Garland, TX Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Breed Specific
- No breed-specific ban (Texas H&S Code 822 preempts cities)
- Requirements
- Dangerous dog registration required after qualifying incident
- Insurance Required
- $100,000 liability insurance or surety bond required for dangerous dogs
- Requirements
- Secure enclosure and muzzle/leash off-property required
- Agricultural
- Animal Services enforces under Garland Code Chapter 6
Summary
Garland does not ban specific dog breeds; instead, the city follows the Texas dangerous dog statute and enforces its own dangerous-dog registration, containment, and liability-insurance requirements.
Sec. 822.047. LOCAL REGULATION OF DANGEROUS DOGS. A county or municipality may place additional requirements or restrictions on dangerous dogs if the requirements or restrictions: (1) are not specific to one breed or several breeds of dogs; and (2) are more stringent than restrictions provided by this subchapter.
Full Breakdown
Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 822 preempts breed-specific bans by Texas municipalities, so Garland regulates dogs based on individual behavior rather than breed. Under Garland's animal ordinance and state law, a dog declared 'dangerous' after attacking or seriously threatening a person must be registered with Animal Services, securely confined in an enclosure that prevents escape, restrained on a leash and muzzled when off the owner's property, and covered by at least $100,000 in liability insurance or a surety bond. Owners must post warning signs and notify the city within 24 hours if the dog escapes, attacks, or is sold. Failure to comply is a Class C misdemeanor and can escalate. Pit bulls, Rottweilers, and other commonly restricted breeds are legal in Garland so long as they are properly licensed, vaccinated, and contained.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pit bulls banned in Garland?
What happens if my dog bites someone?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Garland
How Garland compares: Cities with No Dog Breed Restrictions·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Garland to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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Breed Restrictions in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Dallas County handle breed restrictions.