Guide to Laws for Pet Owners in the Los Angeles area

Laws related to pets are made at both the state and local levels. Be sure to see our Guide to Laws for Pet Owners in California.

1. Bringing pets to various locations

Can I bring my pet to a restaurant?

In L.A. County, restaurant owners are authorized (but not required) to allow dogs in outdoor
dining areas, following certain guidelines.¹Long Beach has its own health code, but follows the same policy as the rest of L.A. County; see here.

In the rest of California, restaurant owners are authorized to do so unless the city or county has specifically prohibited it.²CA Health & Safety Code Sec. 114259.6

Can I bring my dog to the beach?

In LA County, you can’t bring your dog (or any other pet) to the beach except for Belmont Shore Dog Beach.³LA County Municipal Code Sec. 17.12.290

Note: See more about beaches here.

2. Some rules for the city of Los Angeles

Is it actually illegal if my dog poops outside and I just leave it there?

Yes. You need to pick up their poop.⁴LAMC 53.49

What other rules do I need to know about my pets?

• All dogs over 4 months old must be licensed, spayed/neutered, and vaccinated against rabies.⁵LAMC Section 53
• All cats must be spayed or neutered.⁶LAMC section 53

How many pets am I allowed to have?

You may only have a maximum of 3 dogs and 3 cats per household, unless you get a kennel permit.⁷LAMC section 53 Other cities and areas have various limits.

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