Honolulu County, HI Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)

Article 7 of Chapter 12 regulates dangerous dogs based entirely on behavior. 1, a "Dangerous Dog" is any dog that, without provocation, attacks a person or animal, and the definition specifically excludes breed as a factor. "Provocation" is itself defined with eight scenarios that excuse an attack, including the dog defending its owner from assault, responding to teasing or abuse, protecting its own kennel or offspring, or reacting to pain inflicted by the person or animal attacked. 2(a), the penalties escalate quickly: a first offense is a petty misdemeanor carrying a fine of not less than $500 nor more than $2,000, plus up to 30 days imprisonment or up to six months probation; a second offense within five years becomes a misdemeanor with a fine of $1,000 to $2,000 and up to six months imprisonment or a year of probation.

Owners must also pay restitution to anyone injured and cover the dog's boarding and impoundment costs. 2(d) imposes mandatory conditions regardless of breed: the owner must register their name, address, and the dog's location with the city animal control service, report any ownership change, further attack, lawsuit, or the dog's death, and keep the dog on a leash no longer than 6 feet under adult supervision whenever it leaves the owner's property. 2(e), including a locked fenced or walled enclosure, an escape-proof kennel with fencing gaps no wider than 2 inches, a muzzle, warning signage, mandatory behaviorist training, spay or neuter, liability insurance or bond of at least $50,000, or, as a last resort, humane destruction of the dog.