• Allowable and Maximum Number of Pets
• Animal Abuse and Cruelty
• Animal Adoptions
• Animal Bites - Reporting
• Animal Care
  
• Animal Department - Emergencies
• Animal Department - General Information
• Animal License and Vaccination Violations
• Animal Licensing
  
• Animal Services Special Permits
• Bees
• Cat Problems
• Central Bark Off-Leash Dog Park
  
• Coyotes
• Dead/Stray/Wild Animals
• Diseased Animals
• Ducks
• Injured or Sick Pets
• Leash Law
• Lost and Found Pets
• Loud and Barking Dogs
• Mosquito Control
• Pooper Scooper Law (Excreata Nuisance)
• Problems with Wild Animals
• Problems with Wild Birds
• Rabies - General Information
• Rats
• Rodent Control
• Spaying and Neutering
  
• West Nile Virus

Allowable and Maximum Number of Pets
The City of Irvine allows up to 3 dogs or 3 cats per household, not to exceed a total of 3 animals. Most other mammals, birds, fish, insects or reptiles are also allowed. Potbellied pigs are considered livestock and require a Livestock Permit. No pet that is considered a health hazard, poisonous or dangerous is allowed. A Kennel License is required for anyone with a number of pets exceeding these regulations. License applications are available at the Irvine Police Department located at 1 Civic Center Plaza . To obtain a complete list of allowable pets, file a complaint, or receive additional information, call the Animal Services- Field Division at (949) 724-7092. 

Animal Abuse and Cruelty
It is a violation of  law to beat or needlessly kill an animal, or to treat an animal in an inhumane manner. Such abuses are punishable by fine and/or imprisonment. To report instances of abuse or cruelty, or for more information regarding animal care, please call Irvine Animal Services Field Division between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. at (949) 724-7092 and an Animal Services Officer will return your call or for immediate assistance contact Irvine Police Dispatch at (949) 724-7200. 

Animal Adoptions

The Irvine Animal Care Center houses impounded, stray, quarantined or unwanted animals. Animals are available for adoption from the shelter on a daily basis. The shelter is located at 6443 Oak Canyon, Irvine, California 92618.

Animal Bites - Reporting

If your pet has bitten someone you are required by law to report such incidents within 24 hours to Irvine Animal Services Field Division . This requirement is specifically important because there has been known cases of rabies in animals in the county of Orange.  It is also important to get a description of the animal that has bitten. If the owner is unknown, try to keep the animal in sight until an Animal Services Officer arrives.

Animal Care

The Irvine Animal Care Center encourages citizens who own pets to be familiar with proper care instructions for all of their animals. In general, owners or keepers of pets are required to provide their pets with the following amenities: adequate food, water; shelter; and adequate space in the primary enclosure based on the particular type, age, size, and weight of animal.

Animal Care Center hours are:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday from 12 - 7pm
Saturday 10am - 5pm, and
Sunday 11am - 5pm

Animal Department - Emergencies

The Animal Services Field Division can respond to emergency incidents such as bite cases or injured animals that occur after normal hours. For emergency assistance contact Irvine Police Dispatch, the number is (949) 724-7200. If you need assistance between 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., call the office at (949) 724-7092 and an Animal Services Officer will return your call. If you are requesting immediate assistance contact Irvine Police Dispatch at (949) 724-7200.  The office responds to calls regarding bothersome animals, abused or neglected animals, lost or found animals, and animals in need of medical attention and takes appropriate action.

Animal Department - General Information
The Animal Services Field Division investigates cases regarding bothersome, abused or neglected animals, lost or found animals, and animals in need of medical attention and takes appropriate action. The City of Irvine also operates a shelter facility for temporary housing of impounded, stray, quarantined or unwanted animals. The Irvine Animal Care Center is located at 6443 Oak Canyon . Contact the Animal Care Center at (949) 724-7740 to obtain current hours of operation. To report an incident, file a complaint or obtain more information, call the office at (949) 724-7092 or for immediate assistance contact Irvine Police Dispatch at (949) 724-7200. 

