District Of Columbia § 8-1809 - Animal hobby permit.
Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 8-1809 — Animal hobby permit., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8-1809. Animal hobby permit.
8-1809No person shall own or keep 7 or more mammals, larger than a guinea pig and over the age of 4 months, without obtaining an animal hobby permit: Except, that this section shall not apply to a licensed pet shop, licensed veterinary hospital, circus or traveling exhibition.
An owner of 7 or more mammals shall before July 1st of each year or within 10 days of acquiring 7 or more mammals obtain the permit required by this section.
An owner applying for an animal hobby permit shall fully describe the kind and number of mammals to be maintained and the premises where the mammals are to be kept.
No animal hobby permit shall be issued to:
An owner unless the owner has obtained the necessary animal licenses as required by law;
An owner who maintains mammals for commercial purposes. For purposes of this section, “commercial purposes” shall not include the sale of offspring if such sales are occasional and are not the primary purpose for maintaining the mammals.
The Mayor shall collect the fees and issue the permits as provided in this section.
A holder of an animal hobby permit shall provide his mammals with appropriate veterinary care. A holder of an animal hobby permit shall maintain the premises and enclosures where the mammals are kept in a clean and sanitary condition.
A holder of an animal hobby permit shall not permit objectionable odors or noises to disturb the comfort or quiet of any neighborhood. A holder of an animal hobby permit shall not permit a mammal to commit a nuisance on public space or property owned by others.
The Mayor may revoke an animal hobby permit for failure to comply with the provisions of this section.
Annotations
Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 8-1809
What does D.C. Code § 8-1809 cover?
Section 8-1809 ("Animal hobby permit.") is part of the D.C. Code, the codified statutory law of District Of Columbia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite District Of Columbia § 8-1809?
A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 8-1809" (District Of Columbia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of District Of Columbia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the District Of Columbia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed District Of Columbia attorney.
How does District Of Columbia § 8-1809 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia.