Alabama § 45-49-170.23 - Grounds Insufficient to Declare Dog Dangerous or a Nuisance.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 45-49-170.23 — Grounds Insufficient to Declare Dog Dangerous or a Nuisance., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 45-49-170.23. Grounds Insufficient to Declare Dog Dangerous or a Nuisance.
(a) A dog may not be declared dangerous or a nuisance in any of the following circumstances:
(1) When an injury or damage was sustained by a person who, at the time of injury or damage, was committing a willful trespass or other tort upon premises occupied by the owner or custodian of the dog with the intent to commit a crime or was committing a crime, or was teasing, tormenting, abusing, or assaulting the dog, or who can be shown to have repeatedly, in the past, provoked, tormented, abused, or assaulted the dog.
(2) When the dog was protecting or defending a person within the immediate vicinity of the dog from an unjustified attack or assault.
(3) When the dog was responding to pain or injury or protecting itself, its kennel, or its offspring.
(4) When a person or domestic animal was disturbing the natural functions of the dog such as sleeping or eating.
(b) Neither growling nor barking, or both, shall alone constitute grounds upon which to find a dog to be dangerous or a nuisance.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 45-49-170.23
What does Code of Alabama § 45-49-170.23 cover?
Section 45-49-170.23 ("Grounds Insufficient to Declare Dog Dangerous or a Nuisance.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 45-49-170.23?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 45-49-170.23" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 45-49-170.23 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.