Animal License and Vaccination Violations

If your pet requires licensing or vaccination and you have not satisfied the requirements,  a ticket may be issued by Irvine Animal Services for failure to have a current animal license or proof of rabies vaccination.

Animal Licensing

Irvine Animal Care Center
6443 Oak Canyon Road
www.IrvineShelter.org

The license fee for dogs is $18 per year for altered dogs and $40 per year for unaltered dogs. For cats, the license fee is $8 per year for altered cats and $15.00 per year for unaltered cats. For more information about licensing requirements for other animals or for general information, contact the Irvine Animal Care Center at  (949) 724-7741.

Animal Services Special Permits

Any person wishing to obtain a permit to operate a private or commercial establishment or event within the City of Irvine where animals are involved must meet all the requirements set forth by the City if Irvine Animal Services Program and any other concerned state or federal agency.

Bees
If there is an issue of bees on City property, such as bee hives in City trees, please contact the Public Works Landscape Division, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. by calling (949) 724-7600, and ask for Bruce Carleton or Dennis Chiotti.   

If there is an emergency bee situation on City property outside normal working hours, call the Irvine Police Department at (949) 724-7200.

Animal Services and/or Public Works do not respond or handle bee problems on private property. For bees on private property the property owner should call any exterminator or beekeeper of their own choosing. The following information on companies who can assist is provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as an endorsement of any such company. This list may not include all companies that are able to assist, please consult your phonebook for complete listings.

The Bee Man....................... Laguna Niguel.......... 949 455-0123
 Aliso Canyon Bee Removal .. Laguna Niguel.......... 949 499-6031
Aliso Viejo Pest Control ....... Aliso Viejo................ 949 643-0569
Bee busters ......................... Laguna Beach.......... 949 497-6264         
                                         24 hour...................... 888 424-2337
CVS Services             ......... Mission Viejo............ 949 583-9616
Newport Exterminating......................................... 949 261-0700
Orange Co Pest Control  ...... Laguna Hills.............. 949 586-8700
                                         24 hours.................... 888 271-0303
The Bug Man..................... Fullerton.................... 714-992-1292
                                                                           800-660-6942
Vector Control  ................................................... 714-971-2421
Western Exterminator..........Irvine......................... 949 364-1911

Cat Problems
While the City of Irvine does not have a leash law for cats, free-roaming cats can be a nuisance. All cats must be vaccinated annually against rabies; however, cats are not required to display the rabies tag on a collar. Owners are encouraged to confine their cats indoors at all times. The indoor cat escapes exposure to disease, traffic hazards and other dangers. There are several solutions to bothersome cat problems, such as an exterior animal repellant used in areas where cats are a problem. In "sandbox" areas the feces should be removed or the soil replaced before repellant is applied. If the owner of the problem cat is known, contact them and ask for their cooperation. This is often the most effective way to solve the problem. Live traps may also be purchased for the capture of elusive cats that are a nuisance. Friendly ones should be transported in a sturdy box, carrier or pillowcase. All bothersome cats must be treated humanely and transported to the Irvine Animal Care Center . The Animal Services - Field Division does not pick up cats unless they are seriously injured or sick, or have bitten a human within the past 10 days. For further information, call Animal Services at (949) 724-7092. If you are in need of immediate assistance contact Irvine Police Dispatch at (949) 724-7200 or visit the police department website at www.cityofirvine.org/ipd  

Central Bark Off-Leash Dog Park

Click here for more information or call (949) 724-7740.

Coyotes

Report coyote sightings and unusual occurrences to the Irvine Police Department at (949) 724-7000.  Teach your children to avoid stray animals.   Keep your pets on a 6 foot leash and under your immediate control.    

Dead/Stray/Wild Animals
The Irvine Animal Services - Field Division is responsible for picking up dead, stray or wild animals within the Irvine City limits. To report a dead, stray or wild animal, call Irvine Police Dispatch at (949) 724-7200.

