Fairhope, Alabama May 12, 2003
It shall be an unlawful act if any person violates any provision of this ordinance and it shall constitute a Class 4 misdemeanor. Chaining or tethering dogs is prohibited. Attaching dogs to a running line or trolley is permitted, provided that the line is at least 10 feet long. Enclosures must provide a minimum of 150 square feet for dogs over 6 months of age.
Ordinance No. 1169 AN ORDINANCE TO PROHIBIT THE CHAINING OR TETHERING OF DOGS AND MANDATING THAT DOG ENCLOSURES MUST PROVIDE 150 SQUARE FEET OF SPACE FOR DOGS OVER SIX MONTHS OF AGE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FAIRHOPE, ALABAMA, AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. Any person owning and/or controlling dogs whether vaccinated or unvaccinated, licensed or unlicensed, shall not allow said animal to be tied or chained to dog houses, or other stationary objects. Section 2. No person shall, at any time, fasten, chain, or tie any dog or cause such dog to be fastened, chained or tied while such dog is on the dog owner’s property or on the property of the dog owner’s landlord, or on any property within the corporate limits of the City of Fairhope. Section 3. Any dogs confined within a fenced yard must have an adequate space for exercise based on a dimension of at least 150 square feet per dog. Provided, further that where dogs are kept or housed on property without a fenced yard, the owner of such dogs or persons have custody of such dogs shall provide an enclosure for such dogs meeting the 150 square foot per dog dimension. Such enclosure shall be constructed of chain link or similar type materials with all four sides enclosed. The enclosure shall be sufficient height to prevent the dog from escaping from such enclosure, and shall meet the requirements of the Alabama animal rights protection act 13A-11-241. Section 4. Nothing in this ordinance shall be construed to prohibit owners or others walking dogs with a hand held leash. Section 5. Nothing in this ordinance shall be construed to prohibit owners from allowing dogs to be attached to over head runs (i.e. leash or chain attached to an over head wire at least 10 feet long, that allows the dog to move unheeded.)
Tucson, Arizona October 9, 2012
Animals may not be tethered.
Sec. 4-3. Cruelty and neglect. Sec. 4-3(2). Neglect. The purpose of this subsection is to guarantee that animals under human custody or control are housed in healthy environments and are provided with proper food, water, shelter, medical care, exercise space and ventilation. Any person owning or having care, control or custody of any animal shall provide: … (e) That the animal is given adequate exercise space as follows: … (2) Tieouts are prohibited.
Fayetteville, Arkansas October 16, 2007
This ordinance prohibits dogs from being chained to a fixed point. Under this ordinance, dogs are allowed to be confined by a trolley system, provided the owner is on the premises.
Chapter 92.02 (F)
No dog shall be chained or staked to a fixed point. Dogs shall be kept in an enclosure or by trolley system, so placed that the animal may not intrude on other property, whether public or private, and provide adequate room for normal postural adjustments, exercise, and access to water, food, and shelter. The area where any animal is confined must provide proper and adequate drainage. The owner or harborer of the animal shall be on the premises when the animal is confined to the trolley system.
Jonesboro, Arkansas March 17, 2009
This ordinance prohibits dogs who weigh more than 20 pounds from being tethered to stationary objects. Adult dogs weighing less than 20 pounds may be tethered for no more than two hours at a time. Sec. 6.08.05. Dogs to be Confined C. Tethering Unless otherwise permitted under subsection d and e, it shall be unlawful for any person to tether, fasten, chain, tie, restrain or cause a dog to be fastened, chained, tied or restrained to houses, trees, fences, garages or other stationary or highly immobile objects by means of rope, chain, strap, or any other physical [restraint] for the purpose of confinement, except an adult dog age 1 year or over and less than 20 pounds may be so tied for a time period not to exceed 2 hours.
Little Rock, Arkansas October 7, 2003
Tethering dogs to any stationary object or point is prohibited. Section 6-16: Direct point chaining, or tethering of dogs to a stationary object, is prohibited.
Maumelle, Arkansas June 6, 2005
This ordinance prohibits the chaining/tethering of unattended dogs.
Sec. 10-90. Confinement of animals. (a) Any person owning animals, whether vaccinated or unvaccinated, licensed or unlicensed, shall confine such animal within an adequate fence or enclosure, or within a house, garage or other building. Animals shall not be tied or chained to doghouses or other stationary objects but must be in an approved enclosure. (b) Any "electric" or "underground invisible" enclosure or fence must be clearly marked and identified as the same by appropriate signage. The signage must sufficiently warn persons lawfully entering upon a property as to the presence of the enclosure and the possible presence of an animal therein. Size or placement of the signage must be such that persons are provided reasonable notice prior to coming into the area of the electric or underground invisible fence. (Ord. No. 314, § 1(3-6), 4-6-1998; Ord. No. 560, § 1, 6-6-2005)
Sec. 10-92. Dog pens. Outdoor dog pens shall be located 50 feet from any dwelling other than the person's owning or controlling the dog. There shall be at least 150 square feet in such pen for each dog over six months of age kept in the pen. (Ord. No. 314, § 1(3-7), 4-6-1998)
Sec. 10-93. Sanitary conditions of pens, premises and others property. It shall be unlawful for any person to allow an animal within the person's control to defecate on public or on the private property of another person unless the person having control of the offending animal immediately removes and disposes of the animal's feces in an appropriate manner pursuant to state or local provision for the disposal of solid waste. It shall be unlawful for any person keeping or harboring animals to fail to keep the premises where such animals are kept free from offensive odors to the extent that such odors are disturbing to any person residing within reasonable proximity of the premises. It shall be unlawful to allow premises where animals are kept to become unclean and a threat to the public health by failing diligently and systematically to remove all animal waste from the premises. It shall be unlawful to allow animals on premises where animals are kept to become infested with ticks, fleas, or other vermin by failing to diligently and systematically apply accepted methods of insect and parasite control. (Ord. No. 314, § 1(3-8), 4-6-1998; Ord. No. 521, § 2, 9-7-2004)
North Little Rock, Arkansas September 25, 2006
Dogs may not be tied to a stationary object as a means of confinement. They may be tethered to a trolley system under certain conditions.
Sec. 10-41. - Dog confinement. (b) Tethering. Unless otherwise permitted under subsections (c) and (d), it shall be unlawful for any person to tether a dog to any inanimate object as a means of confinement. (c) Trolley systems. A trolley system is a method to confine a dog by tethering the dog to a cable that is no less than ten feet in length and elevated four to seven feet off the ground in a manner that allows the tether to move freely along the length of the cable. Unless otherwise permitted under subsection (d), it shall be unlawful for any person to confine a dog through the use of a trolley system: (1) Between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.; (2) That is located within 75 feet from any dwelling other than the person owning or controlling the dog or is located in a place that allows the dog to trespass on a neighbor's property; (3) To which more than one dog is attached; or (4) In a manner that poses harm to the dog including, without limitation: a. The use of a collar or harness that is ill-fitting or constructed of any material other than leather or nylon; b. The use of a tether that exceeds 25 percent of the body weight of the dog; or c. The use of a trolley system in an area that contains hazards to the dog or deprives the dog of food, water, or shelter. (d) Permit. The Director of the North Little Rock Animal Shelter is hereby authorized to issue permits to allow the confinement of a dog in a manner that would otherwise be prohibited by this section. (1) Criteria. No permit shall be issued unless the director determines that: (i) unusual circumstances warrant confinement of the dog in this manner; (ii) the welfare of the dog will not be harmed by the confinement; and (iii) the neighborhood will not be adversely impacted by the confinement. (2) Inspection. All permits issued under this subsection shall require consent to both scheduled and unscheduled inspections of the animal and confinement area. (3) Revocation. The director shall revoke a permit issued under this subsection if: (i) the holder of the permit is convicted of any offense under local, state, or federal law involving animal cruelty; or (ii) an inspection indicates that the criteria authorizing the permit are no longer met. (e) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit walking dogs with a hand-held leash. (Code 1980, § 7-25; Ord. No. 7860, § 1, 9-25-06)
San Jose, CA
7.20.080 Dog confinement requirement. A. No dog may be tethered, fastened, chained, tied, or restrained to a shelter, tree, fence, or any other stationary object, except in accordance with Penal Code Section 597t, as may be amended. B. If a dog is confined in compliance with Subsection A., the dog owner/guardian and person with a right to control the dog may: 1. Attach a dog to a running line, pulley, or trolley system except no dog may be tethered to a running line, pulley, or trolley system by means of a choke collar or pinch collar; 2. Tether, fasten, chain, tie, or otherwise restrain a dog pursuant to the requirements of a camping or recreational area; 3. Tether, fasten, chain, or tie a dog no longer than is necessary for the person to complete a temporary task that requires the dog to be restrained for a reasonable period; 4. Tether, fasten, chain, or tie a dog while engaged in or actively training for, an activity that is conducted pursuant to a valid license issued by the State of California if the activity for which the license is issued is associated with the use or presence of a dog. Nothing in Section 7.20.080.B.4 prohibits a person from restraining a dog while participating in activities or using accommodations that are reasonably associated with the licensed activity; 5. Tether, fasten, chain, or tie a dog while actively engaged in conduct that is directly related to the business of shepherding or herding cattle or livestock, or directly related to the business of cultivating agricultural products, if the restraint is reasonably necessary for the safety of the dog. (Ord. 28079.) http://sanjose.amlegal.com/nxt/gateway.dll/California/sanjose_ca/title7animalcareandcontrol*/chapter720animalcareandkeep?f=templates$fn=default.htm$3.0$vid=amlegal:sanjose_ca$anc=JD_7.20.080
Collier County, Florida September 2008
This ordinance prohibits the chaining of a dog with the exception of instances in which the dog is temporarily tethered under the supervision of the responsible party.
