Pets, chickens and bees in Exeter: the local rules

Each rule below links to the section of the Exeter Municipal Code it was read from, with the code text one click away (checked October 2026). General information, not legal advice.

What Exeter's code says

Exeter code What Exeter's code adds
Bees	No honeybee colonies may be kept. Applies: Between June 1 and October 1 of any year. § 6.08.070 · code text It shall be unlawful and a misdemeanor for any individual or entity to bring, have, keep, or maintain, within the city, at any time between the first day of June and the first day of October, in any year, any swarm or swarms, colony or colonies of honeybees.
Permit	The animal control officer may allow a 5th cat or dog for up to 30 days when shown necessary. Applies: This may be extended for temporary fostering. § 6.12.010 · code text Upon reasonable showing of necessity to the animal control officer, a person may be permitted to keep a fifth cat or dog for a period of time not to exceed thirty days.
Pet limit	No more than 4 cats and dogs combined over 4 months old. Applies: Unless one of the conditions listed in the code applies. § 6.12.010 · code text No person shall keep, harbor or maintain upon his premises within the city more than a total of four cats and/or dogs combined over the age of four months unless said person comes within one of the following conditions:

Who this affects

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Frequently asked questions

Can I keep chickens or bees at my home in Exeter?

Exeter allows at most 4 cats and dogs combined over 4 months old; animal control may allow a fifth for up to 30 days.

Pets, chickens and bees in Exeter

Key points

What Exeter's code says

Who this affects

Frequently asked questions

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