How South Jordan Handles Animal Ordinances: A Practical Guide
South Jordan maintains 87 local ordinances across all categories, and 8 of those deal specifically with animal ordinances. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where South Jordan falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.
Chickens & Livestock
South Jordan 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.
Breed Restrictions
South Jordan designates dangerous dogs based on behavior under Title 6. Utah Code §18-1-3 governs liability, and Utah Code §11-46-201 preempts breed-specific legislation statewide.
Key details: Standard: Behavior-based, not breed-based. BSL preemption: Utah Code §11-46-201. State dangerous-dog law: Utah Code §18-1-3. Common requirements: Muzzle, secure enclosure, insurance. Appeal: Administrative hearing.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
This is one of the stricter rules in South Jordan's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
Livestock
Livestock in South Jordan is permitted only on properties meeting minimum acreage and zoning requirements under Title 17 (zoning) and Title 6 (animals). Most residential lots cannot keep horses or cattle.
Key details: Zoning controls: Title 17 (A-5, RR, legacy parcels). Typical density: 1 large animal per 0.5 acre pasture. Setbacks: 50–100 ft for corrals/manure. Pigs: Generally prohibited in residential zones. State fence law: Utah Code §4-25 (open range default).
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Beekeeping
Backyard beekeeping is allowed in South Jordan with hive registration to the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food under the Utah Bee Inspection Act (Utah Code §4-11).
Key details: State registration: Utah Dept of Agriculture & Food (annual). Governing law: Utah Code §4-11 (Bee Inspection Act). Typical hive limit: 2 hives on under 0.25 acre. Setback: ~10 ft with flyway barrier. HOA check: Often prohibited in CC&Rs.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Pet Limits
South Jordan limits the number of dogs and cats per residence under Title 6 — commonly 3 dogs and 3 cats without a kennel permit.
Key details: Typical limit: 3 dogs and 3 cats over 4 months. Kennel permit: Required to exceed limits. Litter grace: ~4 months before counting. Commercial kennels: Zoning-restricted. HOA overlay: May impose lower caps.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Exotic Pets
South Jordan prohibits most exotic and dangerous animals (large cats, primates, venomous reptiles, alligators) in residential zones. State law (Utah Admin Code R657-3) governs possession of wildlife.
Key details: Prohibited (city): Big cats, primates, bears, venomous reptiles, alligators. State rule: Utah Admin Code R657-3. Certificate of Registration: Required for many exotics. Ferrets: Legal in Utah. Hedgehogs: Legal in Utah.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. South Jordan actively enforces its exotic pets requirements.
Wildlife Feeding
Wildlife in South Jordan — including deer, raccoons, skunks, and occasional mountain lions — is regulated by Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR). Feeding wildlife is discouraged; some species are protected.
Key details: Primary authority: Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. DWR Northern Region: 801-491-5678. Feeding: Discouraged; illegal for big game in some contexts. Rabies vectors: Skunks, raccoons, bats — do not handle. Removal: DWR-permitted trapper for nuisance wildlife.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Dog Leash Laws
South Jordan requires all dogs over 3 months to be licensed annually and leashed (max 6 ft) when off the owner's property, under Title 6 (Animals) of the Municipal Code.
Key details: License age: 3 months and older. Leash length: 6 feet maximum. Rabies vaccination: Required for licensing. Animal control: Salt Lake County Animal Services. Owner liability: Utah Code §18-1-1 strict liability.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
The Bottom Line
South Jordan is tougher than many cities when it comes to animal ordinances. Out of the 8 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in South Jordan, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.
All of the above reflects South Jordan'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.