How many animals can I have on my property?
Typically a zoning ordinance that controls pet ownership will restrict pets based on where your property is located, what type of animal you have, and what condition the property and animals are in. Zoning laws in most areas allow a reasonable number of domestic pets like dogs or cats on property, with different rules for farm animals or exotic pets. If you are considering getting an unusual or exotic pet, or have accumulated a large number of domesticated pets, you should refer to your local zoning laws regarding pets.
Restrictions Based on the Type of Animal
A zoning ordinance that restricts property owners from housing a specific type of animal can vary based on the nature of the animal and the location of the property. For example, a city zoning law will likely prevent a home or business from housing farm animals including chickens, pigs, or rabbits for either personal or professional purposes, whereas the same type of restriction will not exist in smaller towns or rural properties. Similarly, although any owner of an exotic or dangerous pet will likely need some sort of local government approval, an owner of a wild or unnatural pet will likely have less restrictions to overcome if they live in a sparsely populated area. Zoning ordinances are, in part, designed to maintain uniformity and safety throughout a neighborhood, so in cities or towns with dense human populations the local zoning ordinance will be more likely to restrict ownership of unusual, large, or dangerous animals.
Restrictions Based on the Number of Animals
Zoning ordinances can also influence how many animals are allowed on the property. While the rules for the number of animals will depend on where the property is located and the type of animal, they will also depend on the condition of the property in regards to the animals being held there. In fact, zoning ordinances restricting the number of animals housed on one property are not only designed to prevent a piece of property from becoming a nuisance due to smells or sounds, but also to prevent negligent pet owners or animal hoarders from amassing a quantity of animals that results in unsafe conditions for them. Even parcels of property located out in the country can be subject to zoning ordinances that prevent an unreasonable accumulation of animals because doing so would create unsafe conditions. The more large and dangerous an animal is, the fewer you will be allowed to keep on your property.
Know the Zoning Law
If you would like to purchase and own an exotic or dangerous pet, or have a large number of animals on your property you should check the local zoning ordinance in your area to make sure you are not in a violation of any zoning law. Zoning laws frequently govern animal ownership, particularly the more unusual the circumstances. If your intended pet ownership stands in violation of a zoning ordinance you may request an exception if you are able to show the condition of the neighborhood and purpose of the zoning law is not negatively affected by your request. If you have concerns about how a local zoning ordinance will impact your pet ownership, consult with a local attorney who can assist you.