Animals

Are there regulations on the maximum permissible number of pets?

While there is no maximum number of pets you can have in your household, there are limitations as to the amount you can have without obtaining an animal permit.  If you have three (3) or more animals of the same species (3 dogs, 3 cats, etc.), you will need to obtain an animal permit.  In addition, if you have five (5) or more total domestic animals in your household, you also will need to obtain an animal permit.  Obtaining an animal permit is also necessary if you have one (1) or more animals that are considered an exotic species or livestock, such as goats or pigs.  For more information about animal permits, please call the Building Department at (650) 738-7344.

I have a dangerous animal on my property

The Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA is located at 12 Airport Blvd. in San Mateo.  Their phone number is 650-340-7022.

I have a problem with barking dogs.

If you have a problem with a habitually barking dog in your neighborhood, call the Police Department non-emergency line at (650) 738-7314.

The city has a program to help habitually barking dog owners and their neighbors find workable solutions that are equitable to all parties involved.

In the meantime, begin documenting the occurences (date/time/duration) of habitual barking to aid the process of resolving the barking situation. You can also tape record barking incidences as well, being sure to state date and start/stop times on the tape.

I have a problem with rats & other pests

Please call the San Mateo County Department of Environmental Health at 650-363-4305. 

Honey bee swarm / hive removal services are offered by the Beekeepers' Guild of San Mateo County.  More information for these removal services can be found at http://SanMateoBeeGuild.org .

I have been bitten by an animal

Contact your medical care provider.  A report will be written and the SPCA will be notified.

I have lost my pet

The Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA is located at 12 Airport Blvd. in San Mateo.  Their phone number is 650-340-7022.

I want a dead animal removed

The Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA is located at 12 Airport Blvd. in San Mateo.  Their phone number is 650-340-7022.

I want to adopt a pet (dogs, cats & rabbits)

The Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA adoption facility is located at 1450 Rollins Road in Burlingame.  Their phone number is 650-340-7022.

I want to give away (surrender) my dog or cat (for adoption)

The Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA is located at 12 Airport Blvd. in San Mateo.  Their phone number is 650-340-7022.

I want to report a stray dog / cat

The Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA is located at 12 Airport Blvd. in San Mateo.  Their phone number is 650-340-7022.

I want to report an abused pet

The Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA is located at 12 Airport Blvd. in San Mateo.  Their phone number is 650-340-7022.

What are the leash laws

Currently, all dogs must be on leash on all Pacifica beaches. The exception is Esplanade Beach, where dogs can be off-leash.

Please call the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Dept. at 650-738-7378 for more information.

Where can I get my pet spayed or neutered

The Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA is located at 12 Airport Blvd. in San Mateo.  Their phone number is 650-340-7022.

Where do I get a license for my dog, cat or other animal?

Animal licenses can be obtained through the San Mateo County Health Department.  Their web page at http://www.smchealth.org/animallicensing includes an online form that can be electronically submitted, a paper form which can be mailed, and 3 locations within San Mateo County where you can apply for the license in person.

Where is the animal shelter?

The Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA has two facilities.  The newer adoption facility is located at 1450 Rollins Road in Burlingame while the older facility is located at 12 Airport Blvd. in San Mateo.  The San Mateo location is for lost & found animals, surrendering of your pet, reporting of dead or abused animals, etc.  A full list of services available at these locations can be found at the Peninsula Humane Society Services page at http://www.peninsulahumanesociety.org/services/.  Their phone number is 650-340-7022.