Concord, CA Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- State Law
- CA Food & Ag Code §§31601–31683
- Breed Ban Preemption
- CA Food & Ag Code §31683
- Designations
- Potentially Dangerous / Vicious
- Hearing Authority
- Contra Costa County Animal Services
- Core Requirements
- Secure enclosure, muzzle/leash, signage, registration
Summary
Dangerous or vicious dog designations in Concord are determined under California Food & Agricultural Code §31601 et seq. by Contra Costa County Animal Services following a behavior-based hearing. California Food & Agricultural Code §31683 preempts breed-specific legislation, so designations rely exclusively on documented aggressive behavior.
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
Dangerous dog enforcement in Concord is handled by Contra Costa County Animal Services under California's statewide Potentially Dangerous and Vicious Dog law (Food & Agricultural Code §§31601–31683). A dog may be designated Potentially Dangerous following two aggressive incidents (unprovoked off-property behavior causing a person to defend themselves, or attacks on other domestic animals) or Vicious after a severe injury attack. Designations are made through an administrative hearing where owners can contest evidence. Consequences of a Potentially Dangerous designation include mandatory registration, secure enclosure, muzzle and leash in public, posted warning signs, and annual registration renewal. Vicious dog designations may require permanent confinement or euthanasia. Critically, Food & Ag Code §31683 preempts all local breed-specific bans, meaning Concord cannot and does not ban pit bulls, Rottweilers, or any other breed; designations must be based on individual dog behavior only. Owners of designated dogs face elevated liability and may be required to carry additional insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Concord ban specific dog breeds?
How is a dog designated dangerous?
What are the rules for a dangerous-designated dog?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Concord
How Concord compares: Cities with No Dog Breed Restrictions·California rules heatmap·Compare Concord to another location·View the California animal ordinances overview
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Breed Restrictions in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Contra Costa County handle breed restrictions.