Clark County, WA Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Breed ban
- None (no statewide WA ban)
- Regulation basis
- Behavior/dangerous-dog declaration
- Enclosure fence height
- At least 6 feet, latching gates
- Liability coverage
- $250,000 bond or policy
- Off enclosure
- Muzzled, leashed, restrained
Summary
Washington has no statewide breed ban, and Clark County imposes no breed-specific restriction. Dogs are regulated by behavior: a dog declared "dangerous" faces strict licensing, a proper enclosure, muzzle-and-leash, $250,000 liability coverage, and microchipping.
The owner of a dangerous dog shall not permit the dog to be outside the proper enclosure unless the dog is muzzled and restrained by a substantial chain or leash and under physical restraint of a responsible person... A proper enclosure shall mean a fully enclosed dog run or fence with a fence height of not less than six (6) feet with self-closing and self-latching gates.
Full Breakdown
Clark County's animal code contains no breed-specific ban; it regulates dogs by conduct under Chapter 8.18 (Dangerous Dogs). CCC 8.18.060 requires the owner of a declared dangerous dog to keep it in a proper enclosure, a fully enclosed dog run or fence at least six feet high with self-closing, self-latching gates, post warning signs, carry a $250,000 surety bond or liability policy, and microchip the dog. Outside the enclosure the dog must be muzzled, leashed, and under a responsible person's physical restraint. Washington state law (RCW 16.08) governs the dangerous-dog framework and does not authorize breed bans.
Violations & Fines
Violating dangerous-dog requirements is a misdemeanor under Chapter 8.19 (fine up to $1,000, up to 90 days jail) and can lead to impoundment and removal of the dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pit bulls banned in Clark County?
What happens if my dog is declared dangerous?
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 Washington animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.