How Manitou Springs Handles Animal Ordinances: A Practical Guide

Manitou Springs maintains 39 local ordinances across all categories, and 5 of those deal specifically with animal ordinances. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Manitou Springs falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Beekeeping

Beekeeping in Manitou Springs is subject to zoning and land use standards under Title 18 (LUDC). Colorado Department of Agriculture hive registration is required. Given the dense residential and tourist character of the city, hive placement and management require care.

Key details: Code Reference: Title 18 LUDC — animal keeping standards. State Registration: Required by CO Dept of Agriculture — free (C.R.S. §35-27-115). Flyway Management: Direct away from neighbors/pedestrians. Planning Dept: 719-685-4398 for zone-specific allowances.

Unauthorized hives: removal order. Nuisance complaints: fines. Unregistered apiary: state-level penalty.

Breed Restrictions

Manitou Springs has no breed-specific ordinance. Colorado SB 21-132 (2021) prohibits local governments from enacting breed-specific bans. Dangerous animals may be regulated individually based on behavior.

Key details: Breed Ban: None — CO SB 21-132 prohibits local BSL. Dangerous Animals: Regulated by behavior under Chapter 7. Animal Control: HSPPR: 719-302-8798. Topic: Breed Restrictions.

Breed ban violations: impoundment and fines per city ordinance. Dangerous dog violations: escalating penalties.

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

Dog Leash Laws

Manitou Springs requires all dogs to be on a leash no longer than 4 feet when off the owner's property (Municipal Code Chapter 7). The city has no dog park; off-leash areas are limited. HSPPR provides animal control services.

Key details: Leash Required: Yes — max 4-foot leash off owner's property. Code Section: Chapter 7 — Animals (§7.07.010). Waste Cleanup: Must carry cleanup supplies when walking. Off-Leash Areas: None in city — use Red Rock Canyon or Bear Creek. Animal Control: HSPPR: 719-302-8798.

Citations issued under Chapter 7. Unlicensed animals subject to impound.

Compared to other cities, Manitou Springs takes a harder line on dog leash laws. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

Exotic Pets

Exotic or wild animals are subject to Colorado state wildlife regulations and Manitou Springs animal ordinances. Keeping wildlife or non-domesticated animals as pets is generally prohibited without appropriate state permits.

Key details: State Law: C.R.S. §33-6-107 — CO Wildlife Act. Local Restrictions: Chapter 7 restricts exotic animals in city. State Permits: Required for some exotics through CO Parks & Wildlife. Animal Control: HSPPR: 719-302-8798.

Confiscation of prohibited animals. Fines $500 to $5,000. Criminal charges possible for dangerous species. Owner liable for damages from escaped animals.

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

Chickens & Livestock

Manitou Springs may allow backyard chickens with limits. Roosters typically banned in residential areas. Livestock requires agricultural zoning or minimum lot size.

Key details: Hens: Typically 4 to 8 allowed. Roosters: Usually prohibited. Livestock: Agricultural zones. HOA: Often prohibits all.

Unauthorized livestock: removal order. Nuisance: $100 to $500. Roosters in prohibited areas: immediate removal.

The Bottom Line

Manitou Springs is tougher than many cities when it comes to animal ordinances. Out of the 5 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Manitou Springs, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

Keep in mind that Manitou Springs can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.