Union City Proposes Strict New Ordinance for Dangerous Dogs

The Union City City Council has introduced a new animal control ordinance designed to strengthen oversight of dogs that have shown aggressive or threatening behavior. Under the proposed rules, municipal officials would have clear authority to deny or revoke dog licenses if an animal is classified as vicious or potentially dangerous after an unprovoked incident.

City staff explained that the measure comes after instances where dogs identified as hazardous in nearby communities were rehomed into Union City neighborhoods. While no recent serious attacks have occurred locally, officials said the ordinance closes regulatory loopholes and provides enforcement tools if a canine escapes yards or threatens people on public walkways.

Under the draft ordinance, owners wishing to keep an aggressive dog must register the animal on a dedicated registry, maintain liability insurance, use a secure enclosure with set fence heights, and ensure the dog wears a muzzle when outside the property. The City Council is scheduled to hold a final discussion and vote on the policy on October 13.