California prohibits breed-specific bans, so San Rafael cannot ban a breed outright; only breed-specific spay/neuter rules are allowed. Dangerous dogs are regulated by behavior.
No breed is banned in San Rafael, and none can be: California's Food & Agricultural Code §31683 prohibits local breed-specific bans. The one breed-specific tool the state allows is a mandatory spay/neuter program. Beyond that, dog regulation runs on behavior — a dog that bites, threatens or runs at large faces consequences regardless of breed, and a gentle dog faces none regardless of reputation. Owners of commonly restricted breeds should note that landlords and insurers may impose their own rules; the city just cannot.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
San Rafael, CA
§19.20.080(4) prohibits the use of amplified sound in city parks and buildings without a permit. Combined with the citywide §8.13 noise limits, this is the m...
San Rafael, CA
Parking or storing large commercial vehicles in San Rafael residential zones is restricted by zoning, with weight/length thresholds limiting what may be kept...
San Rafael, CA
RV, trailer and boat storage on residential lots in San Rafael is regulated by zoning, which restricts placement and prohibits living in a parked RV. The cit...
San Rafael, CA
Driveway approaches in San Rafael require an encroachment permit and must meet city standards; vehicles generally must be parked on an approved paved surface...
San Rafael, CA
§5.40.040(1) makes it unlawful to repair or wash any motor vehicle on a city street. Routine driveway washing and minor home maintenance are not affected, bu...
San Rafael, CA
A building/zoning permit is generally required in San Rafael for fences over 6 feet or masonry/retaining walls; pool barrier fences must meet the California ...
See how San Rafael's breed restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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