Help shape Hertfordshire’s future – have your say on changes to local government

Residents, community groups, businesses and wider stakeholders are invited to share their views on how services will be delivered in Hertfordshire in the years ahead. This is a once in a generation opportunity to help shape the future of local government.

Have your say

XL Bullys

It is now a criminal offence to own or possess an XL Bully dog in England and Wales unless you have a valid Certification of Exemption.

It is an offence to:

  • sell an XL Bully dog
  • abandon an XL Bully dog or let it stray
  • give away an XL Bully dog
  • breed or breed from an XL Bully dog
  • have an XL Bully dog in public without a lead and muzzle

You can now no longer apply for a Certification of Exemption unless authorised by a court order. Local Authorities cannot supply Certificates of Exemptions or assist with Court Orders.

Certification of Exemptions

As of 1 February 2024 you must have a valid Certification of Exemption for your XL Bully dog.

If you missed the deadline to apply for a Certificate of Exemption, you must contact your local police force for advice as it is now illegal to own this type of dog without a valid Certificate of Exemption.

Local Authorities cannot assist you with court orders or supply you with a Certificate of Exemption.

If you require further guidance you can contact DEFRA via email: dogsindex@defra.gov.uk