New Port Richey's Animal Ordinances: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles animal ordinances a little differently. In New Port Richey, Florida, there are 4 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Dog Leash Laws

New Port Richey requires dogs to be leashed or under control when off the owner's property under Chapter 4 (Animal Control). Pasco County Animal Services enforces animal control throughout the city. Tethering dogs on chains without direct human supervision is prohibited under Pasco County ordinance.

Key details: City Code: Ch. 4 Animal Control. Leash Required: Yes, when off property. Tethering: Only with direct supervision. Enforcement: Pasco County Animal Services.

Leash violations carry fines of $50 for a first offense, $100 for a second, and $250 for subsequent offenses. Dogs at large may be impounded with retrieval fees of $50–$150. Failure to clean up waste is a $75 fine.

Breed Restrictions

New Port Richey cannot enforce breed-specific legislation. Florida Statute §767.14 preempts all local governments from enacting breed-specific dog regulations. Dangerous dog designations are based on individual behavior under FL §767.01-767.04, not breed.

Key details: BSL: Prohibited by FL §767.14. Dangerous Dogs: FL §767.01-767.04 (behavior-based). Breed Bans: Not allowed in Florida. Exception: Only Miami-Dade (grandfathered).

Failure to comply with dangerous dog requirements carries fines of $500–$1,000. Dogs that cause serious injury may be ordered euthanized. Owners face potential criminal charges for negligent handling.

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

Exotic Pets

Exotic pet ownership in New Port Richey is regulated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Class I wildlife (large predators) is prohibited as pets. Class II requires a permit and experience. Class III species require only a no-cost license for personal use.

Key details: Authority: FL FWC (state-regulated). Class I: Prohibited (lions, bears, etc.). Class II: Permit + experience required. Class III: No-cost license for personal use.

Possession of prohibited exotic animals: $500–$5,000 fine, animal seizure, and potential misdemeanor charges. Escaped exotic animals creating public danger may result in felony charges and full liability for damages.

Beekeeping

Beekeeping is permitted in New Port Richey under Florida state preemption. Florida Statute §586 allows managed honey bee colonies on residential property statewide. Beekeepers must register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) and follow Best Management Practices.

Key details: State Law: FL §586 (preempts local bans). Registration: Required with FDACS. Limit (small lots): 3 colonies on 1/4 acre or less. HOA Exception: HOAs may restrict.

Beekeeping complaints are handled through nuisance provisions. Non-compliant apiaries receive correction notices. Fines of $50–$100 apply if setback or flyway barrier requirements are not met within 30 days.

New Port Richey is more permissive than most cities when it comes to beekeeping. That said, there are still limits.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, New Port Richey gives residents more room on animal ordinances. 2 of the 4 rules here are rated permissive. But permissive does not mean unregulated. There are still requirements, and the city does enforce them when violations are reported.

These rules come from New Port Richey's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.