City Pet Regulations

Dogs and cats make great pets for many families; however, without proper care and supervision, they can become a nuisance or a danger to the public. The City has enacted several regulations to help ensure that dogs and cats can be great companions to their owners, while not bothering other residents.

Following are some highlights of the City's Pet Regulations outlined in Section 10.21 of the City Code:

• Dogs and cats are not permitted to run free within the city. They must be on the premises of the owner or on a leash and under a dependable person’s control and obedience.
• The pet’s owner is responsible for removing and disposing of feces left by the animal on any public or private property, including yards and boulevards.
• Dogs and cats are prohibited from habitually barking or crying, chasing vehicles or individuals, or annoying another person who is not on the property of the pet’s owner.
• All dogs age 6 months or older must be licensed. Licenses are good for two years. License applications are available at Shakopee City Hall, 129 S. Holmes Street or through the following link. All license applications must be accompanied by proof of rabies vaccination from a licensed veterinary clinic and a check for the required fee. Questions, call 952-233-9300.
• Any dog found in the City without a tag or running free will be placed in the City Pound. Additionally, any dog or cat committing a nuisance may be seized and impounded.
• Residents with a potentially dangerous or dangerous dog must: post a sign in plain sight warning that there is a dangerous dog on the premises; make sure the dog is registered and has a microchip identification; keep the dog properly enclosed on the owner's property and muzzled and restrained on a leash no more than four feet long when outside of the enclosure.
• Residents who board, breed or sell domestic animals (like cats or dogs) are required to obtain a kennel license when there are more than two domestic animals that are six months of age or older. Kennels are only allowed in the Agricultural Preservation Zone (City Code Section 11.22) and require the approval of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP). Please call 952-233-9300 and ask for the Planning Department to learn more.

Please contact the Shakopee Police Department at 952-233-9400 to report a pet that is a nuisance or danger to the public.