Aggressive dogs at large — fines and Dangerous Dog triggers
Charleston
Summary
Dogs repeatedly charged as aggressive could now be impounded on a second offense, with higher fines and possible dangerous-dog requirements like fencing, muzzles, and insurance.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 4
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Aug 3, 2026.
Impact analysis
Fines rise from up to $50 to up to $150; owners of dangerous dogs may face insurance costs.
Neighbors and pet owners worried about aggressive dogs repeatedly running loose.
Owners of repeat aggressive dogs face impoundment and higher fines.
Mentions & discussions (4)
City Council - Aug 3, 2026
The new ordinance lets the city impound a dog that's been deemed aggressive twice if it's found loose again, and raises fines for repeat offenses — responding to neighborhoods terrorized by dogs whose owners skipped court.
Public Safety Committee - Aug 3, 2026
Dogs repeatedly charged as aggressive could now be impounded on a second offense, with higher fines and possible dangerous-dog requirements like fencing, muzzles, and insurance.
Ordinance and Rules Committee - Jul 6, 2026
Bill 8078 raises fines for aggressive dogs running loose and automatically triggers a Dangerous Dog review after a second offense within 24 months. Members questioned why the fine for an aggressive dog could be lower than the fine for leaving dog waste.
City Council - May 18, 2026
New bills would strengthen penalties for animal poisoning/cruelty and tighten rules on aggressive dogs at large, including automatic triggers for the dangerous-dog process on repeat offenses.
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