Animal Ordinances in Redwood City, CA: What Residents Actually Need to Know

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

Beekeeping

Redwood City does not have a specific beekeeping ordinance. Beekeeping may be subject to nuisance provisions if bees disturb neighbors. Consult the Planning Division and comply with state hive registration before installing hives.

Key details: Specific Ordinance: None found. Nuisance Rules: Apply if bees disturb neighbors. State Registration: CDFA hive registration required. Contact: Planning Division (650) 780-7234.

Unauthorized hives: removal order. Nuisance complaints: mediation then fines. Swarm incidents: emergency removal.

Dog Leash Laws

Redwood City requires all dogs to be leashed on public property at all times. Voice control is not a substitute for a leash in San Mateo County. Off-leash areas exist at designated dog parks.

Key details: Leash Required: Yes, on all public property. Voice Control: Not acceptable — leash required. Off-Leash Areas: Red Morton Community Park, Stulsaft Park. Animal Control: Peninsula Humane Society (650) 340-8200.

Off-leash: $50 to $200 citation. Failure to clean up: $100 to $500. Unlicensed dog: $50 to $250. At-large dog: impound fees.

Exotic Pets

Keeping exotic animals in Redwood City requires a use permit from the Planning and Building Department per San Mateo County zoning provisions. California state law also bans many exotic species outright.

Key details: Exotic Animal Permit: Use permit required (Planning & Building). CA State Ban: Many species prohibited outright. Requirements: Safe, sanitary housing; no public safety risk. Contact: Planning Division (650) 780-7234.

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

Breed Restrictions

Redwood City does not ban specific dog breeds. All dogs must be licensed and vaccinated. Dogs deemed dangerous after an incident may face special restrictions including muzzling, confinement requirements, and liability insurance.

Key details: Breed Ban: None. Dangerous Dogs: Enhanced requirements after incident. License Required: Yes (San Mateo County). Code: RWC City Code Ch. 5.

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

The Bottom Line

Redwood City'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 Redwood City is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Redwood City 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.