Harrisburg, PA Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)

Section 3-513.1 A of the Harrisburg Codified Ordinances does not ban or list any breed. Instead, any animal that possesses at least one of 14 listed characteristics is automatically determined and classified as a dangerous animal. The list mixes trait criteria, such as a strong fighting instinct, a strong chase instinct, powerful jaws and a tendency to fight to the death, with conduct criteria. Conduct triggers include an unprovoked bite or attack on a person or other animal three times in a consecutive twelve-month period without substantial injury, or once causing substantial wounds or injuries creating a potential danger to the health or life of the victim. An unlicensed animal with no current rabies vaccination, or one that cannot be restrained from chasing or attacking a person, also qualifies, as does an animal used in a crime.

Once an animal is designated, § 3-513.3 requires a properly contained enclosure, a clearly visible warning sign on the premises, and a conspicuous sign with a warning symbol that informs children. The owner must show on demand proof of liability insurance from an insurer authorized in Pennsylvania in the amount of at least $50,000. Section 3-513.4 allows the animal outside its enclosure only when muzzled, restrained by a substantial chain or leash and under the physical restraint of a responsible person. Under § 3-513.5, a police officer or duly empowered City agent immediately confiscates a dangerous animal that is not in its proper enclosure or is outside without physical restraint.

Process protections and burdens are printed too. No conviction follows where injuries came from provocation, teasing or baiting, or where the victim was committing a criminal act. No preliminary notice is needed, and a sworn complaint of one person supports a summons. Two or more unlicensed dangerous animals over six months old are presumed held for animal fighting under § 3-513.2.