Animal Ordinances in White Plains, NY: What Residents Actually Need to Know
If you live in White Plains or are thinking about moving there, animal ordinances are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. White Plains has 6 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of animal ordinances, and some of them might surprise you.
Exotic Pets
NY ECL §11-0512 bans wild animals as pets statewide. White Plains prohibits keeping of wild, dangerous, or exotic animals within city limits.
Key details: State Law: ECL §11-0512. Banned: Wild/dangerous species. Primates: Prohibited. Venomous: Prohibited. Enforcement: State + local.
State violation plus local fines; animal seizure and removal to licensed facility.
This is one of the stricter rules in White Plains's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
Beekeeping
Beekeeping permitted in White Plains subject to zoning. NY Ag & Markets Article 15 requires annual state registration. Hives must be sited away from property lines and maintained responsibly.
Key details: Allowed: Yes, with zoning compliance. State Registration: Annual, required. State Law: Ag & Markets Art. 15. Setback: From property lines.
Nuisance hives: abatement order. Failure to register with state: Ag & Markets penalties.
Chickens & Livestock
White Plains prohibits chickens, roosters, and livestock in residential zones. City is urban/suburban and not zoned for agricultural use. No backyard chicken ordinance.
Key details: Chickens: Not permitted. Roosters: Prohibited. Livestock: Prohibited. Zoning: No ag districts. Fine: $250+/day.
Keeping prohibited livestock: zoning violation, $250+ fine per day until removed.
This is one of the stricter rules in White Plains's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
Breed Restrictions
No breed-specific bans in White Plains. NY Agriculture & Markets Law §107(5) preempts municipalities from enacting breed-specific legislation. Dangerous dog determinations handled case-by-case.
Key details: Breed Bans: Preempted by state. State Law: Ag & Markets §107(5). Dangerous Dogs: Ag & Markets §123. Insurance: May still require.
Dangerous dog: court-ordered muzzling, confinement, or euthanasia. Owner liability for medical costs.
The rules around breed restrictions in White Plains lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.
Dog Leash Laws
White Plains City Code Chapter 4-6 requires dogs to be leashed when off owner's property. Annual dog licensing and rabies vaccination required per NY Ag & Markets Law.
Key details: Leash: Required off-premises. Max Length: 6 feet. Licensing: Annual, city clerk. Cleanup: Required. Fine: $25–$250.
Leash/at-large violations: $25–$250 fine. Repeat offenses escalate. Failure to license: additional penalty per Ag & Markets §118.
Wildlife Feeding
Feeding deer, bears, and other wildlife discouraged and may violate NY DEC regulations. White Plains prohibits feeding that creates nuisance or attracts rodents/pests.
Key details: Deer Feeding: Banned by DEC. Bear Feeding: Banned by DEC. Bird Feeders: Allowed if maintained. Rodent Attractant: Prohibited.
Nuisance feeding: $100–$500 fine. DEC deer feeding: separate state penalty.
The Bottom Line
White Plains is tougher than many cities when it comes to animal ordinances. Out of the 6 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in White Plains, 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 White Plains's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.