Salt Lake City, UT Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Basis
- behavior, not breed
- Insurance required
- $300,000 liability minimum
- Leash limit off-property
- 6 feet, muzzled
- Vicious hold period
- 10 days before euthanasia
Summary
Salt Lake City classifies dogs as dangerous or vicious by documented behavior, not breed: no dog breed is banned or singled out by name in the city code.
DANGEROUS ANIMAL: Any animal which is properly classified as dangerous in accordance with the pertinent written standards developed by the office of animal services... A dangerous animal must be securely confined indoors or in a securely enclosed and locked pen or structure... The animal shall be fitted with an identification microchip.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-21: Code current through: Ord. 40-26, passed June 16, 2026).
Full Breakdown
The office of animal services classifies an animal as potentially dangerous, dangerous, or vicious based on investigated incidents measured against its written standards, never by breed. A dangerous-animal owner must get an annual permit, secure the dog behind a locked, escape-proof enclosure, post warning signs, carry $300,000 in liability insurance, and microchip the animal. A vicious classification means impoundment, with euthanasia after 10 days unless the owner appeals. Off-property movement requires a muzzle and a leash no longer than 6 feet under an adult handler's control.
Violations & Fines
Citation for violating containment/permit terms after classification; a vicious animal is impounded and may be euthanized after a 10-day hold if the owner does not appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Salt Lake City ban pit bulls or any dog breed?
What must an owner do once a dog is classified dangerous?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Salt Lake City
How Salt Lake City compares: Cities with No Dog Breed Restrictions·Compare Salt Lake City to another location·View the Utah animal ordinances overview
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Breed Restrictions in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Salt Lake County handle breed restrictions.