Animal Ordinances in Riverside, CA (2026)
12 verified animal ordinances for Riverside, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Chickens & Livestock
Riverside allows backyard chickens in most single-family residential zones with restrictions on number and roosters. RMC Title 6 and Title 19 limit hens by lot size and prohibit roosters in most residential districts. Larger livestock are allowed only in agricultural and rural-residential zones.
Riverside Chickens and Livestock Rules
Some RestrictionsDog Leash Laws
Riverside requires dogs to be on a leash no longer than 6 feet when off the owner's property in public. Dogs must be licensed and vaccinated for rabies under Riverside County Animal Services rules. Off-leash areas are limited to posted designated dog parks.
Riverside Dog Leash Laws
Some RestrictionsBreed Restrictions
California Food & Agricultural Code §31683 prohibits local governments from declaring any dog breed 'vicious' solely by breed. Riverside does not ban any breed but enforces dangerous-dog rules based on individual behavior. Mandatory spay/neuter ordinances can be breed-specific under state law.
Riverside Dog Breed Restrictions
Few RestrictionsCalifornia Food and Agricultural Code Section 31683
Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prevent a city or county from adopting or enforcing its own program for the control of potentially dangerous or vicious dogs that may incorporate all, part, or none of this chapter, or that may punish a violation of this chapter as a misdemeanor or may impose a more restrictive program to control potentially dangerous or vicious dogs. Except as prov...
Beekeeping
Beekeeping is permitted in Riverside in most single-family residential zones with setbacks and hive limits. California Food & Agricultural Code §29001+ requires registration of apiaries with the county agricultural commissioner. Colonies must be managed to prevent swarming and nuisance.
Riverside Beekeeping Rules
Some RestrictionsExotic Pets
California Fish & Game Code §2118 and CCR Title 14 §671 prohibit keeping most exotic and non-native wildlife, including ferrets, monkeys, big cats, venomous reptiles, and many parrots. Riverside enforces state law; violations can result in animal seizure and fines. A CDFW permit is required for exempted uses.
Riverside Exotic Pet Rules
Heavy RestrictionsWildlife Feeding
California Fish & Game Code §251.1 prohibits harassing wildlife, and intentionally feeding large mammals such as deer, coyotes, bears, or mountain lions is strongly discouraged and can trigger nuisance abatement. Riverside residents should also avoid attracting wildlife via unsecured trash and pet food.
Riverside Wildlife Feeding Rules
Some RestrictionsLivestock
Livestock such as horses, cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs are permitted only in Riverside's agricultural (A) and rural-residential (RR, RC) zones on parcels meeting minimum lot-size and setback standards. Urban single-family zones prohibit larger livestock; backyard hens are regulated separately.
Riverside Livestock Rules
Heavy RestrictionsAnimal Hoarding
Riverside Municipal Code Chapter 6 prohibits keeping animals in numbers or conditions that cause suffering, neglect, or unsanitary premises. Animal Services investigates hoarding complaints and may seize animals when welfare standards are not met.
Riverside Animal Hoarding and Cruelty Limits
Heavy RestrictionsPet Limits
Riverside zoning generally limits households to a combined total of dogs and cats before kennel permits are required. Larger numbers require a kennel or cattery permit, neighbor notice, and zoning compliance.
Riverside Household Pet Limits and Kennel Permits
Some RestrictionsMandatory Spay/Neuter
Riverside requires most dogs and cats over four months old to be spayed or neutered, with exceptions for licensed breeders, show animals, and medical waivers. The rule reduces shelter intake and is enforced through licensing.
Riverside Mandatory Spay and Neuter Rules
Some RestrictionsMicrochipping
Dogs and cats licensed in Riverside must be microchipped, and shelters must scan every animal before adoption or release. Microchips speed reunification and are checked during licensing renewals.
Riverside Pet Microchipping Requirements
Some RestrictionsCoyote Management
Riverside follows a non-lethal coyote management plan emphasizing hazing, secure trash, and removal of attractants. Lethal trapping is reserved for animals showing aggression toward people, and feeding coyotes is prohibited.
Riverside Coyote Management and Hazing
Some RestrictionsLooking for Riverside County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Riverside city rules.
Animal Ordinances in Riverside County →