§ 7-219. Pit bull dogs.

(a)

Unlawful to keep. It shall be unlawful to keep, harbor, own or in any way possess within the city limits any pit bull dog. As used in this section, the term "pit bull dog" is defined to mean:

(1)

The Staffordshire bull terrier breed of dog;

(2)

The American pit bull terrier breed of dog;

(3)

The American Staffordshire terrier breed of dog;

(4)

Any dog which has the appearance and characteristics of being predominantly of the breeds of Staffordshire bull terrier, American pit bull terrier, American Staffordshire terrier, or any combination of any of these breeds.

(b)

No further exceptions. There are no longer exceptions for pit bulls registered with the city as of May 9, 1990, or pit bulls kept as of December 31, 1991, at those locations within the area annexed by Ordinance No. 65653, as there are no pit bulls currently living that were registered as of those relevant dates.

(c)

Violations and penalties. Any person violating or permitting the violation of any provision of this section shall, upon conviction in municipal court, be fined a sum not less than $300.00 and not more than $1,000.00. In addition to the fine imposed, the court may sentence the defendant to imprisonment in the county jail for a period not to exceed 90 days. Should the defendant refuse to remove the dog from the city, the municipal court judge shall find the defendant owner in contempt and order the immediate confiscation and impoundment of the animal. Each day that a violation of this section continues shall be deemed a separate offense. In addition to the foregoing penalties, any person who violates this section shall pay all expenses, including shelter, food, handling, veterinary care, and testimony necessitated by the enforcement of this section.

(Code 1988, § 7-130; Ord. No. O-22-03, § 1, 6-5-2003)