6 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 4 cities in DeKalb County, Georgia.
Verified from official government sources
DeKalb County Code Chapter 5 allows backyard hens on lots of sufficient size with coop setbacks. Roosters restricted. Livestock limited to agricultural or large-lot zones.
DeKalb County requires all dogs to be kept on a leash or under direct physical control when off the owner's property. Dogs at large are prohibited and subject to impoundment. DeKalb County Animal Services: 404-294-2996. Georgia's Responsible Dog Ownership Law (GA Code §4-8-20+) governs dangerous dogs.
DeKalb County has no breed-specific legislation. Georgia's Responsible Dog Ownership Law (GA Code §4-8-20+) creates a behavioral-based dangerous dog registry administered by DeKalb County Animal Services. Only individual dogs may be declared dangerous based on behavior, not breed.
Urban beekeeping is permitted in unincorporated DeKalb County in residential zones subject to Zoning Ordinance (Ch. 27) standards and Georgia Department of Agriculture registration. Hive setbacks from property lines and swarm management required. Contact Planning and Sustainability: 404-371-2155.
Exotic wild animals (Class 1) are prohibited in Georgia without a DNR permit (GA Code §27-5-4). DeKalb County Animal Services (404-294-2996) and the Georgia DNR Wildlife Division enforce exotic animal regulations. Keeping dangerous wild animals in residential areas is not permitted.
DeKalb County prohibits intentional feeding of deer and coyotes in unincorporated areas. Georgia DNR enforces statewide rules against feeding wildlife that creates nuisance conditions. Bird feeders permitted with residential use.
4 cities in DeKalb County have their own animal ordinances rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
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DeKalb County Ordinance Hub →