Chaining Is Prohibited in the Following Communities

Athens, Alabama
November 5, 2018

Dogs may not be kept on a tether, and any enclosure must be at least 100 square feet for dogs weighing less than 30 pounds and at least 225 square feet for dogs weighing 30 pounds or more.

Sec. 10-42. – Confinement of dogs.
(b) A dog is effectively confined under this section if the dog is not running at large, the dog is confined in an enclosure, the confinement does not violate any provision of state or local law, and the confinement does not violate any of the following:
(1) The enclosure must provide a minimum of 225 square feet (with neither the width or length being less than ten feet) for each dog weighing 30 pounds or more, and 100 square feet (with neither the width or length being less than eight feet) for each dog weighing less than 30 pounds.
(2) The enclosure shall be sufficiently constructed as to keep such enclosed dog from contact with outside dogs and people, and shall have an area sufficient to allow such dog reasonable exercise. The enclosure shall also permit reasonable protection from the weather, including shade during the summer.
(3) The dog is not kept on a tether, rope, chain, or similar line.
(4) The dog is not kept in an area of dangerous or unsanitary conditions, including but not limited to, excessive animal waste, garbage, dirty water, dangerous objects that could injure or kill the dog upon contact, or other circumstances that could cause harm to the dog’s physical health.
(5) The dog is kept in a structurally sound, moisture-proof and wind-proof shelter large enough to keep the dog reasonably clean and dry. A shelter that does not protect the dog from extreme temperatures or precipitation, or which does not provide adequate ventilation or drainage, shall not comply with this subsection.
(6) A carport shall not be used as an effective confinement for dogs.
(7) An invisible fence may be used to satisfy all or part of the enclosure requirements of this section. As used herein, an “invisible fence” is a system, in good working order, that uses a wireless receiver in the dog’s collar along with an electric stimulus, to prevent the dog from leaving the defined area of enclosure.

Arab, Alabama
February 6, 2017

Dogs may not be tethered to a stationary object. Attaching dogs to a running line or trolley is permitted under certain conditions.

Sec. 3-15. – Basic standards for control of dogs and for care of dogs kept habitually outside.

(a) Duty to restrain and contain dogs.

(1) It shall be the duty of every owner or person in charge of a dog to keep the animal under effective restraint, while the dog is within the city, whether or not the dog is upon or away from his premises. It shall be unlawful for the owner or person in charge of any dog to fail to keep the animal under effective restraint. Proof that a dog is not properly restrained, whether on or off the premises of the owner or person in charge, shall be prima facie evidence of a violation. Competent evidence that the failure was occasioned by an unforeseeable and independent act of a third person shall shift the burden on the city to prove otherwise.

(2) The method used to contain a dog while on his premises is within the discretion of the owner provided the conditions do not present a hazard to the dog, a hazard to the general public and are otherwise in compliance with the provisions of this section. Ordinary containment methods include housing the dog inside of a residential structure, use of a fence or use of a pen or trolley line, provided that the provisions set forth herein are met.

(b) Chaining/tethering of dogs.

(1) Direct point chaining, or tethering of dogs to a stationary object, is prohibited. Dogs may be restrained by means of a trolley system, or a tether attached to a pulley on a cable run, if the following conditions are met:

a. Only one dog may be tethered to each cable run.

b. The tether must be attached to a properly fitting harness or collar worn by the dog. Choke collars, pinch collars and prong collars are prohibited for purposes of tethering a dog to a cable run.

c. There must be a swivel on at least one end of the tether to minimize tangling of the tether.

d. The tether and cable run must be of adequate size and strength to effectively restrain the dog. The size and weight of the tether must not be excessive, as determined by the Animal Control officer, considering the age, size and health of the dog.

e. The length of the tether from the cable run to the dog’s harness should allow access to a reasonable available exercise area and should allow continuous access to water and shelter. The trolley system must be of appropriate configuration to confine the dog to the owner’s property, to prevent the tether from extending over an object or an edge that could result in injury to the dog, and to prevent the tether from becoming tangled with other objects or animals.

(2) Notwithstanding the foregoing, a dog may be tethered while actively participating in or attending an organized show, field trial, agility event, herding contest or other similar exposition or event conducted outdoors, of a limited duration, that involves the judging or evaluation of animals, or when under the care and supervision of a licensed veterinarian.

