In These Arizona Cities, It May Be Illegal to Own Over a Certain Number of Dogs

I'm biased, but I think we have the best animal shelter in the entire world.

Maybe that's hyperbole, but I love connecting with them, and I check in with them whenever possible. Local animal adoptions wax and wane, and sometimes there are more owner turn-ins than adoptions, and at times, they're bursting at capacity.

In fact, animal shelters around the country have seen an increase in the number of animals they're trying to house. Many are offering adoption incentives, such as low adoption fees, which is a tactic the Nancy J. Brua Animal Care Center in Sierra Vista often uses.

READ: One Arizona Teen's Devotion to Animals and Ending Cruelty

Adopting a dog is easy for me. My real challenge is not adopting ALL the dogs. If it were up to me, I'd probably own dozens of pooches and still make room for more whenever possible.

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Can I Own All the Dogs in Arizona?

If it weren't for the pesky rules in my household and solidly enforced by my spouse, I would undoubtedly adopt more dogs. Realistically, I know I don't have the space for as many dogs as I'd like, so I treasure the two I have.

Did you know that, depending on where you live, some towns in Arizona limit the number of dogs you're allowed to own? According to doghousefmb.com, how many dogs you get to keep in your home depends on where in Arizona you live.

READ: Arizona Veterinarians Urgent Warning: Vaccinate your dogs now!

The laws in Arizona are much more generous than in some states. For example, in California, you're only allowed to own a total of four dogs. If you have more, you have to apply for a kennel permit.

What's the Limit on How Many Dogs You Can Own in Arizona?

According to GetJerry.com, "While there isn’t a specific law in place for how many dogs you can own in Arizona, there may be restrictions for you to follow depending on your county’s laws, landlord’s requirements, or housing association rules."

Certain Arizona counties and cities impose rules and caps on the number of dogs you can own. For example, in Maricopa County, you're not limited in the number of dogs you can own, but the owner must have the means and resources to care for all of them.

Chandler, Gilbert, and Scottsdale place a limit on the number of dogs you can own that aren't fixed. You're not allowed to have more than three unaltered dogs per household.

Check Local Laws

Before you run to the animal shelter to adopt all the dogs, be sure to check local ordinances, as they vary by city. Of course, if you rent or lease, make sure you're allowed to have a pet in your home.