Sec. 14-34. - Inhumane treatment of animals.
(b) Any enclosure used as a primary means of confinement for a dog must meet the definition of proper enclosure as stated in Section 14-35 of this Article. It shall be unlawful for a responsible party to tether a dog while outdoors, except when all of the following conditions are met. This section shall not apply to the transportation of dogs:
Hallandale, Florida June 17, 2009
Animals may not be tethered for more than 15 minutes unless the guardian is present.
Sec. 6-1.1. - Dogs shall be restrained. Each owner shall keep and maintain his dog under restraint; provided, however, that this section shall not apply to any dog being used for rescue or law enforcement work or any dog used in connection with a pari-mutuel facility licensed under F.S. ch. 550. It shall be unlawful for any owner to allow his dog to cross outside of the property line of its owner to any extent, including reaching over or under a fence, or to keep or allow his dog to be outdoors on an unfenced portion of the owner's property, unless the dog is restrained by a substantial chain or leash not exceeding six feet in length and under the control of its owner or another responsible person. No provisions of this section shall be construed to permit the tying, chaining, or otherwise tethering of any animal outdoors as a means of confinement for a time period exceeding 15 minutes unless the owner or keeper is present. Any dog owner who violates any provision of this section shall be sanctioned as provided by law. In addition to any fine imposed by this section, the dog's owner may be required to submit full restitution to the victim for any damage caused by the dog or may be incarcerated for a period not to exceed six months, or may be required to perform up to 100 hours of community service, or any combination thereof.
Hillsborough County, Florida January 19, 2012
Section 15. – Confinement to Property; Tethering
Pet owners, harborers, and keepers must use reasonable judgment and take reasonable steps to ensure the health and wellness of their pets in order to comply with this ordinance. This includes the following:
A) It is unlawful and a violation of this ordinance for any person to tether a dog, except when:
B) Exceptions: provided that a dog is tethered in a manner and under conditions that do not jeopardize its health, safety, or well being, Section (A) above, shall not apply to a dog that is:
C) A dog that is sick or injured cannot be tethered as a means of confinement by the owner, harborer or keeper. D) A puppy under the age of six (6) months old may only be tethered, if attended to at all times by the owner, harborer or keeper, during the entire time the puppy is tethered. E) In no case shall a dog be tethered outside if the owner, has been issued a “Letter of Dangerous Propensity” for that dog by the Department, or if the dog has been declared dangerous in accordance with Florida States Chapter 767, or if the person responsible for the dog has knowledge of the dog’s prior aggressiveness, unless the tethered dog is in a fenced enclosure that will prevent the public or domestic animals from coming into contact with the tethered dog. F) A grace period of at least 180 days shall be granted before enforcement of this Ordinance shall commence. During this time, the focus will be on responsible pet owner education. Enforcement through the issuance of citations shall commence on August 15, 2012.
Lake County, FloridaApril 10, 2012
Sec. 4-41. - Prohibition of tethering dogs.
Miami, Florida May 8, 2008
This ordinance prohibits the chaining/tethering of unattended dogs. When tethered, the responsible party must be outside with the dog. The tether must be five times the length of the dog, be connected to a buckle collar or harness, be on a swivel, and weigh no more than one eighth the dog’s weight. Pulley/trolley systems must be at least 15 feet in length. Sec. 6-41. Cruelty to dogs; penalties. (a) It shall be unlawful for any person keeping, harboring or owning a dog to be cruel and inhumane to the animal. "Cruelty" and "inhumanness" shall include all provisions as set forth in F.S. Ch. 828, and all amendments thereto, including unnecessarily beating or torturing or mutilating or cruelly killing or failing or neglecting to provide suitable food or drink in sufficient quantities, together with adequate shelter for such dog. (b) Tethering means to restrain a dog by tying the dog to any object or structure, including, but not limited to a house, tree, fence, post, garage, or shed, by any means, including, but not limited to a chain, rope, cord, leash or running line. This shall not include using a leash for walking purposes. (c) It shall be unlawful for a responsible party to tether a dog while outdoors, except when all of the following conditions are met: 1. The dog is visible to the responsible party at all times and the responsible party is outside with the dog; 2. The tether is connected to the dog with a buckle-type collar or a body harness made of nylon or leather, not less than one (1) inch in width; 3. The tether has the following properties: a. it must be at least five (5) times the length of the dog's body, as measured from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail;and b. it terminates at both ends with a swivel; and c. it does not weigh more than one eighth (1/8) of the dog's weight; and d. it is free of tangles. 4. The dog is tethered so as to prevent injury, strangulation, or entanglement. 5. The dog is not outside during extreme weather, including, but not limited to, extreme heat or near-freezing temperatures, thunderstorms, tornadoes, tropical storms, or hurricanes. 6. The dog has access to water, shelter and dry ground. 7. The dog is a least six (6) months of age. 8. The dog is not sick or injured. 9. Pulley, running line or trolley systems are at least fifteen (15) feet in length and are less than seven (7) feet above ground. 10. If there are multiple dogs, each dog is tethered separately.
Miami-Dade County, Florida October 7, 2008 (effective April 7, 2008)
Tethering is banned unless the responsible party is located outside with the dog and certain other conditions are met. Sec. 5-21. Tethering of dogs. (a) As used in this section, tether means to restrain a dog by tying the dog to any object or structure, including without limitation a house, tree, fence, post, garage, or shed, by any means, including without limitation a chain, rope, cord, leash, or running line. Tethering shall not include using a leash to walk a dog. (b) It shall be unlawful for a responsible party to tether a dog while outdoors, except when all of the following conditions are met: (1) The dog is in visual range of the responsible party, and the responsible party is located outside with the dog. (2) The tether is connected to the dog by a buckle-type collar or a body harness made of nylon or leather, not less than one inch in width. (3) The tether has the following properties: it is at least five times the length of the dog's body, as measured from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail; it terminates at both ends with a swivel; it does not weigh more than 1/8 of the dog's weight; and it is free of tangles. (4) The dog is tethered in such a manner as to prevent injury, strangulation, or entanglement. (5) The dog is not outside during a period of extreme weather, including without limitation extreme heat or near-freezing temperatures, thunderstorms, tornadoes, tropical storms, or hurricanes. (6) The dog has access to water, shelter, and dry ground. (7) The dog is at least six months of age. Puppies shall not be tethered. (8) The dog is not sick or injured. (9) Pulley, running line, or trolley systems are at least 15 feet in length and are less than 7 feet above the ground. (10) If there are multiple dogs, each dog is tethered separately. (c) Nothing in this section shall be construed to excuse a violation of § 5-20 of this chapter. (d) This section shall not apply to the transportation of dogs, and in the event of a conflict with § 5-15 of this chapter, § 5-15 shall govern. (e) For a first-time violation, the Department shall issue a warning notice to the responsible party and shall wait at least thirty (30) days before taking any further enforcement action against the responsible party. Thereafter, each violation of this section shall be subject to enforcement in accordance with § 5-2 of this chapter. For all civil penalties for violations of this section collected pursuant to Chapter 8CC, 75% of the amount collected shall be paid to the Animal Services Trust Fund, created by Miami-Dade County Resolution No. R-1385-06, as may be amended from time to time.
Mount Dora, Florida October 2, 2012
Animals may not be tethered unless the guardian is physically present and the animal is within visual range of him or her.
