Denver’s Pit Bull Ban Repealed! But that’s not the end of the story…

Denver’s pit bull ban was repealed by a 64% margin! It will go into effect in January. The new law will create a permitting system for “pit bulls,” also known as American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Staffordshire Bull Terriers. So technically, pit bulls are only “legal” if the pit bull owner registers his/her dog with Denver Animal Protection under a “breed-restricted permit.” This will also require the owner to set up a breed assessment with Denver Animal Protection at a cost of $25. Our Colorado animal lawyers have the knowledge and know-how to help you and your pittie safely navigate these changes.

The permit will require an owner to provide his/her name and address where the dog will reside, two emergency contacts, an accurate description of the pit bull, an annual fee (of $30 that must be renewed every year for at least 3 years), proof of rabies vaccination, proof of spay/neuter (unless you have an “intact” exception permit), proof of a city license, proof the dog was microchipped, and “any other information DAP reasonably requires.”

Denver residents may own up to two pit bulls per home. If the dog does not pick up any charges for three consecutive years, the pet owners will be allowed to register their pit bull like any other dog in Denver (meaning: just a regular license).

Examples of potential violations include, but are not limited to:

• Off-leash charge
• Lapsed permit charge
• Excrement charge
• Bite charge
• Excessive barking charge
• Potentially dangerous animal/dangerous animal charge

Each violation will result in starting the three-year time period over from the beginning, and/or other consequences. “Other consequences” usually means catching a charge for potentially dangerous animal, which also carries a permitting requirement (at $300/year), in addition to muzzling and caging your dog. A dangerous dog charge carries a penalty of not allowing your dog in the Denver city limits. So make sure you call an experienced animal lawyer if you are facing any of these charges!

In order to reapply for a Breed-Restricted Permit, owners and keepers must show proof that the violation has been corrected.

DON’T FORGET: Lone Tree and Louisville still have bans on pit bulls.

Call our animal attorneys today at 303-623-4000 for a free 30 minute consultation to find out how we can help you.