(3) In all cases, any person who tethers a dog in accordance with this section shall ensure that the animal is tethered in a manner as to prevent injury, strangulation, entanglement or neglect.

(4) No person owning or keeping a dog may subject the dog to cruel conditions or inhumane tethering at any time. Cruel conditions and inhumane tethering are defined as, but not limited to, the following conditions:

a. Filthy and dirty confinement conditions, including but not limited to exposure to excessive animal waste, garbage, dirty water, noxious odors, dangerous objects that could injure or kill the dog upon contact, or other circumstances that could cause harm to the dog’s physical health.

b. Taunting, prodding, hitting, harassing, threatening or otherwise harming a tethered or confined dog.

c. Subjecting the dog to dangerous conditions, including but not limited attack by other animals.

(5) Any dog kept habitually outside which is not constrained in accordance with the provisions of this section must be kept inside a residential structure or in a fenced area or pen which is suitable for the size of the dog as determined by the animal control officer.

(Ord. No. 2017-1, §§ 1—4, 2-6-17)

Huntsville, Alabama
November 1, 2018

Dogs may not be tethered to a stationary object unattended.

Sec. 5-6. – Cruelty to animals prohibited.
(a) It shall be unlawful if a person in charge: . . .
(12)Restrains an unattended animal with a leash or tether, or fixed point chaining or tethering the animal, to a stationary object, including but not limited to a house, tree, fence, post, garage, or shed.

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.)

Florence, Alabama
October 20, 2015

No dog or cat may be tethered to a stationary object.

Sec. 4-78. – Tethering.
(a) No person shall, at any time, fasten, chain, or tie any dog and/or cat or cause such animal to be fastened, chained, or tied to a stationary object while such animal is within the city limits of Florence, Alabama.
(b) Enclosures for dogs must provide a minimum of one hundred (100) square feet for each dog weighing thirty (30) pounds or more and thirty-six (36) square feet for each dog weighing less than thirty (30) pounds. Neither the length nor the width of any enclosure one hundred (100) square feet or larger may be less than eight (8) feet. Neither the length nor the width of any enclosure smaller than one hundred (100) square feet may be less than six (6) feet.
(c) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit owners or others walking dogs with a hand held leash.

Glendale, Arizona
June 13, 2017

No animal shall be tethered for the purpose of confinement with the exception of temporary tethering of horses.

Sec. 6-26. – Animal cruelty and neglect.
[…]
(c)(5) With the exception of temporary tethering of horses, the use of tie-outs such as chains, leashes, wires, cables, ropes, or similar restraining devices for the purpose of animal confinement is hereby prohibited;

Pima County, Arizona
November 5, 2018

The use of a tie-out for the purpose of animal confinement is prohibited except for the temporary tethering of horses.

6.04.110 Cruelty and neglect of animals.
B. 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:
. . .
(5) That the animal is given adequate exercise space within an enclosure that shall be constructed of material, and in a manner, to minimize the risk of injury to the animal, and shall encompass sufficient usable space to keep the animal in good condition. With the exception of temporary tethering of horses, the use of tie-outs such as chains, leashes, wires, cables, ropes, or similar restraining devices for the purpose of animal confinement is hereby prohibited.

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.

Little Rock, Arkansas
October 7, 2003

Dogs may not be tethered to a stationary object. They may, however, be restrained by a trolley system if certain conditions are met.

Sec. 6-16. – Confinement.

(d) Chaining. Direct-point chaining or tethering of dogs to a stationary object is prohibited. Dogs may be restrained by means of a trolley system, or a tether attached to a pulley on a cable run, if the following conditions are met:

(1) Only one (1) dog may be tethered to each cable run.

(2) The tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog, 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 purposes of tethering a dog to a cable run.

(3) There must be a swivel on at least one (1) end of the tether to minimize tangling of the tether.

(4) The tether and cable run must be of adequate size and strength to effectively restrain the dog. The size and weight of the tether must not be excessive, as determined by the animal services officer, considering the age, size and health of the dog.

(5) The cable run 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.

(6) The length of the tether from the cable run to the dog’s collar should allow access to the maximum available exercise area and should allow continuous access to water and shelter. The trolley system must be of appropriate configuration to confine the dog to the owner’s property, to prevent the tether from extending over an object or an edge that could result in injury or strangulation of the dog, and to prevent the tether from becoming entangled with other objects or animals.

