Menifee explores tougher backyard breeder regulations

Menifee could tighten its approach to backyard breeders after city officials discussed possible new regulations during a special City Council meeting Wednesday.

While no action was taken, council members expressed interest in exploring additional rules after hearing an overview of the city’s current animal services, shelter data, and possible approaches to addressing backyard breeding.

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Menifee Police Capt. Heriberto Gutierrez told the council that backyard breeders are typically small-scale breeders who breed dogs or cats outside established breeding standards, often prioritizing profit over animal welfare.

“This creates a challenge because it may increase sheltering services and/or needs,” Gutierrez said. 

Staff shared data showing Animal Friends of the Valley sheltered more than 1,500 dogs and 1,000 cats from Menifee in 2025. Dogs and cats accounted for more than 77 percent of all animal intakes that year. Staff also said the percentage of dogs entering the shelter without being spayed or neutered has declined over the past three years, while reunification rates between lost pets and their owners have increased. 

The presentation also highlighted the city’s current animal care efforts. Menifee requires dogs to be licensed and both dogs and cats to be spayed or neutered and microchipped unless they qualify for certain exemptions. Unlike some neighboring cities, however, Menifee does not currently have a hobby breeder license or a municipal code specifically regulating backyard breeders. 

Gutierrez said the city has focused on education and expanding access to affordable spay and neuter services rather than relying solely on enforcement.

Earlier this year, Menifee offered 100 spay and neuter vouchers worth up to $250. The appointments filled within days, prompting the city to add about 25 more before those also reached capacity. The city is also working with Riverside County to bring a mobile spay and neuter clinic to Menifee later this summer. 

Animal Friends of the Valley Executive Director Mo Middleton said one of the city’s biggest needs is more affordable spay and neuter services.

“I think the biggest problem is your spay and neuter,” Middleton said. “We need to find more low-cost areas for them.” 

Staff outlined several possible changes, including a hobby breeder license, higher fees for unaltered dogs and new regulations targeting backyard breeders. Officials also plan to continue expanding spay and neuter programs and public education.