No breed ban in Queens. NYCHA public housing prohibits certain breeds. NY Ag & Markets Law preempts local breed-specific legislation. Dangerous dog designations by court.
Queens County has no breed-specific legislation (BSL) banning or restricting ownership of pit bulls, Rottweilers, or any other breed. New York State Agriculture and Markets Law Section 107 preempts municipalities from enacting BSL. Instead, NY Ag & Markets Law Section 121 creates a case-by-case Dangerous Dog designation process: any dog that without justification attacks a person or companion animal can be declared dangerous by a court, triggering muzzling, confinement, liability insurance, and microchipping requirements. NYC DOHMH handles dog bite reports and investigations. Private restrictions do apply: the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) prohibits pit bull, Rottweiler, Doberman, and other breeds over 25 pounds in public housing. Many Queens co-ops and condos adopt private breed or weight restrictions through house rules. Homeowners insurance policies in Queens may exclude certain breeds. All dogs 4 months and older must be licensed with DOHMH (Health Code 161.04) and rabies-vaccinated. Leash law (Health Code 161.05) applies to all breeds.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how Queens County's breed restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.