Animal Ordinances in Tempe, AZ (2026)
7 verified animal ordinances for Tempe, Arizona, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Chickens & Livestock
Tempe allows backyard chickens in residential zones with restrictions. The city's zoning code and animal ordinances regulate the keeping of livestock and poultry. Hens are generally permitted with limits on numbers; roosters are prohibited due to noise. Coops must meet setback requirements and sanitation standards. Larger livestock requires agricultural or rural zoning.
Tempe Chickens and Livestock Regulations
Some RestrictionsDog Leash Laws
Tempe requires dogs to be on a leash no longer than 6 feet when off the owner's property. Dogs must be under the handler's control at all times in public spaces. Off-leash dogs are permitted only in designated dog parks.
Tempe Dog Leash Laws
Heavy RestrictionsBreed Restrictions
Tempe does not enforce breed-specific legislation. No dog breeds are banned within city limits. However, dogs classified as dangerous or vicious based on behavior are subject to additional requirements regardless of breed.
Tempe Dog Breed Restrictions
Few RestrictionsBeekeeping
Tempe allows residential beekeeping with certain restrictions. Hives must maintain setbacks from property lines and neighboring structures. Water sources must be provided to prevent bees from seeking water on neighboring properties.
Tempe Beekeeping Regulations
Some RestrictionsExotic Pets
Tempe follows Arizona Game and Fish Department regulations on exotic and wild animals. Many exotic species require state permits, and some are prohibited entirely. Venomous reptiles, large cats, and primates are generally not allowed as pets.
Tempe Exotic Pet Regulations
Heavy RestrictionsWildlife Feeding
Tempe addresses wildlife feeding through its nuisance and animal control provisions. The city's desert and urban lake environment (Tempe Town Lake) attracts various wildlife. Feeding wildlife can create nuisance conditions. The Arizona Game and Fish Department regulates wildlife interactions statewide. Property owners should secure trash and avoid feeding coyotes, javelina, and other desert wildlife.
Tempe Wildlife Feeding Regulations
Some RestrictionsAnimal Hoarding
Tempe enforces AZ §13-2910 animal cruelty for hoarding. Tempe City Code Ch. 8 limits number of dogs/cats in residential zones; MCACC investigates complaints alongside Tempe PD.
animals/animal-hoarding
Heavy RestrictionsAriz. Rev. Stat. § 13-2910 (Cruelty to Animals)
A person commits cruelty to animals if the person does any of the following: 1. Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly subjects any animal under the person's custody or control to cruel neglect or abandonment. 2. Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly fails to provide medical attention necessary to prevent protracted suffering to any animal under the person's custody or control. ...
Looking for Maricopa County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Tempe city rules.
Animal Ordinances in Maricopa County →