Breed Restrictions: Tulare vs Visalia

Can Tulare ban pit bulls?

No. California Food & Ag. Code § 31683 forbids any city or county program for controlling potentially dangerous or vicious dogs from being breed-specific. Tulare cannot declare pit bulls (or any other breed) vicious based on breed alone. The statute does carve out an exception for breed-specific spay/neuter and breeding programs, but Tulare's spay/neuter ordinance applies to all dogs and cats, not just one breed.

Do I have to spay or neuter my dog in Tulare?

Functionally, yes — unless you obtain an Unaltered Animal Certification. TMC §§ 6.12.380 and following adopt a citywide spay/neuter requirement; the city license is conditioned on either proof of alteration or a valid unaltered-animal certificate issued under TMC § 6.12.410. Tulare-area vets confirm pets residing inside city limits must be altered as a licensing condition.

How does a dog get declared 'dangerous' or 'vicious'?

Through a hearing under Cal. Food & Ag. Code §§ 31621–31683. A dog is 'potentially dangerous' if, on two or more occasions in 36 months, it engages in unprovoked aggressive behavior, or if it bites without provocation. 'Vicious' is reserved for severe attacks or for a potentially dangerous dog that re-offends. The hearing is breed-neutral and based on the individual dog's conduct.

Am I strictly liable if my dog bites someone in Tulare?

Yes. California Civil Code § 3342 imposes strict liability on dog owners for bite injuries to any person lawfully on private property or in any public place, regardless of the dog's prior viciousness or the owner's knowledge. Tulare follows this state rule — there is no local override.

Are pit bulls banned in Visalia?

No. California state law prohibits breed-specific bans. No dog breeds are banned in Visalia.

What happens if my dog bites someone in Visalia?

Your dog may be classified as dangerous or potentially dangerous, requiring secure enclosures, special restraint, and liability insurance.