Animal Ordinances in Raymond, MS: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Raymond or are thinking about moving there, animal ordinances are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Raymond has 4 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of animal ordinances, and some of them might surprise you.

Breed Restrictions

Raymond may enforce breed-specific or dangerous dog ordinances. Mississippi does not have a statewide breed ban but allows municipalities to adopt local breed restrictions.

Key details: State Breed Ban: No statewide ban. Local Bans: Permitted by MS law. Dangerous Dog: Registration required. Bite Liability: MS Code Ann. §95-5-23.

Unregistered dangerous dog: $200 to $500 fine. Loose dangerous dog: $500+ fine and possible impoundment. Dog bite liability under MS Code Ann. §95-5-23.

Chickens & Livestock

Raymond MS allows livestock and poultry in this rural Hinds County seat community. Agricultural character of the small town supports farming activities with minimal restrictions on animal keeping.

Key details: Character: Rural county seat. Livestock: Permitted. Chickens: Allowed residential. Agriculture: Farming friendly.

First offense: warning and 14-day compliance window. Fines of $50 to $200 per violation. Non-compliant animals may be removed by animal control.

Dog Leash Laws

Raymond enforces leash laws and animal control through local ordinances under MS Code Ann. §21-19-9. Dogs must be on leash or under control when off owner's property.

Key details: Leash Required: Off property, 6 ft max. Rabies Vaccine: Required by state law. Impound Fee: $15 to $25 per day. Authority: MS Code Ann. §21-19-9.

Dog at large: $50 to $150 fine plus impound fees. No rabies tag: $25 to $100 fine. Impound fees: $15 to $25 per day. Repeat offenses: up to $500.

Beekeeping

Raymond regulates beekeeping through local zoning and the Mississippi Bee and Honey Law under MS Code Ann. §69-39-1 et seq. Mississippi is generally permissive toward apiculture.

Key details: Registration: MS Bureau of Plant Industry. Residential Hives: 2 to 4 typical. Setback: 10 to 25 ft from property line. State Law: MS Code Ann. §69-39-1.

Unregistered hives: state inspection notice. Nuisance complaints: $50 to $200 fine. Hive removal may be ordered if setback or management requirements are not met.

The rules around beekeeping in Raymond lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

The Bottom Line

Raymond'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 Raymond is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Raymond 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.