Pomona's Animal Ordinances: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles animal ordinances a little differently. In Pomona, 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

Pomona allows up to 24 chickens on residential property but roosters are prohibited. Swine, dangerous reptiles, bees, male goats, and exotic animals without permits are banned within city limits. Slaughtering is prohibited except rabbits and chickens for domestic use.

Key details: Chickens: Up to 24 allowed, no roosters. Prohibited: Swine, bees, male goats, dangerous reptiles. Slaughter: Only rabbits/chickens for domestic use. Code: Pomona City Code Ch. 6 (Animals).

Violations are enforced by the Inland Valley Humane Society and Code Compliance. Unsanitary conditions, prohibited animals, or excess animals without permits result in citations.

Wildlife Feeding

Pomona does not have a specific wildlife feeding ordinance. Nuisance conditions from wildlife attractants may be enforced under general nuisance provisions of the municipal code. Inland Valley Humane Society handles wildlife complaints.

Key details: Local Ordinance: No specific wildlife feeding ban. Nuisance Code: General nuisance provisions apply. Wildlife Services: Inland Valley Humane Society. Contact: 909-623-9777.

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

Breed Restrictions

Pomona does not have breed-specific legislation. CA Food & Agricultural Code Section 31683 generally preempts local breed bans. Dangerous dog laws focus on individual animal behavior, not breed.

Key details: Breed Bans: None in Pomona. State Law: CA F&AG Code Section 31683. Focus: Individual behavior, not breed. Dangerous Dogs: Per CA state dangerous dog statutes.

Breed-based ordinances are void under state law. Dangerous dog violations based on behavior: fines, containment requirements, possible euthanasia for severe attacks.

The rules around breed restrictions in Pomona lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

Dog Leash Laws

Pomona follows LA County leash requirements. Dogs must be on a leash not exceeding 6 ft when on public property. All dogs and cats must be licensed. Animal services provided by Inland Valley Humane Society.

Key details: Leash: Required, max 6 ft on public property. Licensing: Required for dogs and cats. Animal Services: Inland Valley Humane Society. Contact: 909-623-9777.

Unleashed dogs may be impounded by the Inland Valley Humane Society. Owners face fines for unlicensed dogs, unvaccinated animals, and nuisance complaints. Dangerous dogs face additional restrictions.

Beekeeping

Pomona City Code Chapter 6 (Animals) regulates beekeeping within city limits. Beekeeping is permitted in certain zones with restrictions on hive placement, number of colonies, and setbacks from property lines and neighboring structures.

Key details: Code Section: Ch. 6 (Animals). State Law: CA Food & Ag Code §29000. Registration: LA County Agricultural Commissioner. Enforcement: Code Compliance: (909) 620-2374.

Bee colonies that constitute a nuisance (aggressive behavior, swarming, proximity issues) may be abated by the city. Violations of animal keeping provisions are subject to code enforcement citations.

Exotic Pets

Exotic pet ownership in Pomona is governed by California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations (Title 14, Section 671) and Pomona City Code Chapter 6. Most exotic animals including ferrets, hedgehogs, monkeys, and large reptiles are prohibited statewide.

Key details: State Regulation: CA Title 14, §671. Local Code: Ch. 6 (Animals). Prohibited: Ferrets, hedgehogs, monkeys, large snakes. Permit Required: CA DFW restricted species permit. Max Fine: Up to $10,000 (state).

Keeping a restricted species without a permit is a misdemeanor under state law, carrying fines up to $10,000 and/or six months in jail. The animal may be confiscated by authorities.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Pomona actively enforces its exotic pets requirements.

The Bottom Line

Pomona's animal ordinances rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Pomona is broadly strict or permissive.

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