Maumelle, Arkansas
June 6, 2005

Animals may not be tethered.

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.

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)

Springdale, Arkansas
April 13, 2010

Dogs may not be tethered to stationary objects but may be restrained on a trolley or pulley system if certain requirements are met.

Sec. 14-36. Tethering animals prohibited.

Direct-point chaining or tethering of dogs to a stationary object is prohibited. Dogs may be restrained by means of a trolley system, or a tether attached to a pulley on a cable run, if the following conditions are met:

(1) Only one dog may be tethered to each cable run.

(2) The tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog, 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 purposes of tethering a dog to a cable run.

(3) There must be a swivel on at least one end of the tether to minimize tangling of the tether.

(5) The cable run must be at least ten feet in length and mounted at least four feet and no more than seven feet above ground level.

Stuttgart, Arkansas
This ordinance bans unattended tethering. Dogs are permitted to be tethered to a trolley only if their guardian is with them.

Section 1:

(k) “Tethering” shall mean the restraint used as a chain or rope and is regulated as follows. Direct point chaining or tethering of dogs to a stationary object is prohibited. Dogs may be restrained by means of a trolley system, or a tether attached to a pulley on a cable run, if the following conditions are met:

(1) Only one (1) dog may be tethered to each cable run.

(2) The tether must be attached to a properly fitting buckle type collar made of nylon or leather and not less than one inch wide or harness worn by the dog, 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 purposes of tethering a dog to a cable run.

(3) The tether has the following properties:

(A) 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.

(B) It terminates at both ends with a swivel.

(D) It is free of tangles

(4) The tether and cable run must be of adequate size and strength to effectively restrain the dog. The size of the tether must not be excessive, as determined by the animal services officer, considering the age, size, and health of the dog and the weight of the tether may not exceed 25% of the dog’s weight.

(5) The cable run 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.

(6) The length of the tether from the cable run to the dog’s collar should allow access to the maximum available exercise area and should allow continuous access to food, water, and shelter. The trolley system must be of an appropriate configuration to confine the dog to the owner’s property, to prevent the tether from extending over an object or an edge that could result in injury or strangulation of the dog, and to prevent the tether from becoming entangled with other objects or animals.

(7) The dog is not outside during a period of extreme weather, including without limitation extreme heat or near freezing temperatures, thunderstorms, or tornadoes.

(8) The dog has access to water, food, shelter, and dry ground.

(9) The dog is at least six (6) months of age. Puppies shall not be tethered.

(10) The dog is not sick or injured.

(11) A trolley may not be used during the hours of 6 P.M. to 6 A.M.

(12) The area where any animal is confined must provide proper and adequate drainage.

(13) The owner or responsible party for the animal shall be on the premises and in visual range then the animal is confined to the trolley system.

West Memphis, Arkansas
2006

This ordinance bans direct-point tethering.

9.04.020 – Animal care.

No owner shall fail to provide his animals with sufficient good and wholesome food and water; shelter which provides protection from the weather including four sides with opening, roof and floor; veterinary care when needed to prevent suffering; and with humane care and treatment.
No person shall cruelly treat any animal in violation of the laws of the state of Arkansas.
No owner of an animal shall abandon such animal.
Any person who, as the operator of a motor vehicle, strikes a domestic animal shall, within a reasonable time, report the accident to the appropriate law enforcement agency or to the local humane society.
No person shall expose any known poisonous substance or toxic chemical, whether mixed with food or not, so that the same shall be liable to be eaten by any animal; provided that it is not unlawful for a person to expose, on his property, common rat poison mixed only with vegetable substance.
Any person owning, possessing or keeping a dog shall keep the dog securely confined behind a fence or otherwise restrained upon the person’s property by adequate means to prevent the dog’s escape; or shall effectively control the dog, whether on or off the person’s property, by means of a leash or other proper method of supervised restraint from which the dog cannot escape.
Chaining. Direct-point chaining or tethering of dogs to any object is prohibited.

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.)

Alachua County, Florida
2017

It is prohibited to tether a dog or cat to a stationary object unless the animal is in visual range of the owner and the owner is outside with the animal. In such cases, certain requirements must be met.