Sec. 18.180 Prohibition of Tethering of Dogs a. It is a violation of this section for any owner to tether a dog or to confine a dog to a tether, except when: 1. The dog is in visual range of the owner who must also be physically present with the dog and attending to it while it is tethered; and i. The tether is connected to the dog by a commercially available buckle-type collar or a body harness made of nylon or leather that is of sufficient size to adequately and safely restrain the dog; and ii. The tether is of a size and weight that is reasonably necessary to safely restrain the dog without placing excessive strain or weight on the dog; and iii. The dog is not tethered outside in periods of extreme weather, including but not limited to extreme heat or cold, thunderstorms, lightning, tornadoes, tropical storms, or hurricanes. 2. A dog is tethered in a manner and under conditions that do not jeopardize its health, safety, or well-being and the dog is: i. In attendance at, or participating in, any legal, organized publicly attended event in which both dog and owner are permitted attendees or participants; or ii. Actively engaged in conduct that is directly related to the business of shepherding or herding cattle or livestock or related to the business of cultivating agricultural products, as long as the restraint is reasonably necessary for the safety of the dog; or iii. Tethered, chained, tied, or restrained by a veterinarian or groomer while attending to the dog; or iv. Trained or being trained to act in a law enforcement capacity; or v. Being lawfully used to actively hunt a species of wildlife in this state, during the hunting season for that species of wildlife; or vi. Tethered temporarily while being kept in a bona fide humane shelter or at a commercial boarding facility; or vii. Tethered in accordance with the regulations of a camping or recreational area; or viii. Being cared for as part of a rescue operation during a natural or man-made disaster; or ix. Being transported in vehicle. 3. Notwithstanding the exceptions provided above, a dog that is sick or injured cannot be tethered as a means of confinement by the owner nor may a puppy under the age of six (6) months be tethered at any time unless the owner is present and attending to the puppy during the entire time the puppy is tethered. b. A violation of this section shall be a class II violation for the first offense and a class III violation for any repeat offense within five (5) years of a previous offense. If injury or damage to the dog occurs such that care by a veterinarian is required, then such violation shall be a class III offense for the first offense and a class IV offense for any repeat violation within five (5) years of a previous offense. If the code enforcement board finds the violation to be irreparable or irreversible in nature due to the severe injury or death of a dog due to a violation of this section, then the code enforcement board may impose a fine not to exceed $5,000.00 per violation.
Okaloosa County, Florida November 11, 1992
Tethering dogs and cats is prohibited Sec. 5-28. Restraint and confinement to property. (d) Dogs or cats shall not be chained, tied, fastened or otherwise tethered to dog houses, trees, fences or other stationary objects as a means of confinement to property.
Palm Beach County, Florida
Sec. 4-24. - Animal care; manner of keeping.
(d) No person shall tether an animal to a stationary or inanimate object as a means of confinement or restraint unless such person is with the animal and the animal is at all times visible to such person. Choke or prong type collars shall not be used on an animal while such animal is tethered. As used in this chapter, tether means to restrain an animal by tying the animal to any object or structure, including without limitation a house, tree, fence, post, garage, or shed, by any means, including without limitation a chain, rope, cord, leash, or running line. Tethering shall not include using a leash or lead to walk an animal. Notwithstanding the foregoing, an animal may be tethered while actively participating in or attending an organized show, field trial, agility event, herding contest or other similar exposition or event, of a limited duration, that involves the judging or evaluation of animals.
Pinellas County, Florida May 4, 2010
Sec. 14-31. - Unlawful restraint of dogs. (a) No person shall tether, fasten, chain, tie, or restrain a dog, or cause an a dog to be tethered, fastened, chained, tied, or restrained, to a dog house, tree, fence, or any other stationary object. (b) Notwithstanding subsection (a), a person may do any of the following: (1) Attach a dog to a running line, pulley, or trolley system. A dog shall not be tethered to the running line, pulley, or trolley system by means of a choke-type, pinch-type, prong-type, or improperly fitting collar; (2) Tether, fasten, chain, tie, or otherwise restrain a dog pursuant to the requirements of a camping or recreational area; or (3) Tether, fasten, chain, or tie a dog no longer than is necessary for the person to complete a temporary task that requires the dog to be restrained for a reasonable period. (c) In all cases where tethering is permissible the following conditions must be met: (1) The tether has the following properties: it is at least five times the length of the dog's body, as measured from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail; it terminates at both ends with a swivel; it does not weigh more than one-eighth of the dog's weight; and it is free of tangles; (2) The dog is tethered in such a manner as to prevent injury, strangulation, or entanglement; (3) The dog is not outside during a period of extreme weather, including without limitation extreme heat or near-freezing temperatures, thunderstorms, tornadoes, tropical storms, or hurricanes; (4) The dog has access to water, adequate shelter, and dry ground; (5) The dog is at least six months of age. Puppies shall not be tethered; and (6) The dog is not sick or injured. (Ord. No. 10-25, § 2, 5-4-10) http://library.municode.com/HTML/10274/level4/PTIIPICOCO_CH14AN_ARTIIANSE_DIV1GE.html#PTIIPICOCO_CH14AN_ARTIIANSE_DIV1GE_S14-31UNREDO
Sarasota County, Florida September 15, 2010
Sec. 14-44. - Cruelty to Animals prohibited.
(f) Under no circumstances shall a person improperly Tether any Animal. It shall be unlawful for an Owner to tether an Animal outdoors, except for when all of the following conditions are met: (1) The Animal is in visual range of the Owner, and the Owner is located outside with the Animal. (2) The tether is connected to the Animal by a buckle-type collar or a body harness made of nylon or leather, not less than one inch in width. (3) The tether has the following properties: a. It is at least five times the length of the Animal's body, as measured from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail; b. It terminates at both ends with a swivel; c. It does not weigh more than one-eighth of the Animal's weight; and d. Is free of tangles. (4) The Animal is tethered in such a manner as to prevent injury, strangulation, or entanglement. (5) The Animal is not outside during a period of extreme weather, including without limitation extreme heat or near-freezing temperatures, thunderstorms, tornadoes, tropical storms, or hurricanes. (6) The Animal has access to water, shelter, and dry ground. (7) The Animal is at least six months of age. Puppies, kittens, and other young Animals shall not be tethered. (8) The Animal is not sick or injured. (9) Pulley, running line, or trolley systems are at least 15 feet in length and are less than seven feet above the ground. (10) If there are multiple Animals, each Animal is tethered separately.
Seminole, Florida December 2009
This ordinance bans leaving any dog outside on a chain.
Section 20.16. Cruelty to Animals
It shall be unlawful for any animal owner or person to cruelly deprive food, water, shelter and protection to any animal under his control and/or custody, or to abandon, poison, cruelly beat, cruelly whip or kill any animal under his, another's or no one's control and/or custody, or to mutilate, overdrive, overload, overwork, torment, torture or otherwise cruelly ill-use any animal.
Adequate shelter shall be provided to allow the confined or tethered animal to remain dry and protected from the elements at all times, and shall provide either natural or artificial shade that gives relief from direct sunlight, when sunlight is likely to cause overheating, serious injury, or death of the animal. If the shelter is an enclosure, the enclosure shall allow for adequate ventilation so as to prevent stress or discomfort to the animal. Potable water shall be available at all times, either free flowing, or in a clean receptacle.
Athens-Clarke County, Georgia November 7, 2007
This ordinance prohibits the chaining/tethering of dogs to stationary objects.
