Animal Ordinances in Salem, OR (2026)
5 verified animal ordinances for Salem, Oregon, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Chickens & Livestock
Salem allows up to 12 domesticated birds (chickens, ducks, guinea fowl, quail, doves, pigeons, pheasants) per property for personal use. No permit required, but roosters are prohibited and facilities must not create noise or odor nuisances.
Backyard Poultry Keeping Rules in Salem
Some RestrictionsDog Leash Laws
Salem requires dogs to be on leash or under owner control when off private property. Dogs must be licensed with Marion County and vaccinated against rabies.
Salem Dog Leash Laws
Heavy RestrictionsBreed Restrictions
Salem does not impose breed-specific legislation. Oregon's potentially dangerous dog statutes (ORS 609) address dogs based on behavior, not breed.
Salem Dog Breed Restrictions
Few RestrictionsORS 609.098; ORS 609.035(8)
Oregon law does not impose breed-specific restrictions on dog ownership. ORS 609.098 defines a "dangerous dog" as one that: (a) Without provocation and in an aggressive manner inflicts serious physical injury on a person or kills a person; (b) Acts as a potentially dangerous dog after having previously committed an act as a potentially dangerous dog; or (c) Is used as a weapon in the commission...
Beekeeping
Salem allows beekeeping in residential areas. Oregon's apiary laws require registration with the Oregon Department of Agriculture. Hive placement should minimize impacts on neighbors.
Salem Beekeeping Rules
Few RestrictionsExotic Pets
Oregon regulates exotic pet ownership through ORS 609.305-609.355 and ODFW rules. Exotic animals including primates, large cats, bears, and venomous reptiles are prohibited without permits.
Salem Exotic & Wild Animal Regulations
Some RestrictionsORS 609.305; ORS 609.341; ORS 609.205
ORS 609.305 defines exotic animals as large wild cats, primates, certain canids, bears (except black bears), and crocodilians. ORS 609.341 requires permits for keeping exotic animals. Cities may prohibit exotic animals entirely under ORS 609.205. Maintaining a dangerous dog is criminal negligence; upon conviction the court may determine the disposition of the dog under ORS 609.990, which states...