Bartholomew County, IN Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)

Bartholomew County Code Chapter 92 does not create a breed-specific dangerous-dog list; the county's Animal Control Commission and Board of Commissioners instead regulate by conduct. 01 defines a VICIOUS ANIMAL as any animal known to have bitten or otherwise physically molested or inflicted a personal injury on a human being without provocation, or one that promiscuously attacks other animals, so the classification turns on a documented bite or attack rather than breed. 04(C) requires the owner or custodian in unincorporated Bartholomew County to confine it inside a completely enclosed building or secure enclosure with no means of escape, and to muzzle or cage it whenever it is off the owner's premises.

04(B) separately requires the same secure confinement for any dog, cat or other animal in heat. 06, and the Health Department tracks bites through a mandatory Animal Bite Report. The Animal Control Officer, employed under the Animal Control Commission and supervised by the Board of Commissioners, investigates complaints and can issue an official warning. 99(D) for any medical expenses or property damage the animal causes, on top of the standard fine.