Kennels/Animal Shelters
KENNELS/ANIMAL SHELTERS
In Oklahoma City, an individual may harbor more than four dogs or cats if the household obtains a kennel license as provided in Chapter 8, Article V of the Oklahoma City Municipal Code. If an individual lives in another municipality within Oklahoma County, the municipal code for that municipality should be reviewed.
All kennels and animal shelters and kennels within Oklahoma City limits are required to obtain a license from the City of Oklahoma City.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Visiable
Before coming to our clinic for adult vaccinations, please call one of our clinic locations to ensure that your specific vaccination is available. If the vaccination is not available, we will be able to refer you to places that do offer your specific vaccine(s).
How many dogs can and individual have before the City of Oklahoma City requires a kennel license?
An individual household is allowed 4 adult dogs. The household can also have puppies less than 6 months in age.
Can anyone with more than 4 dogs obtain a kennel license?
No. The location for the kennel must be properly zoned. Most residential homes within Oklahoma City cannot obtain the proper zoning for kennel operations on their property.
Obtaining an Animal Kennel/Shelter License
The following is a list of general requirements for obtaining an Oklahoma City Animal Shelter/Kennel License. One should also consult the Oklahoma Municipal Code concerning specific Animal Shelter.
- First, determine if the area where the kennel is to be located is properly zoned. This can be completed by contacting the City of Oklahoma City Zoning Department at (405) 297-2623 or the Oklahoma County Assessors office at (405) 713-1361.
- Submit detailed plans and specifications along with the plan review application and a twenty dollar ($20) plan review fee to the OKC-County Health Department (OCCHD) to construct or remodel any animal shelter or kennel. Written approval of plans and specifications must be obtained from OCCHD prior to construction or remodeling.
- Plans and specifications for animal shelters or kennels shall be in compliance with Municipal Code and must include descriptions of the proposed ventilation system, plumbing equipment, and finishes of floors, walls, and ceilings.
- Animal housing areas must be physically separated from areas in which food and/or drink for human consumption is prepared, served or stored and from any living and or sleeping areas of animal shelter or kennel personnel.
- All animal shelters or kennels must be inspected by OCCHD prior to the issuance of a license. OCCHD may make periodic inspections of all licensed facilities to achieve compliance with applicable requirements.