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Redwood City, CA Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Breed Ban
None
Dangerous Dogs
Enhanced requirements after incident
License Required
Yes (San Mateo County)
Code
RWC City Code Ch. 5

Summary

Redwood City does not ban specific dog breeds. All dogs must be licensed and vaccinated. Dogs deemed dangerous after an incident may face special restrictions including muzzling, confinement requirements, and liability insurance.

Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prevent a city or county from adopting or enforcing its own program for the control of potentially dangerous or vicious dogs that may incorporate all, part, or none of this chapter, or that may punish a violation of this chapter as a misdemeanor or may impose a more restrictive program to control potentially dangerous or vicious dogs. Except as provided in Section 122331 of the Health and Safety Code, no program regulating any dog shall be specific as to breed.

Source: RWC Ch. 5 AnimalsView official code

Full Breakdown

Redwood City City Code Chapter 5 does not include a breed-specific ban. However, aggressive or dangerous dogs, regardless of breed, may be subject to enhanced requirements after an attack or threatening incident. Dangerous dog designations may require secure containment, muzzling in public, liability insurance, and mandatory microchipping. All dogs must be licensed with San Mateo County and current on rabies vaccinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are any dog breeds banned in Redwood City?
Redwood City does not ban specific dog breeds. All dogs must be licensed and vaccinated. Dogs deemed dangerous after an incident may face special restrictions including muzzling, confinement requirements, and liability insurance.
Are there pit bull restrictions in Redwood City?
Breed Ban: None. Dangerous Dogs: Enhanced requirements after incident. License Required: Yes (San Mateo County). Code: RWC City Code Ch. 5.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Redwood City

All Redwood City rules

How Redwood City compares: Cities with No Dog Breed Restrictions·California rules heatmap·Compare Redwood City to another location·View the California animal ordinances overview

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