Animal Hoarding: Mesa vs Tempe
How do animal hoarding rules compare between Mesa, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Mesa has fewer restrictions than Tempe.
Mesa, AZ
Maricopa County
Animal hoarding in Mesa addressed through keeping limits and Mesa Animal Control. ARS 13-2910 for cruelty.
View full Mesa rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe enforces AZ §13-2910 animal cruelty for hoarding. Tempe City Code Ch. 8 limits number of dogs/cats in residential zones; MCACC investigates complaints alongside Tempe PD.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mesa | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Animal Limits | Per code | - |
| Animal Control | (480) 644-2268 | - |
| Cruelty | ARS 13-2910 | - |
| Code Enforcement | (480) 644-2268 | - |
| Residential limit | - | ~5 dogs/cats typical |
| Cruelty statute | - | AZ §13-2910 |
| Forfeiture | - | §13-2910.07 boarding |
| Misdemeanor max | - | $2,500 + jail |
| Investigator | - | MCACC + Tempe PD |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mesa FAQ
How many pets?
Per code. Contact (480) 644-2268.
How to report?
Mesa Animal Control at (480) 644-2268.
Penalties?
Code fines plus ARS 13-2910.
Tempe FAQ
How do I report suspected hoarding in Tempe?
Call Maricopa County Animal Care & Control at 602-506-7387 or Tempe PD non-emergency 480-350-8311. Both coordinate on welfare and criminal investigations.
Can hoarded animals be taken from the owner?
Yes. AZ §13-2910.07 allows forfeiture if the owner fails to post bond for boarding within 30 days of seizure. Animals then go to MCACC for adoption or rescue placement.
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