Pit Bull Permits
Prince George’s County has started a pilot program (CB-97-2025) for Pit Bull–type dogs, enacted February 2, 2026. This change helps residents understand how these dog breeds can be owned, adopted, and cared for legally in the County.
CB‑97‑2025 removes Animal Control Section 3‑185.01 from the Prince George’s County Code and allows Pit Bull Terriers to be legally owned and adopted in the County as long as long as they’re registered and all requirements are met.
Interested adopters are encouraged to complete the Pet Parenting Certification prior to coming to the Animal Services and Adoption Facility. The module can take up to an hour and adopters must pass with a score of at least 70% before a Certificate of Completion is issued.
Complete the Pet Parenting Certification Today
What Dogs Are Included?
When the County says, “Pit Bull Terrier,” it means these three breeds:
- American Pit Bull Terrier
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
What Is Allowed Now?
You can adopt a Pit Bull if all rules are followed. You may also foster a Pit Bull through the Animal Services Division.
If You Adopt or Currently Own a Pit Bull, You MUST:
- Register the dog and obtain an annual Pit Bull Permit. Requirements for the permit include:
- Proof of current rabies vaccination
- Proof that the dog is microchipped
- Proof the dog is spayed/neutered (exhibition is the only exception)
- Certificate of Completion for PGC Pet Parenting Class
- Signed Responsibility Agreement
- Apply for and pay for annual County license
Spay or Neuter Requirement
All Pit Bulls must be spayed or neutered. The only exception is dogs used for approved exhibitions and documentation must be provided.
Important Reporting Rules
You must contact Animal Services within 8 hours if:
- the dog escapes or goes missing
- the dog bites or attacks a person or another animal
You must contact Animal Services within 24 hours if:
- The dog dies
- The owner changes
- The dog moves to a new address
Contact the Animal Services Division to report incidents or changes by calling 301-780-7200, option 8.
Home Checks
Animal Services may inspect the dog and the home. Inspections will be at reasonable times with notice for health, safety, and rule compliance
Penalties
- No permit = $300 fine
- Breaking permit rules = $300 fine
Violations can also affect your permit or lead to more penalties.
Additional Animal Control Ordinance Changes
CB-97-2025 also issues new leash law requirements, updates definitions for "animal at large" and "dangerous dog" and the fines associated.