Modesto · Land use · Kennel
Where is a kennel (dog boarding) allowed in Modesto?
In Modesto, a kennel (dog boarding) is allowed in 3 base zones (C-M, M-1 and M-2), needs a conditional use permit in 4 (MU-P, MU-H, C-2 and C-3) and not allowed in 5 (Modesto use tables, read October 2026).
Key points
- Allowed: C-M, M-1 and M-2
- Needs a permit: MU-P, MU-H, C-2 and C-3
- Not allowed: R-1, R-2, R-3, P-O and C-1
Find your lot's zone on the city zoning map, then read its row. Every status below was read from the Modesto Municipal Code use tables (read October 2026). Base zones only. General information, not legal advice — check with the city before you apply.
Zones where a kennel (dog boarding) can go
Modesto's code calls this use “Kennel”. Each row links to the use table it comes from. A zone marked “see note” has a condition in the code, for example upper floors only or a larger lot.
| Zone | Status | Code |
|---|---|---|
| C-M Commercial-Industrial | Allowed | Chapter 3 — LAND USE REGULATIONS |
| M-1 Light Industrial | Allowed | Chapter 3 — LAND USE REGULATIONS |
| M-2 Heavy Industrial | Allowed | Chapter 3 — LAND USE REGULATIONS |
| MU-P Mixed Use Pedestrian Oriented | Needs a conditional use permit | Chapter 3 — LAND USE REGULATIONS |
| MU-H Mixed Use Highway Oriented | Needs a conditional use permit | Chapter 3 — LAND USE REGULATIONS |
| C-2 General Commercial | Needs a conditional use permit | Chapter 3 — LAND USE REGULATIONS |
| C-3 Highway Commercial | Needs a conditional use permit | Chapter 3 — LAND USE REGULATIONS |
Zones where it is not allowed
What else applies
- Veterinary Hospital (large/small animals) are separate rows.
- Not covered here: P-D Planned Development zone (uses set by each ordinance, 10-7.103); SP-H Specific Plan-Holding zone (own short use list in 10-7.402/403); Downtown Core zone (referenced in 10-3.203, no table in the text). Overlay zones and specific plans can also change the answer.
Other uses in Modesto
Who this affects
Frequently asked questions
Can I have a kennel (dog boarding) in the MU-P zone in Modesto?
Only with a conditional use permit. Modesto's use table lists it that way in MU-P (Mixed Use Pedestrian Oriented) (Chapter 3 — LAND USE REGULATIONS).
Can I have a kennel (dog boarding) in the R-1 zone in Modesto?
No. Modesto's use table does not allow it in R-1 (Low Density Residential) (Chapter 3 — LAND USE REGULATIONS).
Can I have a kennel (dog boarding) in the C-M zone in Modesto?
Yes. Modesto's use table lists it as allowed in C-M (Commercial-Industrial) (Chapter 3 — LAND USE REGULATIONS).
General information, not legal advice.
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