Jefferson County, CO Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)

5(2)(b), defines a 'dangerous dog' as one that inflicts bodily or serious bodily injury or death on a person or domestic animal, demonstrates tendencies that would cause a reasonable person to believe it may do so, or is trained for illegal animal fighting. ' That is why Jefferson County's Animal Control Regulation defines 'Dangerous Dog' by cross-referencing the state statute rather than listing prohibited breeds. Penalties escalate with harm: a bite causing bodily injury is a class 2 misdemeanor; serious bodily injury is a class 1 misdemeanor, rising to a class 6 felony on a second conviction; a death is a class 5 felony.

A court convicting an owner must also order confinement in an escape-proof enclosure, a leash and posted warning sign whenever the dog is outside, a muzzle after a second offense, a $50 nonrefundable microchip fee paid to the state Bureau of Animal Protection, written disclosure of the conviction to any vet, groomer, or trainer who handles the dog, and disclosure to any future owner before a transfer of ownership. A second serious-injury or fatal conviction on the same dog lets the court order the dog confiscated and euthanized once appeals are exhausted.