Kitimat rules for aggressive and dangerous dogs

What are the rules for aggressive or dangerous dogs in Kitimat?

Kitimat, British ColumbiaChecked against official textSources read 2026-11-06

How it works

Under Part 5, Division 5 of the Kitimat Municipal Code, an Animal Control Officer may designate a dog as a Dangerous Dog if it bites a human or animal without provocation, has a known tendency to attack a human or animal without provocation, or was previously designated and endangers a person or animal. The officer must tell the owner in writing.

Once designated, off the property the dog must be on a leash or tether of no more than 2 metres, wear a humane basket muzzle, and be under the immediate control of a competent person. At home it must be securely confined in a building or enclosure, with a "Dangerous Dog" sign on the fence or home. The owner must also report a move, sale, death or escape to the Animal Control Officer or Poundkeeper within set times. Breaking the conditions is grounds for impounding the dog.

Steps

1. To report a bite or aggressive dog, fill out the District's Bylaw Enforcement Complaint Form or call 250-632-8900. Written complaints start an investigation.
2. If your dog is designated, license it ($300), muzzle it, and post the sign.

Good to know

• Dangerous dog licence fee: $300. Impound fees for dangerous dogs are higher and are in the Animal Control fee schedule.
• Failure to muzzle, leash or control a dangerous dog: a bylaw notice is $500 ($450 if paid within 14 days); a municipal ticket is $3,000 ($2,500 if paid within 30 days).