Georgia Says Goodbye to Parking Lot Pet Peddlers with Passage of HB 217

HB 217 makes selling puppies in public spaces illegal across Georgia.

Georgia has outlawed the roadside sale of pets. On May 9, Gov. Brian Kemp signed a new law banning the sale of dogs, cats, and domestic rabbits in public outdoor spaces such as parking lots, parks, flea markets, fairs, and roadsides across the state.

The measure takes effect July 1, 2025, and targets unlicensed breeders and sellers who operate without oversight, often in substandard conditions. Supporters say the law will also ease pressure on overcrowded animal shelters statewide.

“These individuals do not allow people to come to where these dogs live because they don’t want anyone to see where these animals live,” said state Rep. Beth Camp, a sponsor of the bill. “They’re living in deplorable, substandard conditions for anything that’s alive.”

Penalties for violating the new law are tiered. Individuals can be fined $100 for a first offense, $250 for a second, and $500 for each additional violation. Corporations may face steeper consequences under Georgia Code § 4-11, which outlines the state’s animal protection laws.

Licensed breeders may still sell animals from private residences, businesses, veterinary clinics, agricultural exhibitions, and law enforcement facilities, as long as they follow Georgia Department of Agriculture regulations.

Camp said the goal is to prevent impulse pet purchases in public spaces where animals are often sold without proper documentation or care.

“I backed the roadside sales element because every Georgian’s pet deserves a safe and loving home,” Camp said. “By ending roadside and parking lot sales, we’re protecting our neighbors, our families, and our community’s most vulnerable animals.”