Pet owner
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.
Related Pages
- Guide to Animal Rights
- streets & public spaces
- Guide to Laws for Beachgoers
References