District Of Columbia § 8-1901 - Definitions.
Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 8-1901 — Definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8-1901. Definitions.
8-1901For the purposes of this chapter, the term:
“Dangerous dog” means any dog that without provocation:
Causes a serious injury to a person or domestic animal; or
Engages in behavior described in paragraph (4)(A)(i) of this section subsequent to having been determined to be a potentially dangerous dog pursuant to .
The term “dangerous dog” shall not include dogs used by law enforcement officials when the dog is being used for legitimate law enforcement purposes.
“Impound” means taken into the custody of the Mayor.
“Owner” means any person, firm, corporation, organization, or department possessing, harboring, keeping, having an interest in, or having control or custody of a dog.
“Potentially dangerous dog” means any dog that:
Without provocation, chases or menaces a person or domestic animal in an aggressive manner, causing an injury to a person or domestic animal that is less severe than a serious injury;
In a menacing manner, approaches without provocation any person or domestic animal as if to attack, or has demonstrated a propensity to attack without provocation or otherwise to endanger the safety of human beings or domestic animals; or
Is running at-large and has been impounded by an animal control agency 3 or more times in the District within any 12-month period.
The term “potentially dangerous dog” shall not include dogs used by law enforcement officials when the dog is being used for legitimate law enforcement purposes.
“Proper enclosure” means secure confinement indoors or secure confinement outdoors in a locked structure designed and constructed to:
Deter escape of the dog;
Protect the dog from the elements; and
Prevent contact with the dog from humans and other domestic animals.
“Serious injury” means any physical injury that results in broken bones or lacerations requiring multiple sutures or cosmetic surgery.
Annotations
Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 8-1901
What does D.C. Code § 8-1901 cover?
Section 8-1901 ("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 § 8-1901?
A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 8-1901" (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 § 8-1901 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
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