet regulations under Boulder City Code §7-3-4. Non-dangerous exotic pets may be allowed; dangerous exotic animals prohibited.

Key details: Code: Boulder City §7-3-4. Non-Dangerous Exotics: May be permitted with conditions. Dangerous Animals: Prohibited. State Law: NRS Chapter 202.

Wild/exotic animal possession: seizure and citation. No exceptions. Harming protected species: federal charges possible.

Beekeeping

Beekeeping may be permitted in Boulder City with conditions under Title 11 Zoning. Nevada bee registration under NRS 561 required.

Key details: State Registration: NRS 561 — Nevada Dept. of Agriculture. Local Rules: Title 11 Zoning — setbacks required. Contact: Community Development 702-293-9282. Contact: Boulder City / (702) 293-9200.

Unregistered hive: NDA citation. Quarantine zone non-compliance: hive removal possible. Nuisance bees: Animal Control response.

The Bottom Line

Boulder City is tougher than many cities when it comes to animal ordinances. Out of the 7 rules covered here, 3 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Boulder City, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

All of the above reflects Boulder City's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.