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CODE OF ATHENS-CLARKE COUNTY, GEORGIA WITH RESPECT TO ANIMAL CONTROL - KEEPING DOMESTIC ANIMAL UNDER CONTROL –CONTROL AND REMOVAL OF ANIMAL WASTES; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
The Commission of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia hereby ordains as follows: SECTION 1. Section 4-1-2, entitled “Keeping Domestic Animal under Control,” of the Code of Athens-Clarke County is hereby amended by deleting said section in its entirety and substituting the following in lieu thereof: “Sec. 4-1-2. Keeping domestic animal under control. (a) It shall be unlawful for any owner of a domestic animal not to control the animal at all times through one of the following means: (1) On a leash when off the property of the owner; (2) Within the passenger area of a vehicle driven or parked on the streets; (3) Within the property limits of its owner and attended by its owner; or (4) Confined within the property limits of its owner or of another with the permission of the person in control of the property. Confined means in a building, pen or fenced area or other structure built to prevent intrusion or escape by any dog. (b) It shall be unlawful for any owner of a domestic animal to chain, tie, fasten or otherwise tether the animal to dog houses, trees, fences, vehicles or other stationary objects as a means of confinement except that the animal may be temporarily confined by a tether while attended by its owner.” SECTION 2. Chapter 4-1, entitled “Animal Control,” of the Code of Athens-Clarke County is hereby amended by adding a new Section 4-1-3 thereto as follows: “Sec. 4-1-3. Specific requirements for confinement. It shall be an offense for any owner of a domestic animal not to satisfy the following requirements: (a) Any tether used to temporarily confine an animal while attended by its owner must be attached to a collar or harness and shall not be wrapped directly around the animal’s neck. Such tethers shall not be excessively heavy or weighted so as to inhibit the animal’s movement. (b) All domestic animals shall be provided with sanitary shelter from the elements. Said shelter shall be designed, constructed and maintained to protect the animal from rain, snow, ice, excessive cold, excessive heat and excessive direct sunlight, and of a size to allow the animal sufficient space to stand, turn around, and lie down, and make all other normal body movements in a normal and comfortable position appropriate to the age, size, and health of the animal. Examples of inadequate shelter include, but are not limited to, lean-tos, metal or plastic drums, boxes, vehicles, or the area on or beneath exposed porches or decks. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to prevent the transportation and temporary confinement of a domestic animal within the passenger area of a vehicle provided that the animal is provided adequate ventilation and temperature control in order to protect the animal from excessive heat or cold. (c) All domestic animals shall be provided with clean, potable water at all times. (d) An owner must promptly remove and dispose of animal excrement and food wastes and debris so as to minimize vermin infestation, contamination, odors, and disease hazards. (e) All domestic animals shall be provided with a safe and sanitary confinement area constructed to confine the animal, to protect the animal from injury, and of a sufficient space to allow for adequate exercise suitable to the age, size, species, and breed of animal. The area shall have a means to rapidly eliminate excess water and minimize mud.” SECTION 3. Section 4-1-4, entitled “Prohibitions for Domestic Animals,” paragraph (d) is hereby amended by deleting said paragraph (d) in its entirety and reserving said paragraph. SECTION 4. Section 4-1-6, entitled “Removal of Animal Wastes,” of the Code of Athens-Clarke County is hereby amended by deleting said section in its entirety and substituting the following in lieu thereof: “Sec. 4-1-6. Control and removal of animal wastes. (a) It shall be unlawful for the owner of any animal to refuse or fail to immediately remove any feces deposited by such animal upon public sidewalks, public streets, public parks or other public property in Athens-Clarke County, or upon any private property within Athens-Clarke County not under the exclusive use and control of said owner or keeper. (b) It shall be unlawful for the owner of any animal to permit such animal to defecate or urinate upon any private property except that upon which he or she resides or owns unless he or she has the permission of the owner of such other private property.”
SECTION 5. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.
Bibb County, Georgia August 2, 2010
Animals may not be tethered while unattended by their guardians.
Sec. 4-26. - Tethering and transport of dogs and cats; prohibited conduct. (a) It shall be unlawful for any owner or other person controlling or possessing any dog or cat to: (1) Leave a dog or cat tethered outdoors while unattended by its owner; (2) Tether a dog or cat except by means of a properly fitting harness or collar of nylon or leather construction and a tether in proportion to the size of the animal. The tether must be at least 15 feet in length with a swivel at both ends; (3) Tether a dog or cat outdoors under conditions where the animal or tether can become entangled on the tether, another animal, or some other object or where the tether can restrict the animal's access to suitable, edible, and sufficient food, clean water (cool in summer and unfrozen in winter), and appropriate shelter; (4) Tether a dog or cat outdoors in unsafe or unsanitary conditions or when said tether does not allow the animal to defecate or urinate in an area separate from the areas where it must eat, drink or lie down;
Blakely, Georgia March 2008
Animals may not be permanently tethered.
ARTICLE III. CONFINEMENT, VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS, AND PROHIBITED CONDITIONS Section 4.34 Prohibited Conditions. c. No person shall permanently harness or tether an animal.
Chatham County, Georgia August 12, 2005
This ordinance prohibits the tethering of dogs and cats to any object, stationary or otherwise, in unincorporated areas of the county. § 22-139 Tethering. It shall be prohibited in unincorporated Chatham County to retain or confine to property of dogs or cats in a manner achieved by stationary or non-stationary dog houses, barrels or other stationary object as such means of confinement within the property.
DeKalb County, Georgia July 12, 2005
This ordinance prohibits the tethering of dogs to stationary objects. Dogs may be restrained by a running cable or trolley system for a limited amount of time, provided that the system meets certain conditions. Sec. 5-1. Definitions. Tethered means an animal attached to a stationary object by a chain, cable or similar device commonly used for the size and type of animal involved. An animal is not considered tethered when the animal is attached to a stationary object, as long as the owner or custodian is physically within reach of the animal. Any tethering device used to tether an animal must be at least 10 feet in length. Sec. 5-3. Keeping animal under restraint while on owner's property. (d) Tethering of an animal is prohibited. (e) As a secondary means of restraint to a proper enclosure, an animal may be attached to a running cable line or trolley system providing that: (1) A running cable line or trolley system is set inside a proper enclosure; (2) Only one animal may be attached to each running cable line or trolley system; (3) No animal may be attached to a running cable line or trolley system for more than twelve (12) hours in a twenty-four hour period; (4) No animal may be attached to a running cable line or trolley system between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.; (5) Tethers and cables attaching the animal to the running cable line or trolley system must be made of a substance which cannot be chewed by the animal and shall not weigh more than five percent (5%) of the body weight of the animal tethered; (6) A running cable line or trolley system must have a swivel installed at each end and be attached to a stationary object that cannot be moved by the animal; (7) The running cable line or trolley system must be at least ten (10) feet in length and mounted at least four (4) feet and no more than seven (7) feet above ground level; (8) The length of the tether from the running cable line or trolley system to the animal's collar should allow access to the maximum available exercise area and allow the animal free access to food, water, and shelter; (9) Be attached to a properly fitted harness or collar not used for the display of a current rabies tag and other identification; and with enough room between the collar and the dog's throat through which two (2) fingers may fit. Choke collars and pinch collars are prohibited for the purpose of tethering an animal to a running cable line or trolley system; and (10) Be tethered at sufficient distance from any other objects to prohibit the tangling of the cable, from extending over an object or an edge that could result in injury of strangulation of the animal and be of sufficient distance from any fence so as to prohibit the animal access to the fence.
Gwinnett County, Georgia August 18, 2009
Animals may not be tethered outdoors unattended for more than one hour in any 24-hour period or between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
ARTICLE II. - ANIMAL CONTROL GENERALLY Sec. 10-29. - Restraint. It shall be unlawful to tether an animal outdoors, except when all of the following conditions are met: (1) The owner or adult custodian of the animal must be outside with the animal and the animal must be visible to the owner, except that an animal may be tethered outdoors unattended not more than one hour in any 24-hour period. No animal may be tethered unattended between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.; (2) Only one animal may be attached to each tethering system; (3) Any tethering device used to tether an animal must be at least ten feet in length and shall not allow the animal to come within five feet of the edge of the property line of the property upon which such animal is tethered; (4) Tethers must be made of a substance which cannot be chewed by the animal and shall not weigh more than five percent of the body weight of the animal; (5) The tether must have a swivel installed at each end and be attached to a stationary object that cannot be moved by the animal; (6) The tether must be at least ten feet in length and mounted no more than seven feet above the ground level; (7) The length of the tether from the running cable line or trolley system to the animal's collar should allow access to the maximum available exercise area and allow the animal free access to food, water, and shelter; (8) The animal must be attached to the tether by a properly fitted harness or collar with enough room between the collar and the animal's throat through which two fingers may fit. Choke collars and pinch collars are prohibited for the purpose of tethering an animal; (9) The tethering system must be a sufficient distance from any other objects or animals to prohibit the tangling of the cable, to prohibit the cable from extending over an object or an edge that could result in injury or strangulation of the animal and be of sufficient distance from any fence so as to prohibit the animal from having access to the fence; (10) The animal is not outside during extreme weather, including, but not limited to extreme heat or near freezing temperatures, or thunderstorms; (11) The animal is at least six months of age; and (12) The animal is not sick or injured.
"Houston County, Georgia September 7, 2010
Sec. 10-1. - Definitions. Restraint means any animal which is on a hand-held leash or at heel or beside a competent person and obedient to that person's commands, or within a vehicle being driven or parked on the streets and roads of the city, or in a fenced area within the real property limits of the owner (if zoned R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, RMH or PUD), or within the property limits of an R-Ag zone. Invisible fence systems are allowed if they are maintained in good working order and keep the animal contained. It shall be unlawful to restrain an animal by tethering or any similar use of a chain, cable, rope or other stakeout or tie-out device.
