Seminole, FL Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Breed bans
- Preempted by state law
- Governing statute
- FS 767.14
- Dangerous dog standard
- Behavior-based
- Pit bulls allowed
- Yes
- Insurance for dangerous dogs
- Required
Summary
Florida state law preempts breed-specific dog regulations. Under FS 767.14, Seminole cannot enact breed bans. The city may regulate dangerous dogs based on individual behavior, not breed type.
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. History. - s. 5, ch. 90-180; s. 5, ch. 2016-16; s. 1, ch. 2023-253.
Full Breakdown
Florida Statute 767.14 prohibits municipalities from enacting any ordinance or rule that is specific to a dog breed. This means Seminole cannot ban or restrict pit bulls, Rottweilers, or any other breed. The city must rely on the state's dangerous dog framework under FS 767.10-767.16, which classifies dogs as dangerous based on documented aggressive behavior, attacks, or threats. Owners of dogs declared dangerous must comply with confinement, registration, insurance, and signage requirements. Pinellas County also enforces these state-level rules.
Violations & Fines
Violating dangerous dog requirements after a declaration can result in misdemeanor charges, fines up to $500, and potential court-ordered euthanasia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Seminole ban pit bulls?
How does Seminole address dangerous dogs?
What happens if my dog is declared dangerous?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Seminole
How Seminole compares: Cities with No Dog Breed Restrictions·Florida rules heatmap·Compare Seminole 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.