Loveland, CO Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)

Section 6.20.030(A) makes it unlawful to own or keep any vicious animal, defined by what the animal does rather than what breed it is: biting or clawing (or attempting to), biting another animal, or approaching a person in an apparent attitude of attack, whether or not the attack is completed. Subsection B lists seven affirmative defenses, including that the person bitten was provoking the animal, was unlawfully trespassing onto fenced or leash-restrained premises or into a vehicle where the animal was confined, was attempting to assault someone, was trying to break up an animal fight, was aiding an injured animal, or was attempting to capture the animal when the owner was absent. Subsection C clarifies that a person is 'lawfully' on the premises when performing a legal duty or acting on the owner's invitation.

Subsection D governs what happens once a complaint is filed in Loveland municipal court against the owner of an impounded animal: the animal cannot be released except by order of the municipal judge. If the judge finds the animal is vicious or represents a clear and present danger to the public or other animals, the judge can order it destroyed in a humane manner by a Colorado-licensed veterinarian of the owner's choosing, at the animal shelter. Separately, § 6.24.010(A)(1) authorizes animal control and police officers to impound vicious or nuisance animals in the first place, and officers may use a tranquilizer dart or, if necessary to prevent harm to people, destroy an animal that appears vicious during capture.