Bloomfield, NJ Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)

Section 134-13 of the Bloomfield Township Code sets a conduct-based test. Any dog or cat that has attacked or bitten any human being, or that habitually attacks other dogs, cats or domestic animals, is defined as a "vicious dog or cat." The text of § 134-13 names no breed; the trigger is what the animal did.

The process runs through the Animal Control Officer, who receives and investigates complaints. When the officer deems an animal vicious under the definition, the officer reports the facts to the recorder of the Township, who has the owner or person harboring the animal notified in writing of the complaint and told to appear before the Judge at a stated time and place. At the hearing the Judge inquires into the facts, gives all interested persons an opportunity to be heard under oath and to be represented by counsel, and then decides. Notice of the decision goes to the owner.

Once an animal has been determined vicious, § 134-13(C) bars it from running at large or being upon any street or public place in the Township except while securely muzzled and under leash.

Other provisions in Chapter 134 attach cost and custody to that status. Under § 134-14, any dog or cat that bites a person is impounded immediately and kept under observation for 10 days from the date of the bite to check for rabies, at the owner's expense. Under § 134-33, the annual license fee for a dog found dangerous or potentially dangerous, and each renewal, is $700, against $22 for a spayed or neutered dog and $25 for a dog that is not. Section 134-29 ties the terms potentially dangerous dog and vicious dog to declarations under state law. Section 134-25 prohibits the shelter from banning, barring or limiting adoption or transfer of any animal based on breed or breed mix.