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Animal Ordinances in Takoma Park, MD (2026)

7 verified animal ordinances for Takoma Park, Maryland, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Chickens & Livestock

Up to six hens allowed without a special permit, reflecting Takoma Park's progressive urban agriculture stance. Roosters prohibited. Other livestock generally not permitted.

Takoma Park Chicken and Livestock Rules

Few Restrictions

Dog Leash Laws

Takoma Park requires dogs on leash in all parks including Sligo Creek Trail under Montgomery County Code Chapter 5. Owners must clean up pet waste. No off-leash dog parks within city limits.

Takoma Park Dog Leash Laws

Heavy Restrictions

Breed Restrictions

No breed-specific bans exist. Maryland HB 73 (2014) eliminated breed-specific liability statewide. All owners face the same negligence standard. Dogs are classified dangerous by behavior, not breed.

Takoma Park Dog Breed Restrictions

Few Restrictions

Beekeeping

Takoma Park permits residential beekeeping under Montgomery County regulations. Maryland requires registration with the Department of Agriculture. The city actively supports pollinator-friendly practices.

Takoma Park Beekeeping Regulations

Few Restrictions

Maryland Apiary Inspection Regulations 15.07.01

Apiary Inspection Maintaining healthy honey bee colonies is very important to Maryland agriculture. Crops valued in excess of $40 million require or benefit from honey bee pollination in the State. Managed colonies are increasingly important since most wild honey bees have died due to parasitic mites. Apiary inspectors work with beekeepers to help them maintain healthy colonies. Inspectors visi...

Exotic Pets

Takoma Park follows COMAR 15.11.15 and Montgomery County Code Chapter 5 restrictions on exotic pets. Large cats, bears, venomous snakes, and primates are prohibited without state permits.

Takoma Park Exotic Pet Regulations

Heavy Restrictions

Wildlife Feeding

Montgomery County prohibits intentionally feeding deer, which are overpopulated in the Sligo Creek watershed. Takoma Park participates in county deer management programs to protect native ecosystems.

Takoma Park Wildlife Feeding Restrictions

Some Restrictions

Livestock

Takoma Park prohibits livestock including horses, cattle, goats, and swine on residential property. No agricultural zoning exists. Backyard hens (up to 8, no roosters) are permitted.

Takoma Park Livestock Regulations

Heavy Restrictions

Looking for Montgomery County county-wide rules?

County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Takoma Park city rules.

Animal Ordinances in Montgomery County