Animal Ordinances in Santa Maria, CA (2026)

4 verified animal ordinances for Santa Maria, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Dog Leash Laws

Santa Maria requires dogs to be leashed when off the owner's property. Dogs must be under control at all times. Santa Barbara County Animal Services enforces animal ordinances.

Santa Maria Dog Leash Laws

Heavy Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Breed Restrictions

Santa Maria does not have breed-specific dog restrictions. California state law does not permit breed-specific legislation by local governments. Dogs are regulated based on behavior.

Santa Maria Dog Breed Restrictions

Few Restrictions

Cal. Food and Agricultural Code Section 31683

Potentially Dangerous and Vicious Dogs [31601 - 31683] ( Chapter 9 added by Stats. 1989, Ch. 761, Sec. 1. ) ARTICLE 5. Miscellaneous [31681 - 31683] ( Article 5 added by Stats. 1989, Ch. 761, Sec. 1. ) 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 incorpor...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Beekeeping

Beekeeping is allowed in Santa Maria with certain restrictions. Hives should be positioned with consideration for neighbors and flyway barriers may be required.

Santa Maria Beekeeping Rules

Some Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Exotic Pets

Exotic pet ownership in Santa Maria is governed by California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations. Many species require permits or are prohibited entirely.

Santa Maria Exotic & Wild Animal Regulations

Some Restrictions

CDFW Restricted Species Permits (14 CCR § 671)

Restricted Species Permits are required for every person who imports, exports, transports, or possesses any restricted animal listed in Section 671(c), Title 14, of the California Code of Regulations (CCR) (PDF) . Entitlements Fee Description Restricted Species Permit Application/Amendment New: $155.53 Renewal and Amendment: $80.60 Required for every new permit, permit renewal or amendment of a...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Looking for Santa Barbara County county-wide rules?

County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Santa Maria city rules.

Animal Ordinances in Santa Barbara County →