Diseased Animals
Irvine Animal Services in conjunction with Orange County Health Care Agency regularly monitor disease patterns in animal communities that may threaten human health. Though not frequently contracted by humans, such diseases are constantly present in the animal population, including household pets. Such diseases can be transmitted by direct contact, insects or even wind. If you suspect that you or your pet has been infected by a diseased animal, contact your physician and veterinarian immediately. For more information about animal diseases, or to report an infected animal, call Animal Services at (949) 724-7092 

Ducks

From late February and into August, Irvine Animal Services receives many phone calls from residents who are concerned about the well being of ducks who have selected, what appears to be, strange locations to nest and raise their young.  Many calls are received regarding a mother duck and ducklings crossing the road, or ducks nesting around a backyard swimming pool.  Some calls are from residents who feel the presence of ducks at a private residence is a nuisance and should be removed.

Injured or Sick Pets
If your pet is injured or becomes ill, call your veterinarian or the one nearest to you. Local veterinarians's phone numbers are listed in the yellow pages of the phone book. For cases after your vet's normal hours, an emergency veterinary clinic provides care for sick or injured pets. To contact the emergency clinic, please call the Orange County Emergency Pet Clinic at (949) 261-7979. The clinic is located at 3720 Campus Drive, Suite D in Newport Beach. 

Leash Law
The City of Irvine Leash Law Ordinance requires all dogs to be on a handheld leash, or confined to their owner's property at all times. Also, dogs may not be tied on public property. Besides being the law, this ordinance is a common sense practice to avoid injury, illness, or loss of your dog. Dogs roaming free are in violation of the leash law ordinance and are subject to impoundment by the Irvine Police Department . Owners of dogs running free may receive a citation and/or a fine. To report a dog running loose or for more information about the leash law ordinance, call the Irvine Police Department at (949) 724-7200 or visit their website at www.cityofirvine.org/ipd  

Lost and Found Pets
To report a lost or found animal, contact the Irvine Police Department at (949) 724-7200.  When reporting a stray, provide a description of the animal along with any identification it is wearing. 

If you find a stray animal and would like to keep it until an owner is located, you will need to report that you have found the animal.  Contact the Irvine Animal Care Center at (949) 724-7740 to report that the animal is a stray, and that you will be holding on to it.  Additionally, you will need to supply a detailed description of the animal to aid in returning it to its owner. Stray animals turned over to the Irvine Animal Services - Field Division will be transported to the Irvine Animal Care Center.  For further details of the holding period and adoption process please contact the Irvine Animal Care Center at (949) 724-7740. 

Loud and Barking Dogs

Barking dogs and other loud or bothersome animals bring frequent complaints to the Irvine Police Department, particularly in warm weather when windows are open. Not only is it extremely inconsiderate to allow dogs to bark excessively or continuously, but it is also against the Irvine City Ordinance. Owners of barking dogs may be in violation of the City of Irvine Noise Nuisance ordinance. Violators are punishable by law. Animal Service- Field Division investigates all complaints of barking dogs reported in the City of Irvine jurisdiction. To file an initial complaint contact Irvine Police Dispatch with the exact address of the barking dog and be prepared to supply as much detail as possible regarding the nuisance.  For more information call (949) 724-7092. 

Mosquito Control
Mosquitoes are often a nuisance to citizens in Irvine and Orange County, especially when weather grows very hot and humid. More than a mere nuisance, though, mosquitoes can create danger because of the diseases they often carry. The Orange County Vector Control District takes steps to control the mosquito population in both immature larval and adult stages with elimination techniques in all neighborhoods in the community. Citizens are asked to assist in this control by properly disposing potential water holding containers such as old tires, cans, and bottles. Avoid standing water in boat and swimming pool covers as well as toys such as wagons. Water in bird baths, ornamental pools, flower pots, and children's wading pools should be changed at least once a week. For more information, or to report a serious biting mosquito problem, contact the Orange County Vector Control District, which is located at 13001 Garden Grove Blvd., Garden Grove, CA  92843, or call them at (714) 971-2421.  For more information, visit their website at www.ocvcd.org.  

