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Topeka Vicious Animal Ordinance

This is an overview of the Topeka Vicious Dog Law:

If your animal bites or scratches another person, you must notify the City Public Health Officer.

If your animal is reported as being vicious, an ACO (Animal Control Officer) will be dispatched to investigate. If the ACO determines probable cause exists, the officer will seize and impound your animal (or give you the opportunity to impound your animal with your veterinarian) until the conclusion of court charges. If convicted, you may be fined $250 - $499. The judge may order you to confine or destroy your animal. If you are convicted a second time within seven years of your first conviction you face five to 30 days in jail and fines of $350 - $499.

Topeka has a separate Pit Bull Dog Ordinance:

A Staffordshire bull terrier, American Staffordshire terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier or a dog with the appearance and characteristics of being predominantly of any of these breeds falls under the Pit Bull Dog ordinance.

A Pit Bull dog must be specially licensed, microchipped, leashed, muzzled and very specific rules of confinement apply if the dog resides within Topeka city limits.

If any of these rules are not followed, you face fines ranging from $200 - $499, possible jail time, registration/permit revocation and removal of the dog from the city.

For more information regarding the City of Topeka Animal Ordinances, please contact the Topeka Police Department Animal Control Office
from 8 am to 5 pm weekdays at 785-368-9484.

To Report Animal Complaints 24 Hours/Day:
Animal Control Dispatcher, 785-368-9203