Pet Limits: Los Angeles vs New York
How do pet limits rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and New York, NY?
New York has fewer restrictions than Los Angeles.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County Title 10.20.220 caps unincorporated single-family residences at three dogs over four months and five cats without a kennel or cattery permit. Higher counts require DACC permitting and zoning compatibility under Title 22.
View full Los Angeles rules →New York, NY
New York County
New York City sets no specific cap on the number of pets per dwelling. Crowding, odor, or unsanitary conditions are enforced under NYC Health Code Title 24 §161, and severe cases can escalate to cruelty charges under New York Agriculture and Markets Law §353.
View full New York rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | New York |
|---|---|---|
| Dog limit | Three over four months | - |
| Cat limit | Five per residence | - |
| Code section | LACO Title 10.20.220 | - |
| Permit option | Kennel or cattery permit | - |
| Zoning overlay | LACO Title 22 | - |
| Numeric cap | - | None citywide |
| Nuisance authority | - | Health Code §161 |
| Lease limits | - | Set by landlord or board |
| Cruelty backstop | - | Ag & Markets Law §353 |
| Lead agency | - | DOHMH and HPD |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can I have more than three dogs with a kennel permit?
Yes. DACC issues kennel permits for higher counts, subject to zoning under Title 22, neighbor notice, and inspection. Most residential zones still cap kennels well below commercial-scale operations.
Do these limits apply to puppies and kittens?
Limits count animals over four months. Litters under four months do not count, but once they hit the age threshold, owners must rehome, sterilize and license, or apply for a kennel or cattery permit.
New York FAQ
How many dogs can I legally own in a NYC apartment?
City law sets no number. Lease and co-op rules usually cap dogs at one or two and may restrict breeds. Health Code §161 only kicks in if conditions become unsanitary or create nuisance.
Can my landlord enforce a stricter pet limit than the city?
Yes. Private leases and co-op or condo bylaws may impose any pet rules they choose, including outright bans, subject to disability accommodations under federal Fair Housing Act and NYC Human Rights Law.
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