Pooper Scooper Law (Excreata Nuisance)
The Irvine City Ordinance requires that the owner or custodian of any dog must immediately remove the dog's excrement from public or private property other than the dog owner's property. Violation of this Ordinance could result in a fine of up to $100.00 . This is a misdemeanor and police cannot issue a summons for this violation unless they actually view the offense; however, any citizen who sees this violation can request that an officer issue a summons for the offender. For more information about the Excreata Nuisance Ordinance, call Animal Services at (949) 724-7092.

Problems with Wild Animals

From time to time, wild animals such as raccoons, skunks, opossum, deer, squirrels, coyote, bobcat or even mountain lion wander into residential areas. The animals may be dangerous and could carry transmittable diseases and cause destruction of property. Do not to attempt to capture or trap wild animals without contacting Animal Service first. Whether using your own or a borrowed trap, the office is best qualified to handle traps and animals.   For tips, or for assistance with removing a wild animal from your property, contact an Animal Service Officer at (949) 724-7092. 

Problems with Wild Birds
Wild birds often make their homes in your trees and occasionally, the eaves, attic or frame of your house. Besides being a general nuisance, they can also cause damage to your trees and home. When this happens, Irvine Animal Services recommends that citizens try to encourage the animal to leave the area before resorting to other methods. To prevent birds from nesting in the wood of your home, attach screening from the roof edge to the bottom of the eaves. This will prevent easy roosting. The Animal Service - Field Division does not recommend trying to capture wild birds who are disturbing your home. If birds are nesting in or causing damage to you property, or for more information, call an Animal Services Officer at (949) 724-7092. 

Rabies - General Information
Rabies is a fatal disease caused by a virus carried by animals infected with the disease. The most common carriers of rabies are wild animals such as raccoons and bats. These animals can infect a household pet that could pass it on to people or other animals. Care should be taken to avoid situations that place your pet in contact with wild animals. All dogs in the City of Irvine are required by law to be vaccinated against rabies. It is highly recommended that cats are vacinated against rabies even though it is not required by law. There are still animals, of course, that have not been vaccinated, so adults should caution children to use care when around unfamilar pets. For more information about rabies or other animal diseases, call Irvine Animal Services at (949) 724-7092. 

Rats
Irvine Animal Services does not provide pest control services for mice and rats.  We suggest you contact your local phone directory under Pest Control.  If you feel you have an extreme rat infestation you can contact Orange County Vector Control at (714) 971-2421, or visit their website at: www.ocvcd.org 

Rodent Control

Irvine Animal Services does not provide pest control services for mice and rats.  We suggest you contact your local phone directory under Pest Control.  If you feel you have an extreme rat infestation you can contact Orange County Vector Control at (714) 971-2421. 

Spaying and Neutering

The overpopulation of unwanted animals is a serious problem in any area. To reduce this problem, The Irvine Animal Care Center asks that all pet owners have their pets spayed or neutered. In addition, the law requires that all animals adopted from a shelter facility be spayed or neutered.

The Animal Care Center hours are:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday from 12 - 7pm
Saturday 10am - 5pm, and
Sunday 11am - 5pm

West Nile Virus

West Nile Virus Prevention & Control

Avoid outside activity at dawn and dusk during the mosquito season (May to October). This is particularly important for the elderly and small children. Wear protective clothing (long pants and long sleeves) and apply insect repellent (DEET) when outside.  Make sure that doors and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair and replace screens that have tears or holes in them.  Drain all standing water on private property and stock permanent ponds with fish that eat mosquito larvae. Make sure roof gutters drain properly. Clean clogged gutters in the spring and fall.

 

For more information, contact Irvine Animal Services at (949) 724-7092 or Orange County Vector Control District at (714) 971-2421, extension 142 or 146.    Visit their website at www.ocvcd.org