How West Jordan Handles Animal Ordinances: A Practical Guide

West Jordan maintains 113 local ordinances across all categories, and 7 of those deal specifically with animal ordinances. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where West Jordan falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Dog Leash Laws

West Jordan requires all dogs to be leashed in public (max 6 feet) or under direct voice/visual control in designated off-leash areas. Running at large is a misdemeanor with $75+ fines.

Key details: Leash Max: 6 feet. Off-leash Areas: Designated dog parks only. First Fine: ~$75. Bite Liability: Strict (Utah 18-1-1).

Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. West Jordan actively enforces its dog leash laws requirements.

Breed Restrictions

West Jordan does not enforce breed-specific legislation. Dangerous-dog designation is behavior-based under Utah Code 18-1-3. Pit bulls and other breeds are legal citywide.

Key details: BSL: None. State Preemption: Utah Code 18-2-101. Dangerous Dog: Behavior-based. State Law: Utah Code 18-1-3. Insurance: $100k liability if designated.

Failure to comply with dangerous-dog conditions: Class B misdemeanor under Utah Code 18-2-102, up to $1,000 fine and 6 months jail, plus possible dog impoundment or destruction order. Civil strict liability for bites under Utah Code 18-1-3 regardless of prior behavior.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find West Jordan gives residents more flexibility on breed restrictions.

Pet Limits

West Jordan limits households to 3 dogs and 3 cats over 4 months of age. Multi-pet permits are available for a fee with inspection. Licensing is required annually for all dogs.

Key details: Dog Limit: 3 per household. Cat Limit: 3 per household. Age Threshold: Over 4 months. Multi-pet Permit: Inspection required. License: Annual required for dogs.

Exceeding the limit without a multi-pet permit: Class C misdemeanor, fine up to $750. Unlicensed dog: $50 citation plus license back-fees. Surrender or permit compliance typically required within 30 days.

Wildlife Feeding

Feeding deer, raccoons, and other wildlife is prohibited under Utah Code 23-13-14. West Jordan sits near the Wasatch foothills where deer-human conflicts are common. Fines start at $100.

Key details: State Law: Utah Code 23A-5-314. Fine: $100+ first offense. Birds: Feeders generally allowed. Big Game: Prohibited feeding. Agency: Utah DWR.

Utah Code 23A-5-314: Class B misdemeanor, first-offense fines typically $100 to $500 plus court costs. Municipal wildlife-feeding citation under Title 6: $100 initial, $250 repeat. Civil liability for resulting property damage or vehicle collisions possible.

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

Exotic Pets

Exotic and wild animals are prohibited as pets in West Jordan. Utah Administrative Code R657-3 restricts possession of non-traditional species. Large constrictors, big cats, primates, and venomous reptiles require state permits rarely granted.

Key details: State Rule: Utah Admin Code R657-3. Big Cats: Prohibited. Primates: Prohibited. Large Constrictors: Over 8 ft prohibited. Permits: Rarely issued.

Utah Code 23A-5-311 makes illegal possession a Class B misdemeanor (up to $1,000 fine, 6 months jail); confiscation of the animal and restitution for state relocation costs are typical. Municipal citations add $250 to $500 per animal.

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

Chickens & Livestock

West 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.

Beekeeping

Beekeeping is allowed in West Jordan residential zones subject to setback rules. Hives must be registered with the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food under the Utah Bee Inspection Act.

Key details: State Registration: UDAF annual. Setback: 10-25 ft typical. Flyway Barrier: Required if close to line. Water: On-site required.

Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.

The Bottom Line

West Jordan 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 West 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 West 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.