Popular Ordinance Questions

Non-Discrimination

The City Commission has approved an amendment to the non-discrimination ordinance, which is now in effect as of November 1, 2016.
See more about the non-discrimination ordinance.

E-Cigarettes


The City Commission has passed an ordinance prohibiting the use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) in public places and places of employment, as well as within 20 feet of any access point to such places. This includes parks and recreation facilities and fields.
See Chapter 17, Article IV for more information. 


No Smoking

Smoking is prohibited in all public places and places of employment in the City of Manhattan. Smoking is also prohibited within 20 feet of entrances.
See Chapter 17, Article III for more information.

Chickens

Chickens are allowed in the City of Manhattan, as long as they are confined on your property (not running at large) and do not become a nuisance. There are no limits on the number of chickens, and no fees or licenses required.
See Chapter 6, Article I for more information.

Dangerous Dogs

The City of Manhattan has a dangerous dogs ordinance. Owners must comply with confinement, leash and muzzle, notice, registration, insurance, neutering, and identification provisions in the ordinance in order to keep a dangerous dog. Breeds included in the ordinance are American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Chow, Doberman Pinscher, German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Staffordshire Bull Terrier and others.
See Chapter 6, Article II for more information.

Hands-Free Driving

Talking on or listening to a cellphone or other wireless communication device is prohibited in the City of Manhattan. Hands-free use via bluetooth or other technology is encouraged.
See more information on mobile device use in Manhattan.

Sidewalk Maintenance

Private sidewalks are maintained by property owners, according to the International Property Maintenance Code.

Noise

Noise from animals, construction, lawn care and trash collection can be a nuisance if they meet certain conditions. Amplified noise can also be a nuisance when measured beyond the property line, or in Downtown and Aggieville business districts, beyond the district zoning line.
See the newly revised noise ordinance for more information.