Animal Ordinances in Sandy, UT: What Residents Actually Need to Know
If you live in Sandy or are thinking about moving there, animal ordinances are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Sandy has 7 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of animal ordinances, and some of them might surprise you.
Breed Restrictions
Sandy City has no breed-specific ban. Dangerous or vicious dogs are regulated by behavior under Utah Code 18-1-3 and Salt Lake County ordinance.
Key details: Breed Ban: None. Standard: Behavior-based. State Law: Utah Code 18-1-3. HOA: May restrict.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Sandy is more permissive than most cities when it comes to breed restrictions. That said, there are still limits.
Dog Leash Laws
All dogs in Sandy must be leashed (6 ft max) or under physical restraint when off the owner property. Off-leash only permitted at Dimple Dell Regional Park off-leash area and other designated spots.
Key details: Leash Max: 6 feet. Off-leash: Dimple Dell OLA only. State Law: Utah Code 18-1-1. First Fine: About 50 dollars.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Sandy actively enforces its dog leash laws requirements.
Wildlife Feeding
Feeding deer, elk, and other big game is prohibited under Utah Code 23A-5-313. Sandy foothills see regular deer; intentional feeding can bring a citation and attract cougars.
Key details: State Law: Utah Code 23A-5-313. Big Game: Feeding prohibited. Cougars: Active in foothills. Bird Feeders: Manage carefully.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Sandy actively enforces its wildlife feeding requirements.
Pet Limits
Sandy limits households to a reasonable number of dogs and cats, typically 3 dogs and 3 cats without a kennel or cattery license. Licensing is required for dogs over 4 months.
Key details: Dogs: 3 typical. Cats: 3 typical. License: Annual dog license. Excess: Kennel permit.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Exotic Pets
Sandy prohibits dangerous and exotic animals as pets, including big cats, primates, venomous reptiles, and wolf hybrids. Utah Code R657-3 also restricts native wildlife possession.
Key details: Big Cats: Prohibited. Primates: Prohibited. Venomous: Prohibited. State Rule: DWR R657-3.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Compared to other cities, Sandy takes a harder line on exotic pets. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.
Beekeeping
Beekeeping is allowed on residential lots in Sandy subject to hive setbacks and Utah Department of Agriculture registration under the Utah Bee Inspection Act (Utah Code 4-11).
Key details: Allowed: Residential zones. Registration: UDAF annual. State Act: Utah Code 4-11. Setback: Required from property line.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Chickens & Livestock
Sandy may allow backyard chickens with limits. Roosters typically banned in residential areas. Livestock requires agricultural zoning.
Key details: Hens: Typically 4 to 6 allowed. Roosters: Usually prohibited. Livestock: Agricultural zones. HOA: Often prohibits all.
Unauthorized livestock: removal order. Nuisance: $100 to $500. Roosters in prohibited areas: immediate removal.
The Bottom Line
Sandy is tougher than many cities when it comes to animal ordinances. Out of the 7 rules covered here, 3 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Sandy, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.
This guide is based on Sandy's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.