Sec. 72.10. – Humane treatment for companion animals.
(c) Except as provided herein and in section 72.34(b) no person shall restrain a dog or cat by means of tethering, fastening, chaining, or tying to a dog house, tree, fence, or any other stationary object.
(d) Notwithstanding subsection (c), a person may tether a dog or cat when it is in visual range of the owner, and the owner is located outside with the tethered animal.
(e) In all cases where tethering is permissible, the following conditions must be met:

(1) The dog or cat must be attached to the tether by a buckle-type collar or a body harness. A dog or cat shall not be tethered by means of a choke-type, pinch-type, prong-type, or improperly fitting collar;
(2) The tether has the following properties: it is at least five times the length of the tethered animal’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 tethered animal’s weight; and it is free of tangles;
(3) The dog or cat is tethered in such a manner as to prevent injury, strangulation, or entanglement;
(4) If there are multiple dogs or cats, each dog or cat must be tethered separately. The tethering of each dog or cat must be in accordance with the requirements of this Code;
(5) The dog or cat 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 or cat has continuous access to water, adequate shelter, and dry ground;
(7) The dog or cat is at least six months of age. Puppies or kittens shall not be tethered; and
(8) The dog or cat is not sick or injured.

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:

The dog is in visual range of the responsible party, and the responsible party is located outside with the dog.
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.
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 ⅛ of the dog’s weight; and it is free of tangles.
The dog is tethered in such a manner as to prevent injury, strangulation, or entanglement.
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.
The dog has access to water, shelter, and dry ground.
The dog is at least six months of age. Puppies shall not be tethered.
The dog is not sick or injured.
Pulley, running line, or trolley systems are at least 15 feet in length and are less than 7 feet above the ground.
If there are multiple dogs, each dog is tethered separately.

Fernandina Beach, Florida
June 20, 2017

No dog or cat shall be tethered unattended. In cases when tethering is permitted, requirements must be met with regard to materials used to restrain the animal; tethered animals must have access to water, shelter, and dry ground; animals may not be kept outside during specific weather scenarios, such as hurricanes and extreme temperatures.

Sec. 18- 4. – Owner to exercise care and control; standards of care; prohibition of tethering
[. . .]
(e) Unlawful restraint of dogs and cats. No person shall tether, fasten, chain, tie, or restrain a dog or cat, or cause a dog or cat to be tethered, fastened, chained, tied, or restrained, to a dog house, tree, fence, or any other stationary object.
(f) Notwithstanding subsection (e) above, a person may do the following
(1) A dog or cat may be tethered when it is in visual range of the owner, and the owner is located outside with the tethered animal.
(2) Tether, fasten, chain, tie, or otherwise restrain a dog or cat pursuant to the requirements of a camping or recreational area.
(g) In all cases where tethering is permissible, the following conditions must all be met:
(1) The dog or cat must be attached to the tether by a buckle-type collar or a body harness. A dog or cat shall not be tethered by means of a choke- type, pinch-type, prong-type, or improperly fitting collar;
(2) The tether has the following properties: it is at least ten (10) feet in length; it terminates at both ends with a swivel; it does not weigh more than 10% of the tethered animal’s weight, and it is free of tangles;
(3) The dog or cat is tethered in such a manner as to prevent injury, strangulation, or entanglement,
(4) If there are multiple dogs or cats, each dog or cat must be tethered separately. The tethering of each dog or cat must be in accordance with the requirements of this Code;
(5) The dog or cat is not outside during a period of extreme weather, including without limitation extreme heat (over 85 degrees Fahrenheit) or cold temperatures (under 45 degrees Fahrenheit), thunderstorms, lightning storms, tornado watches or warnings, tropical storms, or hurricane watches or warnings;
(6) The dog or cat has access to water, adequate shelter, and dry ground;
(7) The dog or cat is at least six months of age. Puppies or kittens shall not be tethered;
(8) The dog or cat is not sick or injured; and
(9) No tether may extend any closer than six (6) feet from the perimeter fence or a lot line. If it is connected to a pulley, the running line must be at least fifteen (15) feet in length and less than seven (7) feet above the ground. If multiple dogs or cats, they must be tethered separately, with no sharing of running lines, or near enough to each other that they may become tangled. No animal shall be tethered so that it has access to public property, including easements and rights-of-way or property owned by another private individual or entity.
h) Penalties for violation of this section. The penalties for violation of this section are as follows: $100 citation for the first offense; $200 citation for the second offense; and $300 for the third offense. These fines apply to violations occurring within a five (5) year period. Appeals of citations shall be made in accordance with Section 2- 396 et seq. of this Code.

