The maximum number of cats or dogs you can own in the state of Rhode Island depends on where you live and the type of property you have. This means that the ownership of dogs, cats, and other animals is regulated by individual municipalities. Each municipality in the Ocean State has specific rules governing the number of dogs or cats residents can own. Most Rhode Island cities limit households to no more than three cats and three dogs. So, if you're considering getting a cat or a dog, or maybe adding another furry friend to your family, it's important to know the laws and regulations around pet ownership in your municipality. This article lists some Rhode Island cities, towns, and the number of pets allowed per household therein.
Providence, RI
In the City of Providence, the number of dogs residents can own is limited to three. Anyone wishing to exceed this limit must obtain an additional dog permit at a fee of $25. According to Sec. 4-37.2 of Providence's animal ordinance, no resident is permitted to keep more than three cats in any part of any dwelling house within the city. All dogs are required to be licensed in Providence while cats are not. Furthermore, Providence has a leash law requiring dogs to be kept on a leash not exceeding six feet in length and no more than three 3 dogs may be walked by one person.
Warwick, RI
The City of Warwick limits households to three dogs and three cats. However, Warwick residents can obtain a permit from the board of public safety to own more than the allowed numbers. Spaying and neutering of dogs and cats is mandatory in Warwick, RI. A license is required to keep an unaltered cat or dog in the city. Unless under the control of a competent person, a dog must not be allowed to be off the premises or property of its owner, according to Warwick's animals ordinance.
Cranston, RI
In the City of Cranston, each household is limited to two dogs. A kennel license is required to own more than two dogs in the city. However, before a resident is issued a license, an animal control officer will inspect the applicant's premises and determine that keeping more than two dogs therein will not tend to create a nuisance. The maximum number of cats allowed per residence in the city of Cranston is four. Cranston has a pooper scooper law requiring all animal owners to promptly remove and properly dispose of any solid waste left by their animal on any public or property owned by the city.
Pawtucket, RI
The City of Pawtucket in Providence County, Rhode Island, limits each residence to three licensed dogs. A permit must be obtained from the Director of Public Safety to own more than three dogs in Pawtucket. The number of cats you can own in Pawtucket is not restricted but pet owners are required to comply with the city's nuisance law. Pitbull dogs are banned in the city of Pawtucket and Rottweilers are restricted, according to the city's animal ordinance.
East Providence, RI
East Providence residents must obtain a special permit from the animal control officer to keep more than three dogs in their residences. Owning more than three dogs in East Providence without obtaining a permit can result in a fine of up to $120 and the impoundment of any dog in excess of three. However, there is no limit on the number of cats you can own in East Providence. All pet dogs and can cats living within the city limits are required by law to be spayed or neutered.
Coventry, RI
In the Town of Coventry, RI, there is a limit on the number of licensed dogs that residents can own. This limit is set at three dogs per household. However, there is no restriction on the number of cats that residents can have. It is important to note that the Town Code does require responsible pet ownership, particularly with regard to cats and ferrets. These pets must be kept in a way that is safe, sanitary, and healthy for other residents. This ensures that all pets and residents can coexist in a harmonious and healthy environment.
North Kingstown, RI
In the Town of North Kingstown, dog ownership comes with certain responsibilities. While households are permitted to have up to five dogs, owners must be diligent in cleaning up after their pets. It is required by law for dog owners to remove any feces left by their dogs in public areas, as well as on private property that is not owned or occupied by them. However, cat owners have more freedom as there is no limit on the number of cats one can own, as long as they do not cause a public disturbance.
Other Rhode Island Municipalities
- Town of Johnston, RI - No more than three licensed pets
- Town of Portsmouth, RI - Three licensed dogs allowed. No limit on cats
- Town of Smithfield, RI - Three dogs per household. No limit on cats
- Town of Barrington, RI - No more than 3 dogs allowed. No limit on cats
- Burrillville, RI - Two licensed dogs per dwelling unit. No limit on cats
- East Greenwich, RI - No more than 3 dogs per residence. No limit on cats
- Warren, RI - No more than 3 dogs allowed. No limit on cats
- Scituate, RI - A permit is required to own more than 2 dogs. No limit on cats
- Glocester, RI - A maximum of 3 dogs per residence. No limit on cats
