Lakewood vs Long Beach
How do mandatory spay/neuter rules compare between Lakewood, CA and Long Beach, CA?
Lakewood and Long Beach have similar restriction levels.
Lakewood, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County Title 10.20.350 requires all dogs and cats over four months in unincorporated areas to be spayed or neutered, with narrow exceptions for licensed breeders, show animals, and medical waivers documented by a veterinarian.
View full Lakewood rules →Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
LBMC Chapter 6.20 requires dogs and cats over six months to be spayed or neutered, with narrow exceptions for licensed breeders, show animals, and certified service dogs.
View full Long Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lakewood | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Age trigger | Four months and older | - |
| Code section | LACO Title 10.20.350 | LBMC 6.20.020 |
| Intact permit | Available with annual fee | - |
| Enforcing agency | DACC | - |
| Companion rule | Microchip mandate 10.20.355 | - |
| Required age | - | Six months old |
| Permit fee | - | Roughly $100 per year |
| First fine | - | $100 infraction |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lakewood FAQ
Are there exceptions to the spay-neuter rule?
Yes. Show, breeding, and working animals can qualify for an intact permit under Title 10.20.350. Veterinarian-documented medical waivers also exempt animals when sterilization would endanger health.
Does the rule apply in cities within LA County?
It applies directly in unincorporated areas. DACC contract cities often adopt parallel rules; incorporated cities outside DACC service set their own. Check the local animal-services agency for confirmation.
Long Beach FAQ
Does the rule apply to puppies I plan to sell?
Yes once they reach six months. Sell them before that age or obtain a breeder permit and unaltered animal permit through LBACS to keep them legally past six months.
What if my vet says my dog cannot safely be neutered?
Submit a written veterinary exemption letter to LBACS describing the medical condition; staff issue a no-cost medical exemption permit renewed annually with updated documentation.
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