Clearwater vs Dunedin
How do breed restrictions rules compare between Clearwater, FL and Dunedin, FL?
Dunedin has fewer restrictions than Clearwater.
Clearwater, FL
Pinellas County
Clearwater cannot restrict dogs by breed under Florida Statute 767.14 as amended in 2023, but enforces individual dangerous-dog rules under Chapter 8 based on behavior.
View full Clearwater rules →Dunedin, FL
Pinellas County
Dunedin cannot enforce breed-specific dog ordinances. Florida Statute 767.14, amended in 2023, preempts all local governments from adopting or enforcing rules that single out a particular breed, weight, or size of dog.
View full Dunedin rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Clearwater | Dunedin |
|---|---|---|
| State preemption | FS 767.14 since 2023 | - |
| Standard | Behavior, not breed | - |
| Local code | Chapter 8 | - |
| Dangerous dog law | FS Chapter 767 | - |
| Breed bans allowed | - | No, preempted by state |
| Governing statute | - | Fla. Stat. 767.14 |
| Effective date | - | October 1, 2023 |
| Behavior rules apply | - | Yes, dangerous dog law |
| HOA exception | - | Private deed restrictions allowed |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Clearwater FAQ
Are pit bulls legal in Clearwater Florida?
Yes. Florida Statute 767.14 prohibits Clearwater from banning or restricting any specific dog breed. Owners must still comply with leash, licensing, and dangerous-dog rules that apply to all dogs.
How is a dog declared dangerous in Clearwater?
Pinellas County Animal Services investigates bite or aggression reports. After hearings under FS 767.12, a dog can be classified dangerous, requiring secure enclosure, muzzling in public, and owner liability coverage.
Dunedin FAQ
Are pit bulls legal in Dunedin?
Yes. Florida law preempts any local breed-specific ban, so pit bulls and any other breed are legal in Dunedin so long as the dog is not declared dangerous.
Can my HOA still ban certain breeds?
Yes. The state preemption applies to local governments. Private homeowner associations and deed-restricted communities may still enforce breed restrictions in their governing documents.
What rules apply to aggressive dogs?
Florida Chapter 767 lets the city declare a dog dangerous after an unprovoked bite or attack, requiring secure confinement, registration, signage, and liability coverage regardless of breed.
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