Animal Ordinances in Inglewood, CA: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Inglewood or are thinking about moving there, animal ordinances are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Inglewood has 6 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of animal ordinances, and some of them might surprise you.

Breed Restrictions

Inglewood does not have breed-specific legislation banning particular dog breeds. However, all dogs classified as dangerous or vicious under state law are subject to additional restrictions including mandatory spay/neuter and secure enclosure requirements.

Key details: Breed Bans: None — no breed-specific legislation. Dangerous Dogs: Subject to individual behavior assessment. Requirements: Secure enclosure, spay/neuter, insurance. State Law: California dangerous dog statutes apply.

Owners of dogs declared dangerous who fail to comply with restrictions face fines, mandatory impoundment, and potential euthanasia orders for the animal.

Beekeeping

Inglewood allows beekeeping on residential properties subject to conditions including hive placement, water source requirements, and flyway barriers. Hives must be maintained to prevent swarming and nuisance to neighbors.

Key details: Status: Allowed with conditions. Flyway Barrier: Required to direct bee flight upward. Water Source: Must be provided on property. Neighbor Notice: Recommended.

Bee colonies that create a nuisance or pose a health risk may be ordered removed. Complaints are handled through code enforcement or vector control.

Exotic Pets

Inglewood follows California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations on exotic animal ownership. Most wild, venomous, and large exotic animals are prohibited. Permits may be required for certain species.

Key details: State Law: CA Dept. of Fish & Wildlife regulations. Prohibited: Large cats, primates, venomous reptiles. Allowed: Non-venomous reptiles, small birds, fish. Permits: Required for certain species.

Keeping prohibited exotic animals may result in animal seizure, fines, and criminal charges under state law. The city can order removal of any animal deemed a public safety risk.

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

Chickens & Livestock

Chickens, rabbits, goats, pigeons, ducks, geese, turkeys, and other fowl are prohibited in certain 'Imperial' districts. A valid permit is required from the city to keep livestock elsewhere. Violations are infractions.

Key details: Imperial Districts: Livestock/fowl prohibited. Permit: Required to keep livestock. Animals Covered: Chickens, goats, rabbits, fowl. Violations: Infraction penalty.

Keeping chickens, livestock, or fowl without a permit is illegal per IMC §4-46. Code enforcement citations may be issued.

Dog Leash Laws

Inglewood requires all dogs to be on a leash no longer than 6 feet when in public spaces. Dogs must be licensed and vaccinated against rabies. Off-leash dogs are only allowed in designated dog park areas.

Key details: Leash Length: 6 feet maximum. Licensing: Required for dogs over 4 months. Rabies Vaccination: Required and must be current. Off-Leash: Only in designated dog parks.

Off-leash dogs may result in fines. Unlicensed dogs face additional penalties. Dogs that bite or attack may be impounded and owners face liability.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Inglewood actively enforces its dog leash laws requirements.

Wildlife Feeding

Inglewood's animal code prohibits maintaining any animal that causes annoyance or discomfort through noise or behavior. Wildlife feeding that attracts nuisance animals may be cited. CA Fish & Game Code protections apply.

Key details: Nuisance Animals: Feeding may be cited as nuisance. Code: IMC Animal Control Code. State Law: CA Fish & Game Code. Enforcement: Animal Control.

Warnings for first offense. Fines typically $50 to $500. Repeat violations may result in misdemeanor charges in some jurisdictions.

The Bottom Line

Inglewood is tougher than many cities when it comes to animal ordinances. Out of the 6 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Inglewood, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

This guide is based on Inglewood's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.