District Of Columbia § 8-1801 - Definitions.
Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 8-1801 — Definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8-1801. Definitions.
8-1801For the purposes of this subchapter:
The term “animal at large” means any animal found off the premises of its owner and neither leashed nor otherwise under the immediate control of a person capable of physically restraining it.
The term “at large” does not include a dog in a dog park that is under the verbal command of a responsible adult.
The term “animal shelter” means a District of Columbia government facility used by the Animal Care and Control Agency for the care and detention of animals.
The term “dangerous animal” means an animal that because of specific training or demonstrated behavior threatens the health or safety of the public. The term “dangerous animal” does not include a dangerous dog as defined in .
The term “District-owned parkland” means outdoor property within the possession and control of the government of the District of Columbia.
The term “dog park” means an officially established off-leash dog exercise area on District-owned or federal parkland.
The term “Mayor” means the Mayor of the District of Columbia or his designee.
The term “owner” means a person in the District of Columbia who purchases or keeps an animal in temporary or permanent custody except as provided in .
The term “vaccinated” means protected by a documented inoculation that the Mayor, consistent with the practices of veterinary medicine, determines is currently effective.
Annotations
Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 8-1801
What does D.C. Code § 8-1801 cover?
Section 8-1801 ("Definitions.") is part of the D.C. Code, the codified statutory law of District Of Columbia. 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 District Of Columbia § 8-1801?
A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 8-1801" (District Of Columbia). 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 District Of Columbia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the District Of Columbia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed District Of Columbia attorney.
How does District Of Columbia § 8-1801 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia 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 District Of Columbia.