Twin Falls, ID Animal Ordinances: Breed Restrictions (2026)

Twin Falls regulates dangerous dogs by behavior. The definition of vicious dog in § 6-4-1 covers a dog that has bitten, clawed or otherwise harmed, or constitutes a physical threat, or a dog whose temperament or habits endanger or menace any person or other animal without provocation by such person or animal. The term does not include a dog that bites, attacks or menaces a person or other animal that has tormented or injured the dog. The definition does not name any breed. Breed appears in the chapter as a record-keeping detail: the license application in § 6-4-3(B)1 asks for the breed of each dog, and kennel records under § 6-4-9(B)3 list it. Neither provision restricts a breed.

Section 6-4-14(I) turns the definition into a prohibition. It is unlawful for any person to own, have custody of or control any dog or any other animal which is vicious or dangerous. The offense is a misdemeanor punishable by up to one hundred twenty days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine, and a civil penalty of $100 can be assessed in addition.

Section 6-4-15 gives the court two further tools. Upon conviction or a guilty plea for the crime of dog at large or vicious dog, the court can order the dog surrendered immediately to the animal control officer or a police officer for disposal, or can order the violator to post a bond or certificate of insurance in the amount of $10,000.

Section 6-4-16 allows early action. Where a person has been charged or cited with owning or having custody of a vicious or dangerous dog or other animal, the City Attorney can file a motion requesting destruction of the animal before a final adjudication of the criminal charges. The animal remains confined at the animal shelter pending the decision. The court can order destruction on finding that the animal is vicious as defined in the chapter and that it poses a danger to the public if released from confinement.