Animal Ordinances in Billings, MT (2026)
5 verified animal ordinances for Billings, Montana, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Chickens & Livestock
Billings allows a limited number of hens on residential lots subject to coop setbacks and prohibits roosters in most residential zones; larger livestock such as horses, cattle, and goats require agricultural zoning under BMC Title 27 zoning code.
Backyard chickens and livestock in Billings
Some RestrictionsDog Leash Laws
Billings BMC Chapter 4 requires dogs to be leashed or under direct physical control whenever off the owner property; at-large dogs are impounded by Yellowstone County Animal Shelter and the owner pays redemption fees.
Billings dog leash and at-large rules
Some RestrictionsBreed Restrictions
Billings does not impose a breed-specific ban; instead BMC Chapter 4 uses behavior-based dangerous and vicious dog designations that trigger registration, secure enclosure, muzzling, and liability insurance requirements after a hearing.
Billings dangerous-dog rules, no breed ban
Some RestrictionsWildlife Feeding
Billings prohibits intentional feeding of deer and other wildlife that creates nuisance or public-safety hazards in residential areas, supporting Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks rules that discourage habituation of wildlife near urban Yellowstone County neighborhoods.
No feeding deer and wildlife in Billings
Some RestrictionsPet Limits
Billings caps the number of dogs and cats per residential household under BMC Chapter 4, with additional kennel licensing required when owners exceed the limit; commercial kennels need separate zoning approval under BMC Title 27.
Billings household pet number limits
Some RestrictionsLooking for Yellowstone County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Billings city rules.
Animal Ordinances in Yellowstone County →