Breed Restrictions: Mission Viejo vs Newport Beach

Are pit bulls or Rottweilers banned in Orange County?

No. California Food & Agricultural Code 31683 bars cities and counties from passing breed-specific dog bans or restrictions. Orange County instead regulates individual dogs through its potentially-dangerous and vicious dog process under OCCO 4-1-23 and 4-1-95.

Can Orange County ever treat my dog differently because of its breed?

Not for dangerous-dog purposes. State law (31683) allows only a narrow breed-specific spay/neuter or breeding exception. Any restrictions OC Animal Care places on your dog must be based on that dog's own conduct, such as a bite or attack, not its breed.

Are pit bulls banned in Newport Beach?

No. California state law (Government Code Section 31683) prohibits cities from enacting breed-specific bans. No dog breed is banned in Newport Beach. Individual dogs may face restrictions if declared dangerous or vicious based on their behavior.

What happens if a dog is declared dangerous in Newport Beach?

A dog declared potentially dangerous or vicious under California law may face requirements including secure enclosure, muzzling in public, liability insurance, and compliance with conditions set by OC Animal Care. Severe cases may result in humane destruction.

Am I liable if my dog bites someone in Newport Beach?

Yes. Under California Civil Code Section 3342, dog owners are strictly liable for damages when their dog bites another person, regardless of breed or prior history. This applies whether the bite occurs on public or private property.