Prince George's County repeals 27-year pit bull ban, focusing on behavior, not breed, with new safety and adoption rules.

Prince George's County has repealed its 27-year-old ban on pit bull-type dogs, passing Council Bill 097-2025 to shift focus from breed to behavior in animal control. The new law strengthens leash requirements, increases civil penalties for dangerous dog violations, and launches a pilot program allowing adoptable pit bull-type dogs to be fostered or adopted under strict conditions, including permits, training, and spaying or neutering. Existing dogs are grandfathered in. The change, supported by animal advocates and driven by concerns over the ban’s high enforcement cost and ineffectiveness, aims to reduce unnecessary euthanasia and promote responsible ownership. The bill now awaits the County Executive’s signature.