Faulkner County, AR Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- Faulkner County Code § 720.01(14) (Ord. 2002-013)
- Breed rule
- None; based on individual bite/attack history
- Leash/muzzle
- 4-foot leash and muzzle required outside kennel
- Signage deadline
- 'Beware of Dog' sign within 10 days
- Violation class
- Level Two, $1,000-$1,500 escalating fine
- Enforcing agency
- Faulkner County Animal Welfare Unit / Sheriff
Summary
Faulkner County has no breed-specific ban; instead it regulates dogs individually designated 'dangerous' or 'vicious' based on bite or attack history under § 720.01(14). Designated dogs must be muzzled and leashed to four feet outside a secure kennel, posted with 'Beware of Dog' signs, and violations are a Level Two offense carrying a $1,000-plus fine.
14) KEEPING OF DANGEROUS OR VICIOUS DOG. ... a. The keeping of such dogs shall be subject to the following standards: i. Leash and Muzzle: No person shall permit a vicious or dangerous dog to go outside its kennel or pen unless such dog is securely maintained with a leash no longer than four (4) feet in length and is muzzled by a device sufficient to prevent the dog from biting people or other animals. ... d. Signs. All owners, keepers or harbors of vicious or dangerous dogs within ten (10) days of being so designated shall display in a prominent place on their premises a sign easily readable by the public, suing the words "Beware of Dog". In addition, a similar sign will be posted on the kennel or pen. ... h. Violation of this section shall constitute a Level Two Violation and will be sanctioned pursuant to Section 16.
Full Breakdown
Faulkner County does not ban dogs by breed. 01(1)(g) and (q). Once so designated, the dog cannot leave its kennel or pen unless on a leash no longer than four feet and muzzled, and it may not be tied to a tree, post or building. When not leashed and muzzled, the dog must stay in a securely enclosed, adequately lit and ventilated kennel with a secure top and either an attached floor or sides embedded at least two feet into the ground; it cannot be kept on a porch, patio or anywhere it could exit a house on its own.
Within 10 days of the designation, the owner must post a legible 'Beware of Dog' sign on the premises and on the kennel, and must notify the Animal Welfare Unit in writing within 10 days of the dog's death, its removal from the county, or the owner's change of address within the county. Selling or transferring a designated dog requires notifying the Animal Welfare Unit the day of sale. 01(16), carrying a $1,000 fine for a first offense, $1,250 for a second, and $1,500 for a third or later offense, plus restitution and the owner's liability for all shelter, food, handling and veterinary costs the enforcement generates.
Violations & Fines
Failing to keep a designated dangerous or vicious dog leashed, muzzled, confined or signed is a Level Two Violation: $1,000 for a first offense, $1,250 for a second, and $1,500 for a third or later offense, plus restitution. Noncompliance also triggers immediate seizure of the dog, and the owner must cover all shelter, food, handling and veterinary costs the enforcement action generates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Faulkner County ban pit bulls or other specific dog breeds?
What must I do if my dog is designated dangerous or vicious?
What's the fine for violating the dangerous dog rules?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Faulkner County
How Faulkner County compares: Cities with No Dog Breed Restrictions·Compare Faulkner County to another location·View the Arkansas animal ordinances overview
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