Dog Breeder Licensing Requirements in Arizona
Arizona requires a county kennel permit for 5+ dogs. Kennels with 20+ dogs must allow mandatory inspections. Hunting dog kennels may be exempt from the 20+ inspection requirement.
On This Page
License Types & Requirements in Arizona
County Kennel Permit
Under 20 dogs: inspection upon written complaint only. 20+ dogs: mandatory inspections as condition of permit. Hunting dog exemption for 20+ inspection.
Local Requirements: Cities and towns may have additional pet limit and zoning requirements.
Federal USDA Licensing in Arizona
Federal USDA requirements apply.
The USDA license is separate from and in addition to any state or county license. For complete details, visit our USDA Licensing Guide.
Inspections
Frequency: Complaint-based (<20); mandatory (20+)
Under 20: inspection on written citizen/law enforcement complaint during business hours. 20+: must allow inspections as permit condition.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Knowingly failing to obtain permit within 30 days of notice: Class 2 misdemeanor.
Important: In addition to state penalties, breeders who meet the USDA threshold may face separate federal fines of up to $10,000 per violation per day.
Recordkeeping Requirements
- County permit applications typically require listing all dogs.
Buyer Protections in Arizona
Arizona Pet Purchaser Protection
Limited protections. No comprehensive puppy lemon law.
For more information, visit our Puppy Buyer's Guide.
Resources & Official Links
Governing Authority
County Board of Supervisors (varies)Relevant Laws
Arizona Kennel Permit (A.R.S. § 11-1009) Arizona Dog Definitions (A.R.S. § 11-1001)Useful Tools
Arizona Dept of Agriculture Maricopa County Animal Care USDA APHISFrequently Asked Questions About Dog Breeding in Arizona
How many dogs without a permit in Arizona?
Up to 4. Five or more requires a county kennel permit.
Are inspections mandatory?
Only for 20+ dog kennels. Under 20: complaint-based only.
Puppy lemon law?
Limited protections, not comprehensive.
Neighboring States
Breeding or selling dogs across state lines? Check requirements in neighboring states.