Pet Limits: Kirkland vs Seattle
How do pet limits rules compare between Kirkland, WA and Seattle, WA?
Kirkland and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Kirkland, WA
King County
King County Code Title 11 limits residential households to a small number of dogs and cats; exceeding the cap requires a kennel, cattery, or hobby license issued by Regional Animal Services of King County.
View full Kirkland rules →Seattle, WA
King County
SMC 9.25.082 caps each Seattle household at three small animals (dogs/cats over eight weeks) without an SAS kennel license. Larger numbers require zoning approval and inspection. Hobby breeders need a separate permit.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kirkland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Code | KCC Title 11 | SMC 9.25.082 |
| Agency | RASKC | - |
| Over-limit license | Hobby kennel/cattery | - |
| Zoning tie-in | KCC Title 21A | - |
| Limit | - | 3 small animals |
| Age threshold | - | Over 8 weeks |
| License needed | - | Kennel for 4+ |
| Fee | - | $50-100 annual |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kirkland FAQ
How many pets can I keep in unincorporated King County?
KCC Title 11 caps household pets; over the limit you need a hobby kennel or cattery license from Regional Animal Services of King County.
Do cities follow the county pet limit?
Most King County cities set their own limits but contract animal control to RASKC; check your specific city code for exact numbers.
Seattle FAQ
Can I keep four cats in my Seattle house?
Only with an SAS kennel license. Without it, the limit is three. Apply through Seattle Animal Shelter and expect a property inspection before approval.
Do puppies count toward the three-pet limit?
Only after eight weeks old. Litters under eight weeks are exempt, recognizing weaning and adoption timelines for nursing puppies and kittens.
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