Pet Limits: Brentwood vs Richmond
How do pet limits rules compare between Brentwood, CA and Richmond, CA?
Richmond has fewer restrictions than Brentwood.
Brentwood, CA
Contra Costa County
Brentwood residential properties are typically limited to 3-4 dogs and similar numbers of cats per household under BMC Chapter 6.04 and Contra Costa County Code. Exceeding the limit requires a kennel permit. Agricultural-zoned parcels generally have no pet-number limits.
View full Brentwood rules →Richmond, CA
Contra Costa County
Richmond residential properties may keep up to 4 dogs and 4 cats per household without a kennel permit. Households with more than this limit may require a kennel or multiple-animal permit through Contra Costa County Animal Services. Cats must be spayed/neutered if outdoor-access per county ordinance.
View full Richmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Brentwood | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Typical dog limit | 3-4 adult dogs | - |
| Typical cat limit | 3-4 adult cats | - |
| Kennel threshold | 5+ dogs (permit required) | - |
| Ag zones | No numeric limit | - |
| Enforcement | CCAS + Code Enforcement | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Brentwood FAQ
How many dogs can I own in Brentwood?
Generally 3-4 adult dogs (over 4 months) per household without a kennel permit. Additional dogs require application to Brentwood Planning for kennel authorization, which includes zoning review and neighbor notification.
Do foster dogs count toward the limit?
Often yes, unless you're affiliated with a licensed 501(c)(3) rescue that has a kennel or foster-network permit. Confirm your status with Contra Costa Animal Services before fostering multiple animals.
Richmond FAQ
I have 5 cats. Am I in violation?
Likely yes under standard limits. Contact Contra Costa County Animal Services about a multi-cat permit, which allows compliant households to keep more.
Do rabbits count toward my pet limit?
No, rabbits and other small caged pets are not counted toward the 4-dog/4-cat household limit.
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