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Dog Bites and Animal Injuries

HRS 663-9 — the owner is liable whether or not the owner knew the animal was dangerous

The owner or harborer of an animal that causes injury to a person or damage to property is liable for it, regardless of whether the owner knew of any vicious or dangerous propensities.

  • HRS 663-9
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  • For an animal known by its species or nature to be dangerous, wild or vicious, the owner or harborer is absolutely liable.
  • Everyone in the State is responsible in damages for injury caused to others by their own animals, domestic or wild.
  • HRS 663-9
  • HRS 663-1
Sources for this section (2)
  1. HRS 663-9 — Liability of animal owners
  2. HRS 663-1 — Torts, who may sue and for what

Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Hawaii attorney.

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