Anaheim, CA Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Breed Bans
- None (state preemption)
- Dog Limit
- 3 per dwelling
- Licensing
- OC Animal Care
- State Law
- F&A Code 31601-31683
Summary
Anaheim does not impose breed-specific restrictions. California state law (Food & Agriculture Code 31683) prohibits breed-specific bans. Dangerous and vicious dogs are regulated based on behavior under state law and AMC Chapter 8.08.
Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prevent a city or county from adopting or enforcing its own program for the control of potentially dangerous or vicious dogs that may incorporate all, part, or none of this chapter, or that may punish a violation of this chapter as a misdemeanor or may impose a more restrictive program to control potentially dangerous or vicious dogs. Except as provided in Section 122331 of the Health and Safety Code, no program regulating any dog shall be specific as to breed.
Full Breakdown
Anaheim follows California state law which prohibits breed-specific legislation under Food and Agriculture Code Section 31683. No breed of dog is banned in Anaheim. Dangerous and vicious dog determinations are behavior-based per California Food and Agriculture Code Sections 31601-31683. A dog that bites or behaves aggressively may be declared potentially dangerous or vicious through an administrative hearing process. Owners of dangerous dogs must comply with enclosure requirements, liability insurance, and registration. AMC Chapter 8.08 limits dogs to three per dwelling unit over the age of four months. All dogs must be licensed with Orange County Animal Care. Rabies vaccination is required for licensing.
Violations & Fines
Keeping an unlicensed dog: fine from OC Animal Care. Vicious dog at large: impoundment and potential criminal charges. Failure to comply with dangerous dog conditions: misdemeanor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pit bulls banned in Anaheim?
What happens if my dog bites someone?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Anaheim
How Anaheim compares: Cities with No Dog Breed Restrictions·California rules heatmap·Compare Anaheim to another location·View the California animal ordinances overview
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Breed Restrictions in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Orange County handle breed restrictions.