Chennai Bans Pet Licences for Pit Bulls and Rottweilers

Chennai: The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has stopped issuing new pet licences and renewing existing licences for Pit Bull and Rottweiler dogs within city limits, citing public safety concerns. The decision was taken by the GCC council and came into effect from December 19, 2025. 

According to civic officials, the move follows a rise in serious dog attack complaints involving these breeds, including a fatal Pit Bull attack reported in the Jafferkhanpet area earlier this year. Officials said the decision was aimed at preventing further incidents in residential neighbourhoods and public spaces.

Under the new rule, residents are no longer allowed to apply for fresh licences for Pit Bulls and Rottweilers. Existing licence holders will also not be able to renew their permits once they expire. Keeping these breeds without a valid licence can attract a fine of up to INR 1 Lakh, as per the corporation’s enforcement plan.

GCC officials have stated that strict inspections will be taking place to ensure compliance. Dog owners are also required to keep pets leashed in public areas, and if found unleashed, penalties may be imposed under existing civic rules.  

However, the decision has left many current pet owners uncertain. Several owners pointed out that the corporation had previously allowed registration of these breeds through its official portal and now there is no clear guidance on what existing owners must do once the licences expire. 

Animal welfare groups have also raised concerns that stopping licence renewals without a transition plan could lead to abandonment of pets. Activists have urged the corporation to allow existing dogs to remain with their families for the rest of their lifespan, while continuing restrictions on new purchases.

The licence ban is part of a broader push by the Chennai Corporation to tighten pet ownership rules. Despite mandatory licensing norms, civic estimates suggest that only a small fraction of pet dogs in the city are currently registered.

As of now, the GCC has not released detailed guidelines addressing relocation, rehoming, or exemptions for existing Pit Bull and Rottweiler owners. Pet parents are advised to closely follow official announcements and ensure their pets remain properly restrained in public areas.