Published on November 06, 2024
At its October 22 meeting, the Addison City Council approved an ordinance amending Chapter 54 of the Town's Municipal Code to prohibit aggressive dog training on all Town-owned property. The ordinance is part of an ongoing effort to enhance public safety and welfare, following a recent incident that highlighted gaps in the current regulations.
The ordinance defines aggressive dog training as "training for any form of protection including personal or area protection by the apprehension or warding off an individual or other animal by means of barking, threatening gestures, biting, or restraining by use of teeth." The new law prohibits this type of training on all Town property, including parks, streets, sidewalks, and even Addison Airport property.
This change was first discussed at a City Council work session on September 24, 2024, where staff presented the need to address potential risks posed by such training in public spaces. The ordinance provides an exemption for certified peace officers who may need to conduct this type of training as part of their official duties. Otherwise, any person who engages in aggressive dog training on Town property will be in violation of the law and could face penalties.