Sec. 3-142. Irresponsible owners
Codified through Bill No. CB-018-2026, adopted May 12, 2026, effective July 24, 2026. Source: Municode, Supplement 2026 Update 2. Editorial notes and legislative history omitted.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 3-142 (2026)
Sec. 3-142. Irresponsible ownersLinkCopy Citation
(a)
An owner or custodian shall be declared to be an irresponsible owner if:
(1)
they allow their animal to inflict bites on a human or another domesticated animal either on public or private property;
(2)
they allow their animal to chase or approach a person in a menacing fashion or apparent attitude of attack, or with a known propensity, tendency, or disposition to attack unprovoked, to cause injury, or otherwise to threaten the safety of humans or animals;
(3)
they fail to provide proper care and treatment for an animal;
(4)
they fail to provide humane training for appropriate temperament and response;
(5)
they fail to take precautions to abate aggressive behavior; prevent an imminent threat, assault or disturbance; or ensure surrounding circumstances and environment do not create or give rise to potentially dangerous situations.
(b)
An irresponsible owner may be banned from owning, possessing, or caring for animals for up to five (5) years subject to the right to petition the Board for a waiver based on good cause shown.
(c)
The Commission may mandate dangerous animal restrictions for any violations of this Section.
(d)
Nothing in this Division shall be construed to exempt any animal owner or custodian from compliance of the requirements for responsible animal ownership. An animal owner or custodian found guilty of provisions of this Division shall be declared to be an irresponsible owner.