Animal Hoarding: Gilbert vs Goodyear
How do animal hoarding rules compare between Gilbert, AZ and Goodyear, AZ?
Goodyear has fewer restrictions than Gilbert.
Gilbert, AZ
Maricopa County
Gilbert Town Code Ch. 10 limits residential dogs/cats and treats hoarding under AZ §13-2910 animal cruelty. MCACC investigates with Gilbert Police; kennel permit required for 5+ dogs/cats.
View full Gilbert rules →Goodyear, AZ
Maricopa County
Goodyear Code of Ordinances Section 7-1-4 limits residential properties to no more than four household pets, including no more than one potbellied pig (not exceeding 100 pounds). Accumulating animals beyond this limit constitutes a violation. Maricopa County Animal Care and Control (MCACC) at (602) 506-7387 handles animal welfare investigations including hoarding cases.
View full Goodyear rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gilbert | Goodyear |
|---|---|---|
| Residential limit | 4 dogs/cats without permit | - |
| Kennel Class I | 5-10 animals | - |
| Statute | AZ §13-2910 | - |
| Misdemeanor fine | $2,500 per animal | - |
| Investigator | MCACC + Gilbert PD | - |
| Pet Limit | - | 4 household pets per residence |
| Potbellied Pigs | - | Max 1, under 100 lbs |
| AG District | - | No maximum animal limit |
| State Law | - | ARS §13-2910 animal cruelty |
| Contact | - | (602) 506-7387 MCACC |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gilbert FAQ
How many pets can I have in Gilbert?
Four dogs/cats combined over 4 months old in residential without a permit. A Class I kennel license permits 5-10; over 10 needs Class II kennel zoning.
What triggers a hoarding investigation in Gilbert?
Complaints about animal numbers, odor, or visible neglect. MCACC conducts welfare checks; Gilbert PD brings AZ §13-2910 charges if cruelty is documented.
Goodyear FAQ
How many pets can I have in Goodyear?
Goodyear allows a maximum of four household pets per residential property under Section 7-1-4. This includes dogs, cats, and potbellied pigs combined. Properties in the AG district are exempt from this limit.
Who handles animal hoarding complaints in Goodyear?
Maricopa County Animal Care and Control (MCACC) at (602) 506-7387 investigates animal welfare concerns including hoarding. Code Compliance at (623) 932-3200 addresses nuisance issues like odor and unsanitary conditions.
Can I have more than four pets if I have a large lot in Goodyear?
The four-pet limit applies to all residential properties regardless of lot size, unless the property is zoned AG (Agricultural). Contact Development Services at (623) 932-3200 to verify your property's zoning district.
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