Pet owners in a Colorado city could have their pets removed after the city council passed a law limiting the number of dogs and cats per household.
Starting August 1, Northglenn residents cannot have more than four dogs, cats or a combination of the two.
Anyone who currently owns more pets than the new limit allows can apply for a “previously owned pet exception” before the ordinance takes effect.
The city said that failing to report extra pets by the deadline could result in “enforcement action, including a potential court order requiring pet removal.”
Stock image: Cat and dog sitting together in grass on sunny summer day.
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Why It Matters
There is no statewide law limiting the number of pets per household in Colorado, but various towns in the state have set their own limits. Northglenn said it was the only town in Adams County without a limit.
Other states also leave it up to municipalities to set limits on the number of pets per household. For example, New Jersey has no statewide law, but towns such as Hawthorne and Rahway have placed limits on ownership.
What To Know
The city said the ordinance was introduced after residents raised concerns about excessive noise and waste caused by a high number of pets in some neighborhoods. The city said it did “extensive research and discussion” before passing the law.
Northglenn said it wants to ensure a “compassionate transition.” Anyone who has more pets than allowed under the new limit can complete a form listing each pet’s name, age, sex, breed and the date acquired.
“Our goal is to work with residents to ensure compliance through education and outreach before any enforcement action is taken,” the city said on its website.
Northglenn has a population of around 38,000 and is located about 35 minutes from Denver.
What People Are Saying
City of Northglenn, on its website: “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.”
What Happens Next
The ordinance takes effect August 1. Anyone with questions can contact the Northglenn Police Department by phone at 303-450-8892 or e-mail at police@northglenn.org.
Pet owners should check their state and local laws to see if they are subject to ownership limits.
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