Macon, Georgia February 20, 2008
Sec. 5-20. - Tethering and transport, prohibited conduct. (a) It shall be unlawful for any owner or other person controlling or possessing any dog or cat to: (1) Leave a dog or cat tethered outdoors while unattended by its owner. (2) Tether a dog or cat except by means of a properly fitting harness or collar of nylon or leather construction and a tether in proportion to the size of the animal. The tether must be at least fifteen (15) feet in length with a swivel at both ends. (3) Tether a dog or cat outdoors under conditions where the animal or tether can become entangled on the tether, another animal, or some other object or where the tether can restrict the animal's access to suitable, edible, and sufficient food, clean water (cool in summer and unfrozen in winter), and appropriate shelter. (4) Tether a dog or cat outdoors in unsafe or unsanitary conditions or when said tether does not allow the animal to defecate or urinate in an area separate from the areas where it must eat, drink or lie down. (5) Expose a dog or cat to any weather conditions that cause immediate imminent threat to the animal's physical well-being. (6) Transport any dog or cat in the bed of a pick truck unless the dog or cat is secured inside of a commercially designed container intended for the safe transport of dog and cats or otherwise secured so as not to allow the dog or cat the ability to escape from the vehicle. (b) A person who is convicted, pleads guilty or nolo contendere to a violation of this section shall suffer the following minimum punishment: (1) First offense, minimum fine: thirty-five dollars ($35.00). (2) Second offense within a one-year period, minimum fine: fifty dollars ($50.00). (3) Third offense within a one-year period, minimum fine: seventy-five dollars ($75.00). (4) Fourth or subsequent offense within a one-year period, minimum fine: one hundred dollars ($100.00). (Ord. No. O-08-0009, § 1, 2-20-08) http://library.municode.com/HTML/10168/level3/PTIIICOOR_CH5AN_ARTIINGE.html#PTIIICOOR_CH5AN_ARTIINGE_S5-20TETRPRCO
Terrell County, Georgia January 17, 2012
No person shall permanently harness or tether an animal.
Frankfort, Kentucky Dec. 16, 2010
(5) Minimum standards for restraint of dogs.
(a) It shall be a violation of this section for the owner or person in possession of any dog to tie, chain, or otherwise tether a dog; provided, however, that a dog may be temporarily tethered, tied or chained if attended by its owner or any person over the age of 14 years. A person walking a dog on a leash shall not be considered to be tethering a dog.
(b) The prohibition of this section does not apply to a temporary restraint during a lawful animal event, veterinary treatment, grooming, or law enforcement activity.
(c) A person restraining a dog with a chain or tether shall attach the chain or tether to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog. A person may not wrap a chain or tether directly around a dog's neck. All collars used for the purpose of tethering animals must be made of durable and non-metallic material. Using a chain, choke or pinch collar while tethering is prohibited. A person may not restrain a dog with a chain or tether that weighs more than 1/18 of the dog's body weight. A chain or tether used to restrain a dog must, by design and placement, be unlikely to become entangled.
(d) Where an officer authorized to enforce this section pursuant to • 90.32 observes a dog being kept on a chain or tether in violation of this section, the officer may notify the owner of the violation in person or by means of a notice placed at the entry to the property. If the owner does not comply with this section within seven days of issuance of this notice, the dog may be impounded and the owner shall be fined as set forth in • 90.99 (C).
(e) A person is considered to be attending a dog while tethered if the dog is under the person's direct and immediate control and supervision.
(♣70 Code, • 8.04.120) (Ord. 9-92, 1992, passed 10-12-92; Am. Ord. 19, 2010, 12-16-10)
Denham Springs, Louisiana April 19, 2009
Animals may not be tethered as a sole means of confinement.
Sec. 18-56. - Dogs on cables or tethers; improper confinement. (1) Dogs and cats shall not be chained, tied, fastened or otherwise tethered as sole means for confinement to property. The continuous maintenance of a dog on a chain, rope or other kind of tether is abnormally restrictive and stressful and often results in health and temperament problems. In most cases, such long term confinement will cause the dog to suffer unnecessarily. (2) An individual found chaining or tethering an animal in violation of this section has 30 days to provide other means of confinement, as long as other conditions of confinement and care are being met. The grace period is null and void immediately if the owner, at any time during the grace period, is not in compliance with other applicable laws relating to animals. (3) As an alternative means of restraint, an animal may be attached to a running cable line or trolley system providing that: (a) Only one animal may be attached to each running cable line or trolley system; (b) No animal should be attached to a running cable line or trolley system for more than 12 hours in a 24-hour period; (c) Tethers and cables attaching the animal to the running cable line or trolley system must be made of a substance which cannot be chewed by the animal and shall not weigh more than 1/18 of the body weight of the animal tethered; (d) The running cable line or trolley system must be at least 50 feet in length and mounted at least four feet and no more than seven feet about ground level; (e) The length of the tether from the running cable line or trolley system to the animal's collar should allow access to the maximum available exercise area and allow the animal free access to required food, water, and shelter. The tether attaching the animal to the trolley system must allow the animal complete freedom to lie down or enter shelter without strain to the neck or body. (f) Be attached to a properly fitted harness or collar not used for the display of a current rabies tag and other identification; and with enough room between the collar and the dog's throat through which two fingers may fit. Choke collars and pinch collars are prohibited for the purpose of tethering an animal to a running cable line or trolley system; and (g) Be tethered at sufficient distance from any other objects to prohibit the tangling of the cable, from extending over or around an object to an edge that could result in injury of [sic] strangulation of the animal and be of sufficient distance from any fence so as to prohibit the animal access to the fence. (Code 1987, § 4:109(1), (3)—(8) ; Ord. No. 09-13, art. I, 4-14-09)
Carthage, Missouri December 8, 1992
Tethering dogs is prohibited. Sec 4-7 (a) All dogs must be confined within a fenced area, unless on a leash not longer than six feet long. At no time may any dog be tied to or leashed to inanimate objects i.e. trees, posts, etc. (b) Persons found guilty of violating this section will be liable to fines ranging from: $25.00 - $200.00. However, if said dog has been spayed or neutered the fines may be reduced, upon provided proof.
Columbia, Missouri July 5, 2011
Animals may not be tethered as a primary means of confinement.
Section 5-6 Animal abuse; unlawful impoundment; unlawful confinement. (a) Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for any person to: (6) Tether an animal as the primary method of restraining an animal to any property; (7) Tether an animal using a choke collar; (8) Tether an animal without using a properly fitted collar or harness made of nylon or leather; or (9) Tether an animal without using a tether of appropriate length and weight for free animal movement that includes swivels at both ends.
Raytown, Missouri July 17, 2007
Sec. 4-15. - Animals to be adequately restrained; tethering. (a) It shall be unlawful for an owner, keeper or harborer of an animal or fowl to keep said animal without it being adequately restrained. (b) [Reserved.] (c) It shall be unlawful for an owner, keeper or harborer of an animal or fowl to allow such animal to run at large. (d) It shall be unlawful for an owner, keeper or harborer of animal to tether the animal outside except when the owner, keeper or harborer of the animal is visibly supervising the animal, whether outside or from inside a residence. http://library.municode.com/HTML/10976/level3/COOR_CH4ANCO_ARTIINGE.html#COOR_CH4ANCO_ARTIINGE_S4-15ANBEADRETE
Bernalillo County, New Mexico November 2012
Animals may not be tethered to a stationary object as a form of confinement.
Sec. 6-43. - Restraint of Animals. a. A person owning or having charge, custody, care, or control over a companion animal, including livestock, shall keep the animal upon his or her own premises within a secure enclosed pen, or in an area containing a fence or wall of sufficient height surrounding the perimeter of the property. It shall be unlawful to tether a companion animal as a form of confinement. 1. Fixed point tethering of any companion animal to stationary objects is permitted in limited circumstances such as picnics or gatherings in a park or open space, for emergency purposes to permit an individual to render aid to a human or another animal and only when the owner is immediately present..
Asheville, North Carolina September 22, 2009
This ordinance prohibits animals from being unattended and restrained by tether in any manner that prevents them from having access to food, water or shelter.
Section 3-12(i) of the Code of Ordinances City of Asheville is hereby repealed in its entirety and the following substituted in lieu thereof: (i) It shall be unlawful for an owner to leave a dog unattended and restrained by tether while outdoors or restrain an animal in any manner whereby the animal is prevented from having access to food, water or shelter. In addition, any animal under a prior order from the City shall remain in full effect and shall not be repealed by this ordinance.
Cary, North Carolina April 19, 2012
Animals may not be left unattended while tethered.
Sec. 6-67. Animal abuse prohibited. (a) Prohibited acts. All animals shall be kept and treated under sanitary and humane conditions and it shall be unlawful for any person to engage in one or more of the following acts: […] (12) Chaining or tethering (collectively, "tethering") an animal to a stationary object without a responsible person remaining outside with the animal while it is tethered. When tethering is allowed, the following are also prohibited: a. Using a length or weight of a chain or tether that is not appropriate for the size, weight and age of the animal. A chain or tether should not be less than ten feet long. Using a chain or tether that exceeds ten percent of the animal's body weight shall be deemed not appropriate and potentially harmful. b. Allowing an animal to be chained or tethered such that the animal is not confined to the owner's property or such that the chain or tether can become entangled and prevent the animal from moving about freely or lying down comfortably.
Chapel Hill, North Carolina March 23, 2009 Effective March 23, 2010
Tethering of dogs is prohibited except under special circumstances. If special circumstances apply, tethering cannot exceed seven consecutive days.
