Pet Limits: El Cerrito vs Martinez
How do pet limits rules compare between El Cerrito, CA and Martinez, CA?
El Cerrito has fewer restrictions than Martinez.
El Cerrito, CA
Contra Costa County
Unincorporated Contra Costa County generally allows up to 4 dogs and 4 cats per residential parcel without a kennel permit. Exceeding these limits or operating a boarding/breeding business requires a kennel permit from Animal Services and proper zoning.
View full El Cerrito rules →Martinez, CA
Contra Costa County
Martinez limits residential properties to a maximum of three dogs and three cats over four months of age per single-family dwelling. Kennels, catteries, or properties exceeding these limits require a special use permit from the Community Development Department. Licensed rescues and foster programs may apply for exceptions through Contra Costa County Animal Services.
View full Martinez rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cerrito | Martinez |
|---|---|---|
| Dog Limit | 4 without kennel permit | - |
| Cat Limit | 4 without kennel permit | - |
| Kennel Permit | Required for excess / commercial | - |
| Rescue Foster | May be exempt with registered 501(c)(3) | - |
| HOA Limits | May be stricter | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Cerrito FAQ
I want 6 dogs on my Alamo property — what do I need?
You would need a kennel permit from Animal Services, which typically requires agricultural zoning or a conditional-use permit, plus adequate kenneling, noise control, and sanitation.
Do service animals count toward pet limits?
No. ADA-qualified service animals and FHA-qualified assistance animals are not counted toward the numerical pet limits.
Martinez FAQ
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