Ramapo, NY Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)

Ramapo Code § 93-6(C) makes it unlawful for an owner who knows or has reason to know of a dog's dangerous and vicious propensities to let that dog run at large. The law is propensity-based, not breed-based: no breed is named or singled out anywhere in the article. If a dog attacks a person behaving lawfully, that person or a witness may destroy the dog while it is attacking or being pursued afterward, with no liability for doing so under § 93-6(C)(1). The same self-defense right applies to protecting a domestic animal under § 93-6(C)(2).

Anyone can complain to a Dog Control Officer under § 93-6(C)(3), and the officer must either advise the complainant of the right to go to court or, if there is reason to believe the dog is dangerous, start the court proceeding directly. Under § 93-6(C)(4), a Municipal Judge or Justice who finds probable cause can order immediate seizure of the dog, then must hold a hearing within five days on at least two days' written notice to the owner. If the Judge or Justice is satisfied the dog is dangerous, the order directs the owner, a Dog Control Officer or a peace officer to destroy the dog immediately, or directs the owner to confine it permanently or for a specified period; if the owner does not comply, a Dog Control Officer or peace officer carries out the destruction. Section 93-6(C)(5) preserves rabies-control powers under Public Health Law Article 21, Title IV separately from this process.