Pit Bulls often spark passionate debates, with opinions ranging from loving admiration to cautious concern. In some cities, this controversy has led to strict bans or restrictions on owning these loyal, misunderstood dogs. Whether out of safety concerns or local legislation, these bans shape the lives of Pit Bull owners and advocates. Here, we take a closer look at 15 cities where Pit Bulls aren’t welcome—and explore the reasons behind these restrictions. Could your city be on the list? Read on to find out.
1. Denver, Colorado
Denver has had a Pitbull ban since 1989. However, in 2020, residents voted to soften the restrictions a bit. Pitbulls are still banned, but limited ownership is allowed if owners follow strict rules, like breed assessments, special licenses, and insurance coverage. It’s a small victory for many dog lovers.
2. Miami-Dade County, Florida
This Florida county has banned Pitbulls since 1989. Over the years, attempts to overturn the ban have consistently failed, as officials cite safety concerns. Pitbull advocates continue to fight for change, arguing it’s more about stereotyping than safety.
3. Prince George’s County, Maryland
Prince George’s County has had a Pitbull ban for over two decades. Officials say it’s about public safety, but many residents feel it unfairly targets responsible owners. The conversation about lifting the ban has gained steam in recent years.
4. Ontario, Canada
Ontario enforces a province-wide ban on Pitbulls that’s been in place since 2005. While dogs already living there at the time were allowed to stay, they faced strict rules. This ban remains one of the most controversial BSLs, as many say it’s overly harsh and outdated.
5. Council Bluffs, Iowa
Pitbulls have been prohibited in Council Bluffs since 2005. The city points to safety as the main reason, but critics have long argued that it’s a knee-jerk reaction with more impact on responsible pet owners than public safety.
6. Sioux City, Iowa
Sioux City adopted its ban in 2008. The community remains split over it, with ongoing discussions about whether it’s time to repeal or soften the rules. Like many places with BSL, it’s a polarizing topic here.
7. Independence, Missouri
This city enforces a strict ban on Pitbulls, but recent years have seen increased advocacy for change. Residents continue to push for more progressive policies that focus on individual behavior, not breed.
8. Louisville, Colorado
In Louisville, Pitbulls are outright banned. While it’s a smaller city, this hasn’t stopped residents from pushing back. Many believe the focus should be on responsible ownership instead of banning breeds outright.
9. Aurora, Colorado
Aurora has strict bans on Pitbulls, but attitudes are shifting. There’s been growing momentum toward changing or even lifting the ban, as advocates stress responsible pet ownership over discrimination based on breed.
10. Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast became the center of global attention during the “Lennox case,” which highlighted the harshness of its breed-specific laws. Despite emotional appeals, Belfast has maintained its restrictions on Pitbull-type dogs.
11. Overland Park, Kansas
In Overland Park, owning a Pitbull could land you in hot water. The ban is strict, and residents risk hefty fines or even having their pets taken if they’re found in violation. It’s a policy that has sparked plenty of heated conversations over the years.
12. Lancaster, Ohio
Lancaster has stringent rules for Pitbull ownership. While the breed isn’t outright banned, owning one comes with a long list of conditions, making it difficult for potential owners to comply.
13. Garfield Heights, Ohio
Garfield Heights enforces a Pitbull ban, and violations come with penalties. Despite the restrictions, many locals continue to advocate for change, arguing that breed-specific laws do more harm than good.
14. Yakima, Washington
Yakima’s Pitbull ban has been in place for years, with safety cited as the key concern. Efforts to repeal it have been met with mixed success, reflecting broader public debates about breed-based regulations.
15. Springfield, Missouri
Springfield’s law prohibits Pitbulls, but it’s faced consistent calls for review. Advocates are pressing hard to change the law, arguing that responsible ownership should be prioritized over blanket bans.