Sec. 4-5 Cruelty to Animals
(d) It shall be unlawful to tether a dog except under the following circumstances:
(1) Tethering for a period not to exceed seven consecutive days while actively engaged in: (i) Shepherding or herding livestock. (ii) Lawful dog activities such as hunting training, law enforcement training, veterinary treatment and/or the pursuit of working or competing in these legal endeavors. (iii) Meeting the requirements of a camping or recreational area.
Clayton, North Carolina August 4, 2008 (effective October 4, 2008)
Tethering is banned. No animal shall be tied, chained, fastened, or otherwise tethered to any stationary or inanimate object. Section 91.26 (D) Space requirements. Enclosures shall be constructed and maintained so as to provide sufficient space to allow each animal to make normal postural and social adjustments with adequate freedom of movement to maintain physical conditioning. The animal should be able to sit, stand, turn, and lie without obstruction. Adequate space for food and water containers must be provided. Inadequate space may be indicated by evidence of malnutrition, poor condition, debility, stress, or abnormal behavioral patterns. Animals shall not be tied, chained, fastened, or otherwise tethered to any stationary or inanimate object as a means of confinement or restraint to property, but must be in an approved enclosure.
Cumberland County, North Carolina February 2, 2009
This ordinance prohibits the chaining of dogs outdoors except under certain circumstances, such as if tethering is necessary for the dog's safety and a guardian remains with the dog while he or she is tethered. (H)
Davidson, North Carolina
April 2012
This ordinance prohibits the chaining of a dog with the exception of instances in which the dog is temporarily tethered under supervision of the responsible party.
Sec. 10-71. - Restraint of animals.
(b) Tethering. Dogs may not be tethered to a stationary object UNLESS a responsible adult (as described in 10-71 (a)) is in the immediate presence of the dog and the following conditions are met:
(a)The line of the pulley system, running line or trolley system to which the tether is attached shall be made of coated steel cable.
(b) No tether shall be affixed to a stationary object which would allow a dog to come within 5 feet of any property line.
Durham County, North Carolina September 8, 2008 (effective January 1, 2010)
Tethering is prohibited except when on an attended leash.
Sec. 4-13. Definitions Tethering means tying out or fastening outdoors on a rope, chain or similar restraint for holding an animal. This shall not preclude restraining an animal within a secure enclosure inside the home or on an attended leash.
Sec. 4-62. General care; prohibited acts. All animals shall be kept and treated under sanitary and humane conditions and it shall be unlawful for any person to engage in one or more of the following acts:
(6) Tethering of an animal except under the following circumstances:
Tethering for a period not to exceed 7 days while actively engaged in:
A. shepherding or herding livestock B. lawful dog activities such as hunting training and hunting sporting events, field and obedience training, field or water training, law enforcement training, veterinary treatment, and/or the pursuit of working or competing in these legal endeavors C. meeting the requirements of a camping or recreational area
When participating in recognized exempt activities, tethered dogs shall be attended by a responsible person and shall be tethered in a manner that does not cause unjustifiable pain, suffering or risk of death.
New Hanover, North Carolina 1978
Chaining or tethering dogs is prohibited. A chain or rope is not to be used in place of a leash when walking dogs. Sec. 3.4 (d) Restraint: An animal is under restraint within the meaning of this chapter if it is controlled by means of a leash, or is sufficiently near the owner or handler to be under his direct control and is obedient to that person’s command; or is on or within a vehicle being driven or parked; or is within a secure enclosure. Exceptions to restraint are as follows: Organized and lawful animal functions e.g. hunting, obedience training, field and water training, law enforcement training and/or in the pursuit of working or competing in those legal endeavors. When a dog is on the property of its owner of guardian it shall be secured when not supervised by a competent person. Ropes, chains, and the like shall not constitute adequate security under this ordinance.
Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina June 13, 2006
This ordinance prohibits the tethering of dogs.
Section 91.22. Prohibition Against Tethering of Dogs.
A. It shall be unlawful to tether an unattended dog outside of the house.
Lawton, Oklahoma
This ordinance specifies that a dog may not be chained in his or her own yard. A. No person shall, at any time, fasten, chain, or tie any dog or cause such dog to be fastened, chained or tied while such dog is on the dog owner’s property or on the property of the dog owner’s landlord. B. Any dogs confined within a fenced yard must have an adequate space for exercise based on a dimension of at least one hundred square feet. Provided, further that where dogs are kept or housed on property without a fenced yard, the owner of such dogs or persons having custody of such dogs shall provide an enclosure for such dogs meeting the one hundred square feet dimension. Such enclosure shall be constructed of chain link or similar type materials with all four sides enclosed. The enclosure shall be of sufficient height to prevent the dog from escaping from such enclosure. The top of such enclosure shall be covered with materials to provide the dog with shade and protection from the elements. (Ord. 90-18, 6/26/01)
Beaufort, South Carolina
Sec. 6-4022. - Restraint.
(h) Tethering. No animal, including dogs, cats or other domestic pets shall be tethered as a primary means of stationary confinement. Stationary confinement by tethering is deemed and considered to be cruel treatment.
(i) It is unlawful to attach a chain or wire or other tethering device to, or cause such attachment to, a choke-type or pronged collar on a dog.
(j) It is unlawful to attach a chain or wire or other tethering device to a dog in such manner that does not allow the dog access to water and shelter.
(k) A person who knowingly or intentionally violates subsection (h), (i) or (j) is guilty of a misdemeanor and must be punished in the manner prescribed in section 6-4029
(l) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (h), (i) and (j), a person may, subject to the provisions of subsections (i) and (j) of this section:
(1) Tether and restrain a dog while actively engaged in:
a. Use of the dog in shepherding or herding livestock;
b. Use of the dog in the business of cultivating agricultural products, if the restraining is reasonably necessary for the safety of the dog; or
c. Use of the dog in lawful hunting activities if the restraint is reasonably necessary for the safety of the dog.
(2) After taking possession of a dog that appears to be a stray dog and after having advised animal control authorities of the capture of the dog, tether and restrain the dog during such time as the person having taken possession of the dog is seeking the identity of the owner of the dog;
(3) Walk a dog with a handheld leash.
(Ord. No. O-29-89, 10-10-89; Ord. No. O-02-08, 1-8-08)
York County, South Carolina October 15, 2012
An animal may not be tethered to a stationary object unless a responsible adult is physically outdoors with him or her.
Sec. 55.19 Restraint Requirements 1. The owner or keeper of every animal shall keep the animal under restraint at all times. If a responsible adult is physically outdoors with their animal on the property where the owner of the animal resides and the animal is under the owner's direct control and is obedient to the owner's commands, this section shall not apply during the duration of the time the animal is under the control of that person. 2. When a tether is utilized as a primary means of restraint, a responsible adult must be physically outdoors with their animal, and the animal must be under the owner's direct control. The tether must be at least ten feet in length, have swivels on both ends, and allow the animal to utilize the entire 360 degree circular area designated by the tether. The tether must allow the animal free access to food, water, and shelter. 3. Any tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog and shall weigh no more than 10% of the dogs estimated body weight. 4. Tethering does not refer to periods when a dog is walked on a leash or restrained on a trolley system (Sec. 55.01.22). The primary usable trolley runner line must be suspended at least three feet above the animals head, with at least ten feet in length between two pulley stop points. The secondary line attached to animal shall have a rolling trolley freely movable a distance of at least ten feet on the primary trolley line with a spring/shock absorber attachment and swivels at both ends. The trolley system shall allow the animal unrestricted body movement and utilization of the entire area designated by the trolley system, with a minimum of five feet lateral movement for the animal on each side of the primary trolley line, as measured on the ground. The trolly system must allow the animal free access to food, water, and shelter. The trolley system must be of appropriate configuration to prevent escape of the animal, and confine the animal to the owner's property. The primary trolley line shall be used to restrain only one animal at a time. 5. All collars used must be made of nylon, leather, or other durable and non-metallic material and must be fitted so as to not cause injury to the animal or embed itself in the animal's neck. 6. Use of a chain, choke, or pinch collar as a primary collar is prohibited. 7. Any animal that is restrained must be a sufficient distance from any other objects or debris so as to prohibit any tangling of the restraint or from extension over an object or an edge that could result in injury or strangulation of the animal.
