Pet Limits: Phoenix vs Tempe
How do pet limits rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Phoenix and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix City Code Chapter 8 limits residences to five dogs and five cats over three months old per household. Owners with more must obtain a commercial kennel or cattery permit and meet stricter zoning, sanitation, and humane care standards under Chapter 36.
View full Phoenix rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Maricopa County zoning limits households in unincorporated areas to a small number of dogs and cats absent a kennel permit. Inside incorporated cities like Phoenix, Mesa, or Scottsdale, each city's own pet-limit ordinance applies instead of the county rule.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Dog limit | Five per household | - |
| Cat limit | Five per household | - |
| Age threshold | Older than three months | Older than three months |
| Over-limit option | Kennel or cattery permit | Kennel or cattery permit |
| Code source | Phoenix Code Ch. 8 | - |
| Applies to | - | Unincorporated county only |
| Typical limit | - | Four to five dogs and cats |
| Enforcement | - | Planning and MCACC |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
How many dogs and cats can I keep in Phoenix?
Five dogs and five cats over three months old per household. Animals younger than that do not count. To exceed the limit you need a commercial kennel or cattery permit, which requires zoning approval and inspections.
Do foster pets count toward the limit?
Generally no, when fostered through a licensed rescue under an MCACC partnership. Always confirm the foster agreement in writing and keep records, because animal-control officers may ask for proof during a complaint inspection.
Tempe FAQ
Does the county pet limit apply if I live in Phoenix or Mesa?
No. Once a parcel is inside an incorporated city, that city's pet-limit ordinance applies instead. Phoenix caps at five dogs and five cats; Mesa, Scottsdale, and other cities have their own slightly different limits.
Do foster pets count toward the limit?
Generally no, when fostered through a licensed rescue under an MCACC partnership. Always confirm the foster agreement in writing and keep records, because animal-control officers may ask for proof during a complaint inspection.
Compare other topics
See how Phoenix and Tempe compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool