Meridian, ID Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)

Dangerous and at-risk dogs found within the boundaries of the City of Meridian present a risk to the health, safety, and welfare of persons and other animals. The purpose of this section is to provide policies and procedures for the safe management of dangerous and at-risk dogs to promote the public health, safety, and welfare, while also promoting the humane and ethical treatment of animals.

B. Procedure for designating a dog as dangerous or at-risk.

1. If an animal control officer has probable cause to believe a dog is dangerous or at-risk, as those terms are defined in this Chapter, the officer shall have authority to designate the dog as dangerous or at-risk and shall serve a written notice of designation on the owner of the dog. An animal control officer shall have authority to designate an animal regardless of whether or not an owner has been charged with a crime. The notice of designation shall:

a. Be personally served on the owner by an animal control officer or other authorized person, or mailed to the owner via U.S. mail.

b. Identify whether the dog is being designated as dangerous or at-risk;

c. Identify the date on which the officer determined the dog to be dangerous or at-risk;

d. Provide a description of the factual circumstances and events that support the officer's decision to designate the dog as dangerous or at-risk;

e. Provide a clear description or photograph of the dog;

f.