Arlington, Texas May 1, 2012
Section 9.08 Tethering
A. A person commits an offense if he uses a chain, rope, tether, leash, cable, or other device to attach a dog to a stationary object or trolley system. This section does not prohibit a person from walking a dog with a hand-held leash. B. It is a defense to prosecution under this section that: 1. the dog is being tethered during a lawful animal event, veterinary treatment, grooming, training, or law enforcement activity; or 2. the dog tethering is required to protect the safety or welfare of a person or the dog, and the dog's owner maintains direct physical control of the dog; or 3. the dog tethering is due to force majeure and the dog is tethered for less than one hour within a twenty-four period; or 4. the dog tethering: a. occurs while the dog is within the owner's direct physical control; and b. prevents the dog from advancing to the edge of any public right-of way. C. The defenses under this section are only available if the following specifications are met: 1. The chain, rope, tether, leash, cable, or other device is attached to a properly fitted collar or harness worn by the dog; 2. The chain, rope, tether, leash, cable, or other device is not placed directly around the dog's neck; 3. The chain, rope, tether, leash, cable, or other device does not exceed 1/20th of the dog's body weight; 4. The chain, rope, tether, leash, cable, or other device, by design and placement allows the dog a reasonable and unobstructed range of motion without entanglement; and 5. The dog has access to adequate shelter and clean and wholesome water. (Amend Ord 12-032, 5/1/12)
Austin–Travis County, Texas Approved by the Austin City Council: June 7, 2007 Ordinance Effective Date: October 1, 2007
ORDINANCE NO. ____________________
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 3 OF THE CITY CODE RELATING TO THE RESTRAINT OF AND ENCLOSURES FOR DOGS. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AUSTIN:
PART 3. Section 3-4-2 (Restraint Requirements for Dogs on Private Property) of the City Code is amended to read:
§ 3-4-2 RESTRAINT REQUIREMENTS FOR DOGS ON PRIVATE PROPERTY.
(A) Except as provided in Subsection (B), a person may not restrain a dog with a chain or tether unless the person is holding the chain or tether. (B) The prohibition of Subsection (A) does not apply to a temporary restraint: (1) during a lawful animal event, veterinary treatment, grooming, training, or law enforcement activity; or (2) that is required to protect the safety or welfare of a person or the dog, if the dog's owner or handler remains with the dog throughout the period of restraint. (C) A person restraining a dog with a chain or tether shall attach the chain or tether to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog. A person may not wrap a chain or tether directly around a dog’s neck. A person may not restrain a dog with a chain or tether that weighs more than 1/18 of the dog’s body weight. A chain or tether used to restrain a dog must, by design and placement, be unlikely to become entangled. (D) A person may not restrain a dog in a manner that does not allow the dog to have access to necessary shelter and water. (E) A person may not restrain a dog in a manner that allows the dog to move outside the person’s property. (F) A person may not keep six or more dogs, other than puppies less than six months old, unless the dogs are kept in an enclosure that meets the requirements prescribed by Section 3-2-13 (Enclosure for Dogs).
Big Spring, Texas July 13, 2004
This ordinance prohibits dogs from being chained or tethered to any inanimate object. Dogs may only be kept on a tether held in the guardian’s hand, such as a leash. Section 3-40 (b): It shall be unlawful for the owner, caregiver, or keeper of any dog to restrain or anchor a dog by means of a tether, chain, cable, rope, or cord, unless the tether or other restraint is being personally held by the owner, caregiver, or keeper of the dog. No dog may be attached to any inanimate object.
Dallas, Texas July 1, 2008
Tethering is not allowed unless the dog is in the immediate possession of the owner. Sec. 7-3.1. Proper Restraint. (a) An owner of an animal commits an offense if he fails to restrain the animal at all times in a fenced yard, in an enclosed pen or structure, or by a tether or leash. (b) No animal may be restrained by a tether or leash unless the animal is in the immediate possession of and accompanied by the animal's owner (c) It is a defense to prosecution under Subsection (a) that the animal was: 1) a dog in an off-leash site established under Section 32-6.1 of this code; or (2) a feral cat participating in a trap, neuter, and return program approved by the director. (d) It is a defense to prosecution under Subsection (b) that the animal was a dog and was tethered: (1) in a manner complying with Section 7-4.7 of this chapter, and (2) for a reasonable period of time, not to exceed three hours in a 24-hour period, and no longer than necessary for the owner to complete a temporary task that required the dog to be restrained. Sec. 7-4.7. Tethered Dogs. (a) An owner of a dog commits an offense if he tethers the dog or allows the dog to be tethered in any manner or by any method that: (1) allows the dog to leave the premises owned, leased, or occupied by the dog's owner; (2) allows the dog to become entangled; (3) does not allow the dog access to food, water, and appropriate shelter if outside; or (4) does not meet the requirements for tethering a dog under Subsection (b) of this section. (b) The following requirements apply to a dog tethered within the city: (1) The dog must be properly fitted with and wearing a harness or collar made of leather or nylon. (2) The tether must be attached to the dog's harness or collar and not directly to the dog's neck. (3) The tether must be at least 10 feet long.
Electra, Texas June 11, 1996
Tethering is prohibited, but dogs may be controlled by the hand-held use of a rope, leash, or chain. Ordinance 96-9, Section 111, Restraint: A. 2. Dogs To Be Restrained—dogs shall not be allowed to run at large. All dogs must be restrained by some physical means; however, a dog shall not be considered at large when held or controlled by some person by means of a rope, leash, or chain. Dogs may not be tethered and the tethering of any dog shall be a violation of this chapter.
Fort Worth, Texas January 22, 2008
This ordinance prohibits the chaining/tethering of unattended dogs. An offense under this Section is a Class C misdemeanor and subject to a fine of up to $2,000.
Section 6-13 (d). It shall be unlawful for a person to use a chain, rope, tether, leash, cable, or other device to attach a dog to a stationary object or trolley system.
Georgetown, Texas June 24, 2008 (effective December 24, 2008)
Tethering is banned. The ordinance allows for the use of leashes and temporary restraints, as long as the dog's guardian remains with the dog. Sec. 7.07.010. Dog tethering or chaining. A. Except as provided in Subsection B., a person may not restrain a dog with a chain or tether unless the person is holding the chain or tether. B. The prohibition of Subsection A. does not apply to a temporary restraint: 1. During a lawful animal event, such as walking on a leash, veterinary treatment, grooming, training, or law enforcement activity; or 2. That is required to protect the safety or welfare of a person or the dog, if the dog's owner or handler remains with the dog throughout the period of restraint. C. A person restraining a dog with a chain or tether shall attach the chain or tether to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog. A person may not wrap a chain or tether directly around a dog's neck. A person may not restrain a dog with a chain or tether that weighs more than 1/18 of the dog's body weight. A chain or tether used to restrain a dog must, by design and placement, be unlikely to become entangled. (Ord. No. 2008-37, § 2)
Irving, Texas November 1, 2007
Dogs cannot be tethered and left alone for any period of time. Sec. 6-2.1. Restraint requirements for dogs. (a) General prohibition of tethering. It is unlawful for a person to restrain a dog with a chain or tether unless the person is holding the chain or tether. (b) Affirmative defenses. It is an affirmative defense to a violation of subsection (a) that the restraint: (1) Is required to protect the safety or welfare of a person or the dog, if the dog's owner remains with the dog throughout the period of restraint; or (2) Occurs on the owner's premises and: a. While the dog is within the owner's direct physical control; and b. While the dog is prevented from being within fifteen (15) feet from the edge of any public street or sidewalk. (c) Exceptions. The prohibition of subsection (a) does not apply to temporary restraint: (1) During a lawful animal event, veterinary treatment, grooming, training, or law enforcement; or (2) While in the presence of the owner in a designated city dog park. (d) Restraint specifications. The affirmative defenses provided in subsection (b) and exceptions in subsection (c) do not apply unless the restraint meets the following specifications: (1) The chain, leash, cord, or tether is not placed directly around the dog's neck and is attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog; (2) The chain, leash, cord, or tether does not exceed more than 1/10th of the dog's body weight; (3) The chain, leash, cord, or tether, by design and placement, is unlikely to become entangled; and (4) The dog is restrained in a manner that permits access to necessary shelter and water.
Live Oak, Texas March 13, 2007
Animals may not be tethered to a stationary object as a means of confinement.
Sec. 4-10. - Animal restraint is required. (b) Any animal permitted to be kept within the city shall not be chained, tied, fastened or otherwise tethered to any stationary or inanimate object as a means of confinement and restraint to property. First-time violators of this provision may be given one to two days' grace without penalty to correct a violation of this provision. Exception from penalty shall not be given in any case where the violation of this provision causes or contributes to the bodily injury of a person or animal. An animal chained, not having food, not having water, [or] not having shelter shall be considered separate offenses under this provision and each violation shall carry a separate penalty.
Mineola, Texas January 28, 2008
Animals may not be tethered unless someone is holding the tether.
