Clark County, NV Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Basis
- documented behavior, not breed
- Declaring authority
- county animal control officer
- Inspection fee
- $100 per inspection
- Insurance required
- at least $100,000 liability
- Vicious outcome
- impound, possible euthanasia
Summary
Clark County declares dogs and other animals dangerous or vicious based on documented aggressive behavior, not breed, and requires owners to obtain a permit with sterilization, microchipping and liability insurance.
An animal may be declared dangerous by the animal control officer if on two separate occasions within eighteen months: (A) It behaved menacingly to a degree that would lead a reasonable person to defend himself against substantial bodily harm under the circumstances; or (B) It bit a person or animal, but without causing substantial bodily harm.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 147).
Full Breakdown
Under Clark County Code § 10.16.010, the county's animal control officer may declare an animal dangerous after two menacing incidents or bites within eighteen months, or immediately for a vicious attack causing substantial bodily harm or death. Nevada law (NRS 244.359(5)) bars Clark County from banning specific breeds, so the declaration turns entirely on an animal's documented conduct. Owners of a dangerous animal must pass a property inspection, pay a $100 fee, sterilize and microchip the animal, post warning signs, and carry at least $100,000 in liability insurance; an animal declared vicious is impounded and, absent a successful appeal, surrendered for euthanasia.
Violations & Fines
Keeping a dangerous or vicious animal without the required permit, or after permit revocation, is a misdemeanor under § 10.16.040(b); the animal may be impounded and, if vicious, euthanized.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Clark County ban specific dog breeds?
What happens if my dog is declared vicious?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Clark County
How Clark County compares: Cities with No Dog Breed Restrictions·Compare Clark County to another location·View the Nevada animal ordinances overview
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