§ 10-703 Vicious animals – Definition.
Current through 2026-07-17. Source: City of Balt., Md., Ord. 26-129. Published by the Baltimore City Department of Legislative Reference.
Balt., Md., Code § 10-703 (2026)
§ 10-703 Vicious animals – Definition.LinkCopy Citation
(a)In general.
In this subtitle, the following terms have the meanings indicated.
(b)Vicious animal.
(1)In general.
“Vicious animal” means any animal that:
(i)
has severely bitten or attacked a human being or another animal; or
(ii)
has been previously deemed dangerous, and subsequently bitten or attacked a human being or other animal so that the Health Commissioner determines that the animal should be immediately euthanized to protect the health, safety, or welfare of the public.
(2)Exclusions – Instigation by other.
“Vicious animal” does not include an animal that has bitten or attacked if the injury, damage, was sustained by one who:
(i)
at the time was committing a willful trespass or other tort on the premises occupied by the owner or custodian of the animal;
(ii)
was tormenting, abusing, or assaulting the animal;
(iii)
in the past has been observed or reported to have tormented, abused, or assaulted the animal; or
(iv)
was committing or attempting to commit a crime.
(3)Exclusions – Protecting self or others or in pain.
“Vicious animal” does not include an animal that has bitten or attacked if the animal was:
(i)
protecting or defending itself, its young, or another animal;
(ii)
responding to pain or injury; or
(iii)
protecting or defending a human being within the immediate vicinity of the animal from physical attack or assault.
History: Ord. 99-548
History: Ord. 00-073
History: Ord. 11-573