Takoma Park, MD Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)

Takoma Park does not have any breed-specific dog regulations. Maryland addressed the issue statewide in 2014 when the General Assembly passed HB 73, which eliminated the common-law strict liability standard previously applied specifically to pit bull owners following the 2012 Tracey v. Solesky Court of Appeals decision. Under current Maryland law (Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article 3-1901), all dog owners are subject to the same negligence standard regardless of breed. An owner is liable for damages if the dog is running at large in violation of local law, or if the owner knew or should have known the dog was dangerous. Montgomery County Code Chapter 5 (Animal Control) governs dog regulation in Takoma Park. All dogs must be licensed annually through Montgomery County and carry current rabies vaccination. Dogs deemed dangerous or potentially dangerous -- based on behavior, not breed -- are subject to additional requirements under the county's dangerous animal provisions, including secure enclosures, muzzling in public, and increased liability insurance. Takoma Park's progressive values align with the trend against breed-specific legislation.