Denver voters have recently been informed of a potential Pit Bull Permit Registration measure being placed on November 3rd’s ballot. Without knowledge of breed specific legislation, it can be difficult to feel like one is making an informed vote on this decision. The general public can always stand to be informed about Breed specific legislation, where it exists, and how to navigate living with a restricted breed.
This information is not intended to be taken as legal advice, but a collection of resources for those who would like to further learn about breed specific legislation in Colorado.
What is “BSL”?
Breed specific legislation, often referred to as “BSL”, is a type of law restricting/prohibiting certain breeds or types of dogs with the intention of decreasing dog attacks. While breeds may be more well defined, the type of dog generally referred to as a “Pitt Bull” is not a breed, but a series of traits a dog may possess. The city of Denver defines it as, “...any dog displaying the majority of physical traits of any one or more of the above breeds, or any dog exhibiting those distinguishing (physical) characteristics, which substantially conform to the standards established by American Kennel Club or United Kennel Club.” The breeds whose characteristics are used for the assessment include American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, or Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Cities like Lamar have a different kind of breed specific legislation: instead of an outright ban of the breed, the city requires all Pit Bulls be spayed/neutered.
Where is there Breed Specific Legislation?
Colorado cities differ in their restrictions and penalties, and the best way to know exactly how to navigate is to read the legislation itself (linked below).
Denver - 1989, Pit Bulls
Aurora - 2005, Pit Bulls
Commerce City - 2005, Pit Bulls
Lone Tree - It’s Complicated, Pit Bulls
Louisville - 2011, Pit Bulls
Honorable Mention: Lamar requires all Pit Bulls dogs to be spayed/neutered
While researching the information for this blog, most sources were found to be outdated and/or slanted toward viewing Pit Bulls as dangerous animals. Castle Rock and Fort Lupton ended their Pit Bull ban recently after efforts from shelters like Dumb Friends League proved effective. Lone Tree’s legislation has been updated throughout the years, as it formerly included other breeds with “fighting reputations,” such as cane corsos, canary dogs, American Bulldogs, etc. Earlier this year, Denver Mayor Michael Hancock vetoed a measure to legalize Pit Bulls in Denver. The mayor’s concern was mainly his own dog bite experience as a child and complaints/concerns about off-leash dogs. Legislation is constantly changing, and the best way to stay up to date is to check each city’s latest legislation.
How Do I Navigate?
While the “how” of navigating is up to each family, it can be helpful to know where Pit Bulls are welcome. As it comes to renting, rental companies and landlords each have their own specific guidelines. Many may advertise their restrictions, but it’s best to ask up front if there are any restrictions/guidelines as to what pets are allowed in the home.
For those looking to move to a “pibble city,” the West side of Denver does not have any sort of Breed Specific Legislation. This area includes cities like Littleton, Lakewood, Arvada, Morrison, Golden, and Wheatridge. For our friends who would still like to be near Douglas County, Parker, Elizabeth, Kiowa, Castle Rock, Centennial, Highlands Ranch, and Greenwood Village welcome Pit Bulls.
As mentioned previously, legislation is being revised and rewritten every day - research and studies are being used to change the narrative surrounding Pit Bulls. The intention in these laws are to protect the general public, but have had unforeseen consequences like excessive euthanasia of healthy dogs and discrimination against people of color and/or lower income families. Whether or not a Pit Bulls is a part of your family, this legislation affects everyone in Colorado. What kind of growth/change could Denver and Aurora see if this legislation was reversed?
What Do I Do?
“I LIVE IN DENVER!” - V O T E !
Vote on November 3rd to replace the current outright ban of Pit Bulls in Denver with a Pit Bull registry of non-violent dogs.
“I don’t live in Denver, but I’d love to help” - Tell your friends in Denver to vote for Pit Bull legalization.
In the last two years alone, two cities have repealed their Breed Specific Legislation, with quite a few more adjusting or relaxing their guidelines. Denver and Aurora have brought the legislation through various reviews, whether by cities or voters themselves. These outdated breed specific legislation bans are being replaced through intelligent discussion and logical problem solving. With the way things are trending, it looks like the future is bright for our pibble friends.
If you’re looking for more info or advice, contact me! I’d love to help!
