Prescott Valley, AZ Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)

The Town Code defines the regulated dog by what it has done. Section 6-01-010(A) defines an aggressive dog as any dog that has bitten a person or domestic animal without provocation or that has a known history of attacking persons or domestic animals without provocation. A dog is not declared aggressive if the person was committing a willful trespass or other tort on the owner's premises, was tormenting, abusing or assaulting the dog, had in the past been observed or reported to have done so, or was committing or attempting to commit a crime. The Town Code text contains no list of restricted breeds.

Section 6-02-010(A) requires the owner to provide a proper enclosure at all times and to post the premises with a clearly visible warning sign. A second sign with a warning symbol that informs children must be conspicuously posted. Section 6-01-010(R) defines a proper enclosure as secure indoor confinement or an enclosed and locked pen or structure on the owner's property that is not accessible to young children and prevents escape, with secure sides and a secure top, protecting the animal from the elements.

Outside the enclosure, subsection B makes it unlawful to permit the dog to be out unless it is muzzled and restrained by a substantial chain or leash and under the physical restraint of a responsible person. The muzzle must not cause injury or interfere with the dog's vision or respiration but must prevent biting any person or animal.

Section 6-05-020 governs vicious animals. An Animal Services Officer or peace officer who impounded an animal under Sections 6-02-010 and 6-02-020 requests a disposition hearing before the Magistrate Court on probable cause, and the hearing is set within fifteen business days. If the court finds the animal vicious, it is forfeited and humanely destroyed, and the owner pays impound fees and boarding or veterinary costs. For an aggressive dog the Magistrate can instead order it returned to be maintained under Section 6-02-010.

The section does not apply to a governmental dog used in military or police work, a service animal, or a dog involved in lawful hunting, ranching, farming or other agricultural purpose.