Sec. 6-12. - Restraint requirements for dogs. (a) General prohibition on tethering. It is unlawful for a person to restrain a dog with a chain or tether unless the person is holding the chain or tether. (b) Affirmative defenses. It is an affirmative defense to a violation of subsection (a) that the restraint: (1) Is required to protect the safety or welfare of a person or the dog, if the dog's owner, or person who otherwise has control over the dog, remains with the dog throughout the period of restraint; or (2) Occurs on the owner's premises: a. While the dog is within the owner's, or person who otherwise has control over the dog, direct physical control; and b. While the dog is prevented from being within 15 feet from the edge of any public street or sidewalk. (c) Exceptions. The prohibition of subsection (a) does not apply to a temporary restraint during; a lawful animal event, veterinary treatment, grooming, training or law enforcement activity. (d) Restraint specifications. The affirmative defenses provided in subsection (b) and exceptions in subsection (c) do not apply unless the restraint meets the following specifications: (1) The chain, leash, cord or tether is not placed directly around the dog's neck and is attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog; (2) The chain, leash, cord or tether, by design and placement, is unlikely to become entangled; and (3) The dog is restrained in a manner that permits access to necessary shelter and water. (e) Hand-held leashes. This section does not prohibit a person from walking a dog with a hand-held leash. (f) Dogs running at large strictly prohibited. Nothing in this section authorizes an owner to allow a dog to run at large or to fail to provide appropriate restraint or enclosure as required by section 6-6 of this chapter.
Nassau Bay, Texas December 2009
This ordinance bans the chaining of dogs. However, temporary chaining is permitted as long as the "owner" is present with said dog. When the owner is absent, the dog cannot be left chained to a stationary object such as a doghouse. Dogs confined within a fenced yard must have an adequate space of at least 100 square feet per dog for exercise. The enclosure must be of sufficient height to prevent the dog from escaping, and the enclosure must be constructed of chain link or similar type materials, with all four sides enclosed.
Section 3-15. Tethering.
(a) Any person owning and/or controlling dogs, whether vaccinated or unvaccinated, licensed or unlicensed, shall not allow said animal to be tied or chained to a fixed object.
(b) No person shall at any time fasten, chain, or tie any dog or cause such dog to be fastened, chained, or tied while such dog is on the owner's property, or on the property of dog owner's landlord, or on any property within the territorial limits of the City of Nassau Bay.
(c) Any dog confined within a fenced yard must have a minimum exercise area of one hundred (100) square feet per dog. Provided further that where dogs are kept or housed on a single family residential property without a fenced yard, the owner or persons having custody of such dogs shall provide an enclosure for such dogs meeting the one hundred (100) square feet per dog dimensions. Such enclosure shall be constructed of chain link or similar type materials with all four (4) sides enclosed. The enclosure shall be of sufficient height to prevent the dog from escaping from such enclosure. The top of such enclosure shall be covered with materials to provide the dog with shade and protection from the elements.
(d) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit owners or others from walking dogs with a handheld leash or temporarily tethering their dog so long as the owner is immediately present and the animal is not left unattended for no more than five (5) minutes while tethered.
(e) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit owners from allowing dogs to be attached to overhead runs (i.e. leash or chain attached to an overhead wire at least ten (10) feet long that allows the dog to move unheeded).
Texas City, Texas March 7, 2007
ARTICLE II. - DOGS AND CAT
Sec. 18-46. - Prohibition against the chaining or tethering of dogs and mandating that dog enclosures must provide 150 square feet of space.
(a) Any person owning and/or controlling dogs whether vaccinated or unvaccinated licensed or unlicensed, shall not allow said animal to be tied or chained to dog houses, or other stationary objects.
(b) No person shall, at any time, fasten, chain, or tie any dog or cause such dog to be fastened, chained or tied while such dog is on the dog owner's property, or on the property of the dog owner's landlord, or on any property within the limits of the City of Texas City.
(c) Any dog confined within a fenced yard must have an adequate space for exercise based on a dimension of at least 150 square feet per dog. Provided, further that where dogs are kept or housed on property without a fenced yard, the owner of such dogs or persons have custody of such dogs shall provide an enclosure for such dogs meeting the 150 square foot per dog dimensions. Such enclosure shall be constructed of chain link or similar type materials with all four sides enclosed. The enclosure shall be sufficient height to prevent the dog from escaping from such enclosure. The top of such enclosure shall be covered with materials to provide the dog with shade and protection from the elements.
(d) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit owners or others walking dogs with a hand held leash.
(e) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit owners from allowing dogs to be attached to over head runs (i.e. leash or chain attached to an over head wire at least ten feet long, that allows the dog to move unheeded.)
If any person violates any provision of this section, it shall constitute a misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be subject to a fine in accordance with the general penalties set forth in chapter 1, section 1-7 of the Code of Ordinances.
(Ord. No. 07-13, § 1, 3-7-2007)
Hampton, Virginia July 11, 2012
Sec. 5-80.- Tethering prohibited
It shall be unlawful to tether any companion animal whether or not the animal has been provided adequate space. A violation of this section shall be punishable as a class 4 misdemeanor.
Huntington, West Virginia December 14, 2009
Dogs may not be tethered without direct supervision of the dog's guardian.
Sec. 508.02 Tethering, Prohibited Conduct It shall be unlawful for any owner or other person controlling or possessing any dog to tether a dog outdoors without direct supervision of the animal's guardian.
Kanawha County, West Virginia February 10, 2010
Section 1. Cruelty to Animals.
a) No person shall cruelly mistreat, abandon, or withhold proper sustenance, including food, water, shelter that protects from the elements, exercise, or medical treatment, necessary to sustain normal health and fitness or to end suffering or abandon any domesticated animal to die, or intentionally, knowingly or recklessly leave an animal unattended and confined in a motor vehicle when physical injury to or death of the animal is likely to result, or ride an animal when it is physically unfit, or injure any animal for the purpose of making it perform for a person’s amusement, or cruelly chain, tether or confine outside any animal or use, train or possess any domesticated animal for the purpose of seizing, detaining or maltreating any other domesticated animal. b) Exceptions. Nothing in subsection (a) of this section shall be deemed to prohibit 1) Any action by licensed veterinarian done in accordance with accepted standards of veterinary care; 2) Any action taken by a law enforcement officer pursuant to the interests of public health and safety; 3) Any act done in self-defense or done to defend another person or animal.
Section 2. Tethering of Dogs
a) Tethering: it shall be unlawful for any person to tether, fasten, chain, tie, restrain or cause a dog to be fastened, chained, tied, or restrained to houses, trees, fences, garages or other stationary or highly immobile objects by means of a rope, chain, strap or other physical restraint for the purpose of confinement, except in circumstances where all of the following requirements are met: 1) The tethering shall be no longer than necessary for the dog’s caretaker or owner to complete a temporary task that requires the dog to be physically restrained for a reasonable period of time; 2) The dog is visible to the responsible party at all times and the responsible party is outside with the dog; provided that for a period not exceeding fifteen consecutive minutes in any period, for a total of no more than four such periods in a twenty-four hour period, the dog may remain out of the sight of the responsible party, while that party conducts a temporary task; 3) The dog must be properly fitted with and wearing a non-choke harness or collar made of leather, nylon, or similar material. Choke, prong, martingale or greyhound collars shall not be used; 4) The tether must be attached to the dog’s harness or collar and not directly to the dog’s neck; 5) The tether must be at least 10 feet long, free from tangles and weigh no more than 1/8 of the dog’s weight; 6) The dog is tethered so as to prevent injury, strangulation, or entanglement; 7) The dog is not tethered outside during extreme weather, including, but not limited to, extreme heat or near-freezing temperatures, thunderstorms, tornadoes, or floods, unless adequate food, potable water, shade, shelter and protection is provided, as provided in section 3 below; 8) The dog must be at least 15 feet from the edge of any public road or sidewalk; 9) The dog is six (6) months of age or older; 10) The dog is not sick or injured. b) If using a pulley, running line or trolley system, all the conditions of subsection (a) of this section must be met, and: 1) The running line or trolley system must be at least fifteen (15) feet in length and at least four feet and no more than seven (7) feet above ground; 2) If there are multiple dogs, each dog is tethered separately; 3) The dog(s) must be tethered at sufficient distance from any other objects to prohibit the tangling of the cable, from extending over an object or an edge that could result in injury or strangulation of the animal and be of sufficient distance from any fence so as to prohibit the dog’s access to the fence. c) Exceptions. Nothing in subsection (a) or (b) will be deemed to apply to restraint: 1) Of hunting dogs. As used in this Paragraph, the term “hunting dog” means a dog actually used to lawfully hunt game in West Virginia or another State of the United States under a valid hunting license issued by the State where the hunting occurred during the then present year or the year previous, and with respect to a dog of less than eighteen (18) months of age, a dog that has had training toward hunting lawful game in West Virginia or another state of the United States. The owner of the dog relying on the dog’s status as a “hunting dog” under this paragraph may establish a prima facie case of such status by providing to a law enforcement officer with a sworn written statement setting forth the specific facts establishing that the dog is a “hunting dog” within the meaning of this paragraph. 2) Temporarily utilized during any lawful training activities, veterinary treatment, grooming, or law enforcement training; 3) Temporarily utilized when the animal is being held, walked, or exercised on a hand-held leash;