# § 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.

## § 10-703 Vicious animals – Definition.

Balt., Md., Code § 10-703 (2026)

(a) In this subtitle, the following terms have the meanings indicated.

(b)

  (1) “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) “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) “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*