Nicholasville, KY Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)

Chapter 5 of the Nicholasville Code of Ordinances names no breed. Article III (Sections 5-30 to 5-36) applies to any individual dog that meets the Section 5-30 definition. That definition has a court-declared vicious dog plus four triggers: an unprovoked bite or attack on a human being on public or private property, a previous attack or bite on a human being outside justifiable circumstances, a veterinarian's certification of danger to human life or property, and training as an attack or guard dog (dogs employed by Kentucky law enforcement are excepted). An animal is not deemed dangerous solely because it attacks someone assaulting its owner, a person who tormented or abused it, or because it defends its young.

Section 5-31 lets any person who identifies a dangerous dog, or anyone acting for that person, make a complaint before the District Court charging the owner or keeper with harboring a dangerous dog. If the court finds the dog meets the definition, it orders the owner to keep the dog securely confined in a pen complying with Section 5-32, or it can order the dog destroyed. Owners can destroy the dog voluntarily or consent in writing.

Section 5-32(a) requires a dog determined by court order to be dangerous, or vicious under Kentucky statutes, to be kept indoors or in a securely enclosed and locked outdoor pen with minimum dimensions of five (5) feet by ten (10) feet, secure sides and a secure top. Without a concrete, cementry or asphalt bottom, the sides must be imbedded no less than two (2) feet. Off the property, the dog needs a muzzle and a chain or leash not exceeding six (6) feet under a responsible adult's control. A conspicuous warning notice is posted at the place of confinement, and no person under eighteen (18) years old can own, harbor or handle the dog.

Section 5-33 requires proof to the city clerk of public liability insurance of at least fifty thousand dollars ($50,000.00). Section 5-34 bars dog fighting and bars possessing with intent to sell, offering for sale, breeding or buying a dangerous or vicious dog within the city. Under Section 5-35, a dog that bites a human being is confiscated and held in the Jessamine County Dog Pound until the court disposes of the harboring charge, for not less than ten (10) days.