Last updated on November 1, 2025
No, owning a pit bull terrier in Bermuda is prohibited unless the dog was lawfully acquired before the breed was banned and meets strict licensing conditions.
A Ban Rooted in Safety
In Bermuda, the question of dog ownership isn’t just about preference—it’s about public safety, community harmony, and legal boundaries. And when it comes to pit bull terriers, the law draws a firm line. These dogs, known for their strength and tenacity, are listed under Schedule 2 of the Dogs Act 2008 as a prohibited breed. That means you can’t legally import, breed, or acquire a pit bull terrier in Bermuda today.
But the story doesn’t end there. Like many laws, this one has a past—and a few exceptions.
The Rise and Restriction of Pit Bulls
Pit bulls weren’t always banned in Bermuda. In fact, before the Dogs Act 2008 came into force, they were relatively common. However, concerns over aggressive behavior, attacks, and the challenges of responsible ownership led to a shift in policy. The government decided to act decisively, placing pit bulls on the prohibited list alongside other breeds deemed dangerous or unsuitable for Bermuda’s densely populated environment.
The Dogs Act 2008 outlines the framework for dog ownership, licensing, and breed restrictions. Under Schedule 2, pit bulls are subject to a full prohibition. This means no new pit bulls can be brought into the country, bred locally, or transferred to new owners unless they were lawfully owned before the ban and meet very specific criteria.
Exceptions and Legacy Ownership
If you already owned a pit bull before the breed was banned, you might still be allowed to keep it—but only under strict conditions. The dog must be licensed, microchipped, and registered with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Owners must also demonstrate that their dog poses no threat to public safety and complies with all welfare and control regulations.
The Director of the Department has discretionary power to issue or revoke licenses based on the suitability of the owner and the premises where the dog is kept. This includes evaluating past offenses, complaints, and the dog’s behavior. If a licensed pit bull is found to be a danger, its license can be revoked, and the dog may be seized.
Enforcement and Penalties
The law is enforced by animal wardens, veterinary officers, and police. Violating the Dogs Act—whether by illegally owning a prohibited breed or failing to meet licensing requirements—can result in fines, seizure of the dog, and even criminal charges. The Act also empowers the courts to issue orders regarding dangerous dogs, including destruction orders in extreme cases.
Why the Ban?
The pit bull ban isn’t just about breed—it’s about risk management. Bermuda’s small size and close-knit neighborhoods mean that any incident involving a dangerous dog can have outsized consequences. The government’s approach reflects a balance between animal welfare and public safety, aiming to prevent harm while allowing responsible ownership of approved breeds.
Looking for more Bermuda animal rules? Check out Is it allowed to keep beehives in Bermuda without registering them? and Is It Allowed to Catch or Sell Parrotfish in Bermuda?
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Sources
Dogs Act 2008 – Bermuda Laws Online
https://www.bermudalaws.bm/Laws/Consolidated%20Law/2008/Dogs%20Act%202008
Publication date: 5 October 2018
Dogs Amendment Act 2018 Commencement Day Notice
https://www.bermudalaws.bm/Laws/Annual%20Law/Statutory%20Instruments/2018/Dogs%20Amendment%20Act%202018%20Commencement%20Day%20Notice%202018
Publication date: 3 October 2018