Blaine, MN Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)

Section 14-156 adopts by reference the definitions, conditions, restrictions, and requirements of Minnesota's dangerous-dog statutes, M.S.A. §§ 347.50 through 347.57, as though fully set out in Blaine's own Code, so any dog of any breed can be declared dangerous or potentially dangerous based on its behavior rather than its breed. Section 14-157 sets Blaine's own procedure: the city's designated animal control authority makes an initial determination of whether a dog is potentially dangerous or dangerous, and may retain custody of a dog initially found dangerous pending a hearing.

That initial determination becomes conclusive unless the owner appeals in writing to the city clerk within 14 days, after posting a deposit set by the fee schedule; the city clerk then assigns a hearing officer who was not the original decision-maker. The hearing officer weighs the animal control authority's reports, witness testimony and statements, and the owner's comments, then issues written findings within five days by mail or by posting at the owner's residence; if the owner prevails, the deposit is returned. Once a dog is finally determined potentially dangerous or dangerous, § 14-158 requires the owner to register it with the city animal control authority before keeping it in Blaine, and § 14-159 requires the owner to notify that authority within 30 days of any transfer of ownership or residence, and in writing upon the dog's death.