Bakersfield does not have breed-specific legislation (BSL) targeting pit bulls, Rottweilers, or other specific dog breeds. California Food and Agricultural Code §31683 prohibits cities from adopting breed-specific ordinances that declare a dog dangerous based on breed alone, though cities may adopt breed-specific spay/neuter programs. Bakersfield regulates dangerous and vicious dogs based on individual behavior rather than breed.
Under California F&A §31683, no city ordinance can deem a dog dangerous or vicious based solely on breed. Bakersfield follows this state mandate and regulates dogs under general dangerous dog provisions evaluating individual animal behavior. Dogs that bite, attack, or threaten people or other animals can be declared dangerous or vicious under California F&A §31601-31683 and BMC animal control provisions, regardless of breed. Kern County Animal Services handles dangerous dog declarations, investigations, and enforcement in Bakersfield through a contract for animal control services. Landlords and homeowner insurance carriers may impose their own private breed restrictions — these are private contracts, not city law. Renters and buyers should verify private restrictions separately. Service dogs are protected under the ADA regardless of breed.
Bakersfield does not ban breeds, so there are no breed-based violations. However, any dog regardless of breed that bites, attacks, or threatens may be declared dangerous or vicious through a Kern County Animal Services hearing. Owners of declared dangerous dogs must comply with specific containment, muzzling, insurance, and signage requirements. Failure to comply can result in impoundment, fines, and misdemeanor charges. A second serious incident can lead to court-ordered euthanasia.
Bakersfield, CA
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Bakersfield, CA
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Bakersfield, CA
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Bakersfield, CA
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Bakersfield, CA
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Bakersfield, CA
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See how Bakersfield's breed restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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