Des Moines does not enforce breed-specific legislation (BSL). Iowa does not have a statewide ban on specific breeds. All dogs are regulated based on individual behavior, not breed, under Chapter 18.
Des Moines does not have breed-specific bans or restrictions. Iowa law does not mandate breed-specific legislation at the state level. The city regulates dogs based on their individual behavior under Chapter 18 of the Municipal Code. Dogs that bite, attack, or threaten people may be declared dangerous or vicious regardless of breed. Owners of dogs declared dangerous or vicious face additional requirements including secure containment, insurance, and muzzling in public. Some landlords and homeowner insurance policies may have their own breed restrictions, but these are private agreements, not city law.
Dangerous or vicious dog violations carry significant fines and potential euthanasia orders for dogs that cause serious injury.
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no city ordinance restricting lawn ornaments on residential property. Chapter 60 (Housing) requires reasonable property maintenance and could ...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no city ordinance regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Chapter 48 (Noise) standards could theoretically apply to overnight blow...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no municipal ordinance regulating residential holiday lights. Display timing, brightness, and animation are governed primarily by HOA and cond...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines requires building permits for permanent outdoor kitchen installations with gas lines, electrical wiring, plumbing, or structural roofs under Chapt...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines has no smoker-specific ordinance. Open burning is regulated under Chapter 70 (Fire Prevention) and Iowa Code 100B with cooking-fire exemptions. Io...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines Fire Code under Chapter 26, Article XII adopts the International Fire Code (IFC). IFC 308.1.4 prohibits open-flame cooking devices and LP-gas tank...
See how Des Moines's breed restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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