Safety Harbor, FL Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- State preemption
- FS 767.14 controls
- Breed bans
- Prohibited
- Weight or size limits
- Prohibited
- Dangerous-dog basis
- Individual behavior
- Effective
- October 1, 2023
Summary
Florida Statute 767.14 preempts breed-specific dog regulations statewide. Safety Harbor cannot ban or restrict any dog by breed, weight, or size. Dangerous-dog rules apply based on individual behavior, not breed.
767.14 Additional local restrictions authorized. — This act does not limit any local government or public housing authority from adopting an ordinance or a policy, respectively, to address the safety and welfare concerns caused by attacks on persons or domestic animals; placing further restrictions or additional requirements on owners of dogs that have bitten or attacked persons or domestic animals; or developing procedures and criteria for the implementation of this act, provided that no such regulation is specific to breed, weight, or size and that the provisions of this act are not lessened by such additional regulations or requirements.
Full Breakdown
Since October 1, 2023, Florida Statute 767.14 prohibits any local government from adopting ordinances restricting dogs based on breed, size, or weight. The 2023 amendment removed the prior grandfather clause, ending the last breed-specific ban in Florida. Safety Harbor therefore cannot enforce pit bull, Rottweiler, or similar breed restrictions. Dangerous-dog determinations under Chapter 767 must be based on individual behavior such as severe bites or unprovoked attacks. Owners of dogs declared dangerous face registration, secure-enclosure, signage, and liability-insurance obligations administered through Pinellas County Animal Services.
Violations & Fines
Local breed-based rules are unenforceable. Dangerous-dog violations under state law can include misdemeanor or felony charges and animal confiscation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Safety Harbor ban pit bulls?
What makes a dog dangerous under Florida law?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Safety Harbor
How Safety Harbor compares: Cities with No Dog Breed Restrictions·Florida rules heatmap·Compare Safety Harbor to another location·View the Florida animal ordinances overview
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Breed Restrictions in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Pinellas County handle breed restrictions.