Colorado pet owners in the small city of Northglenn face a difficult decision—reduce their pet count to meet new limits, or apply for exemptions before summer’s end when authorities might begin seizing excess animals.
At a Glance
- Northglenn, Colorado has implemented a new ordinance limiting households to four dogs, four cats, or a combination totaling four pets.
- Residents currently exceeding the limit must file for a “previously owned pet exception” before August 1, 2024.
- The city will enforce compliance after the deadline, potentially including court orders for pet removal.
- The initiative responds to community concerns about noise and waste from households with numerous pets.
- Northglenn was previously the only municipality in Adams County without pet limits.
Understanding the New Pet Ordinance
The Northglenn City Council recently passed a new pet ordinance that will take effect on August 1, 2024. The regulation limits households in this Denver-area city of approximately 38,000 residents to a maximum of four dogs, four cats, or a combination not exceeding four animals total. This decision brings Northglenn in line with surrounding communities, as it was previously the only municipality in Adams County without pet restrictions. The council enacted the measure after research and community discussion highlighted issues related to pet overpopulation in certain neighborhoods.
For residents currently housing more than the allowed number of pets, the city has created a “previously owned pet exception” process. This provision allows households to maintain their existing animals by filing the necessary documentation before the August 1 deadline. After this date, those found in violation of the ordinance may face enforcement actions, potentially including court-ordered removal of excess pets. City officials emphasize they plan to focus on education and outreach before pursuing more stringent enforcement measures.
Balancing Community Needs with Pet Ownership
The new regulations aim to address specific community concerns while acknowledging the importance of pets in many households. City representatives have emphasized that the ordinance responds directly to resident complaints about excessive noise and waste management issues in neighborhoods with high concentrations of pets. By implementing reasonable limits, Northglenn hopes to create a more balanced environment that respects both pet owners and non-pet owners alike.
“Pets bring joy and companionship to our lives, but they also come with responsibilities. By establishing reasonable pet limits, we aim to ensure that everyone living in Northglenn, both pet owners and non-pet owners, can enjoy their homes and neighborhoods.”, atests City of Northglenn, on its website.
While some residents have expressed concern about potential enforcement measures, the city maintains that the ordinance was developed “at the request of residents and after extensive research and discussion.” Officials hope the grandfathering provision will minimize disruption for households already exceeding the limits, while preventing future over-concentration of pets. According to the city website, the measure “limits the number of household pets allowed per residence to maintain a balanced and comfortable environment for all community members.”
Pet Limits Across America
Northglenn’s new ordinance reflects a common approach to pet management found in municipalities across the United States. Many cities and counties maintain similar restrictions, though specific limits vary widely. For example, neighboring Arvada allows three dogs and four cats, with a combined maximum of four animals, while Colorado Springs permits four dogs and four cats per household. Other cities like Junction City, Kansas allow up to six pets, while Stratford, New Jersey limits households to four total animals including not just cats and dogs but also rabbits and reptiles.
Some communities have developed more flexible approaches to pet limits. McAllen, Texas allows up to eight dogs or cats but offers an “excess animal permit” for those wanting additional pets. Moreover, McAllen exempts residents who partner with local animal welfare nonprofits from permit requirements, creating a pathway for responsible pet enthusiasts to maintain larger numbers of animals. For health-conscious pet owners in any jurisdiction, understanding local regulations is essential to avoid potential fines, penalties, or more serious enforcement actions.
