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Boston's Pit Bull Ordinance

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When does the Responsible Pit Bull Ownership Ordinance go into effect?: THe ordinance went into effect on June 23, 2004. Read the full City Pit Bull Ordinance for additional information.

When will the citations go into effect?: August 1, 2004 is the date citations will begin to be issued for complying with the ordinance.

What type of muzzle should be used?: A muzzle is a restraining device made of metal, plastic, leather, cloth, or a combination of these materials that, when fitted and fastened over a dog's muzzle, prevents the dog from biting but allows the dog to breathe. A gentle leader is not considered a muzzle. If a dog needs to be muzzled for more than a few minutes or has to walk for more than a few feet while muzzled, a basket muzzle should be used to allow the dog to pant.

What muzzle is recommended?

The basket muzzle is recommended. This type of muzzle allows the dog to pant. There is no guarantee that an aggressive dog will not be able to get this muzzle off so be cautious if you know your dog has aggressive tendencies.

basket muzzle photo

Is a muzzle needed inside the home, apartment, or vehicle?: No, these are confined areas so a muzzle does not need to be used.

Who determines if the dog is a pit bull or a pit bull mix?: The Animal Control Officer's judgment will be the sole decision in determining if the dog is a pit bull or a pit bull mix.

Does the owner have a right to appeal?: Yes. a citation or classification can be subject to appeal by the owner or keeper of the dop by filing a written petition with the dog officer no later than seven (7) days after the date of impoundment or citation. A hearing concerning the dog classification will then be held.

What is the cost of the citation?: $100.00 per citation.

When will sign posting go into effect?: Immediately.

Where should the "Beware Dog" signs be located on the property?: Signs should be visible and legible from further than (i) the nearest public or private way or (ii) 100 feet.

What should the sign read?: "Beware of Dog" or "Pit Bull Dog."

What should the size of the sign be?: In any event, no sign may be less than 8.5 inches (8 1/2") by 11 inches (11") in rectangular dimensions or less than 11 inches (11") by 11 inches (11") in square dimensions.

What size lettering is allowed on the signs?: Letter wording should not be less than 2 inches (2") in height and must use lettering that sharply contrasts with the background color of the sign.

How many pitbulls are allowed?: No more than two (2) pit bulls should be registered, licensed, stored, housed, sheltered, or located in any single household with the exception of puppies less than nine (9) weeks of age. Puppy pit bulls less than nine weeks old shall not be included in the two-animal restriction.

Is a letter of permission needed from my landlord to own a Pit Bull?: Yes. If the owner of keep is not the owner of the premises at which the pitbull will be primarily housed/sheltered, then the owner or keeper shall obtain written permission of the landlord, leasor, property owner, or the duly authorize agent thereof for the presence and housing of the pit bull, and, unless previously submitted, shall submit the original written permission to the Animal Control Officer.

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Boston's Pit Bull Ordinance

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