How Shreveport Handles Animal Ordinances: A Practical Guide

Shreveport maintains 38 local ordinances across all categories, and 4 of those deal specifically with animal ordinances. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Shreveport falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Dog Leash Laws

Shreveport requires all dogs to be on a leash or under physical control when off the owner's property. Chapter 14 prohibits dogs from running at large.

Key details: Leash: Required off owner's property. At Large: Prohibited — impoundment risk. Off-Leash: Dog parks only. Enforcement: Shreveport Animal Services.

Dogs running at large may be impounded. Owners face fines and impoundment fees to retrieve their animal.

This is one of the stricter rules in Shreveport's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Breed Restrictions

Shreveport does not enforce breed-specific bans. Dogs are regulated based on individual behavior. Dogs declared dangerous or vicious face strict containment and insurance requirements.

Key details: Breed Bans: None. Regulation: Behavior-based. Dangerous Dogs: Strict containment required. Insurance: Liability insurance for dangerous dogs.

Owners of declared dangerous dogs who fail to comply face fines, seizure of the animal, and criminal charges.

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

Beekeeping

Shreveport allows beekeeping with conditions. Hives must be set back from property lines and maintained to prevent nuisance conditions. Registration with the Louisiana Department of Agriculture is recommended.

Key details: Status: Allowed with conditions. Setbacks: Required from property lines. Water: On-site source required. Registration: LA Dept of Agriculture recommended.

Beekeeping that creates a nuisance may result in code enforcement action requiring hive relocation or removal.

Exotic Pets

Shreveport and Louisiana regulate exotic animal ownership. Certain dangerous wild animals require permits. Primates and large predators are regulated under state law.

Key details: Authority: LA Dept of Wildlife and Fisheries. Regulated: Large cats, bears, primates. Permits: Required for dangerous animals. Venomous: Regulated under state law.

Keeping prohibited exotic animals results in confiscation and fines. Violations of state wildlife permits carry additional penalties.

The Bottom Line

Shreveport'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 Shreveport is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Shreveport'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.