Santa Monica Breed Restrictions Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

California Food and Agriculture Code Section 31683 explicitly prohibits cities, counties, and other local jurisdictions from enacting breed-specific legislation — ordinances that regulate, restrict, or prohibit the ownership of dogs based solely on their breed or perceived breed. This statewide preemption means Santa Monica cannot and does not ban, restrict, require special permits for, or impose additional regulations on any dog breed, including breeds sometimes targeted by BSL in other states, such as pit bull terriers, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, or German Shepherds.

Santa Monica's animal regulations under SMMC Chapter 4.04 address dangerous or vicious animals on an individual behavior basis. If an individual dog exhibits dangerous behavior — biting, attacking, or threatening persons or other animals — the City may initiate a dangerous animal hearing process through the City Manager's Office. A dog declared dangerous faces restrictions including mandatory enclosure, muzzling in public, liability insurance requirements, and potential euthanasia for severe cases. These designations are based entirely on the documented behavior of the specific animal and not on its breed or appearance. All dogs in Santa Monica, regardless of breed, must be licensed and have current rabies vaccinations.