Pasadena's Animal Ordinances: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles animal ordinances a little differently. In Pasadena, California, there are 6 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.

Chickens & Livestock

Pasadena allows backyard chickens in residential zones with restrictions. Roosters are generally prohibited. Livestock regulations vary by zone under Title 17. The Pasadena Humane Society handles animal control enforcement.

Key details: Hens: Allowed in residential zones. Roosters: Generally prohibited. Livestock: Zone-dependent. Enforcement: Pasadena Humane Society.

Violations of fowl restrictions are enforced by Pasadena Humane. Non-compliant keeping may result in citations and orders to remove the animals.

Wildlife Feeding

Pasadena discourages feeding wildlife, particularly coyotes and bears that venture into hillside neighborhoods. Feeding can attract dangerous wildlife and may be cited as a nuisance. The city provides wildlife coexistence guidance.

Key details: Feeding Wildlife: Discouraged. Coyotes/Bears: Present in hillside areas. Enforcement: Nuisance citation possible. Bird Feeders: Generally permitted.

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

Dog Leash Laws

Pasadena requires all dogs to be on a leash no longer than 6 feet when in public areas. Dogs must be licensed with the city and have current rabies vaccinations.

Key details: Leash: Required, 6 feet maximum. License: Annual through Pasadena Humane. Rabies: Current vaccination required. Waste: Must clean up in public areas.

Dogs at large result in fines and impoundment. Unlicensed dogs carry additional penalties. Failure to clean up waste is a separate violation.

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

Breed Restrictions

Pasadena does not have breed-specific legislation. California state law (Food and Agricultural Code § 31683) preempts local breed-specific bans. Dogs are regulated based on individual behavior.

Key details: Breed Bans: None — CA law preempts local bans. Dangerous Dog: Based on individual behavior. CA Code: Food & Ag Code § 31683. Spay/Neuter: May be required for certain breeds.

Owners of declared vicious dogs who fail to comply with containment orders face misdemeanor charges and potential euthanasia of the animal.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Pasadena gives residents more flexibility on breed restrictions.

Beekeeping

Pasadena allows beekeeping in residential areas. California has a robust legal framework supporting beekeeping. Hives must be maintained to prevent nuisance conditions to neighbors.

Key details: Allowed: Yes, in residential areas. Registration: LA County Agricultural Commissioner. Flyway Barrier: 6 feet recommended near property lines. Water Source: Required to prevent nuisance.

Apiaries causing nuisance conditions may be abated under local nuisance ordinances. Unregistered hives may face county enforcement.

Exotic Pets

California has some of the strictest exotic animal laws in the nation. Ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders, and most wild animals are prohibited as pets. Pasadena follows state law through the CDFW.

Key details: Authority: CA Dept. of Fish and Wildlife. Prohibited: Ferrets, hedgehogs, sugar gliders. Also Prohibited: Primates, large cats, bears. Fine: Up to $10,000.

Possession of prohibited animals results in confiscation, fines up to $10,000, and potential criminal charges.

Compared to other cities, Pasadena takes a harder line on exotic pets. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

The Bottom Line

Pasadena 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 Pasadena, 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 Pasadena'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.