Hallandale Beach, 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.

Hernando County, Florida

May 10, 2016

This ordinance prohibits unattended chaining while providing criteria for lawful attended tethering.

Section 6-34. Regulation of Tethering.

In order to protect the public safety and welfare, the following conditions shall apply when tethering an animal:

A. No person, to include owner, harborer, or caretaker, 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.

B. The tether must be constructed of material sufficient to restrain the animal but may not place the animal in danger of injury or death. At no time shall the tether extend over an object or edge in such a manner that could result in strangulation, entanglement of or injury to the animal. Logging chains and vehicle tow chains may not be used to tether an animal. The addition of weight to an animal’s collar, harness, chain, or tether is prohibited.

C. The tether shall be of a length and weight to allow an animal to move at least ten feet in all directions from the point of tethering and allow entry and egress to proper shelter and enclosure as defined herein. No person shall keep an animal in any enclosure without daily exercise and change of air.

D. The tether shall be attached to a properly fitted buckle-style collar or buckle-style harness sufficient to restrain the animal. The tether must have an operative swivel attached to a collar or harness and may not be attached to a stationary object at a height higher than the animal’s neck in standing position. The tether must swivel on both ends and be free of tangles. A leash or lead may not be attached directly to the animal’s neck in lieu of a manufactured collar or harness. Choke, chain, slip, or prong type collars shall not be used on an animal when such animal is tethered.

E. The animal must have access to sufficient wholesome food and a continuous supply of clean, potable water, and freedom to move about and avoid area of animal waste, parasites, or anything that would adversely harm an animal’s health or safety.

F. The tethered animal must be at least six months of age and may not be sick or injured.

G. The animal may not be outside during extreme weather conditions, including, but not limited to, extreme heat or near-freezing temperatures or during thunderstorms, lightning storms, tornado watches or warnings, or during tropical storm or hurricane watches or warnings.

H. No tether may extend any closer than six feet from the perimeter fence or lot line. If it is connected to a pulley, the running line must be at least 15 feet in length and less than seven feet above the ground. If multiple dogs, they must be tethered separately, with no sharing of running lines, or near enough to each other that they may become tangled. No animal shall be tethered so that it has access to public property, including easements, and rights of way property, or the property of another.

I. When the animal is transported in a pickup truck with a metal bed, the animal shall be provided protection from the metal bed; and, shall be safely and properly tethered as defined herein.

J. Tethering and/or inappropriately sheltering an animal in violation of the provisions of this section shall be unlawful and a Class V violation of this Chapter. When a violation of this section occurs, and officer may take reasonable measures to remove the animal from the tether and/or inappropriate shelter and impound the animal. . .

K. No animal shall be tethered on vacant or abandoned property.

Hillsborough County, Florida
January 19, 2012

Sec. 6-33. 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:

The dog is in visual range of the owner, harborer or keeper who must also be physically present with the dog and attending to it while it is tethered; and
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
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
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.

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:

1) In attendance at, or participating in, any legal, organized publicly attended event in which both dog and owner are permitted attendees or participants;
Actively engaging 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;
Tethered, chained, tied, or restrained by a veterinarian or groomer while attending to the dog;
Trained, or being trained, to act in a law enforcement capacity;
Being lawfully used to actively hunt a species of wildlife in this state, during the hunting season, for that species of wildlife;
Tethered temporarily while being kept in a bonafide humane shelter approved by the Department or at a commercial boarding facility;
Tethered in accordance with the regulations of a camping or recreational area;
Being cared for as part of a rescue operation during a natural or man-made disaster; or
Being transported in a vehicle.

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, Florida
April 10, 2012

Sec. 4-41. – Prohibition of tethering dogs.

It is a violation of this section for any owner to tether a dog or to confine a dog on a tether, except when:
a. 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.
b. 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 bonafide 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 a vehicle.
c. 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.
The recommended penalty for a violation of this section is a fine of one hundred and fifty dollars ($150.00) for the first offense and five hundred dollars ($500.00) for any repeat violation within five (5) years of a previous offense. If injury or damage to the dog occurs such that care by a veterinarian is required, the recommended penalty shall be a fine of five hundred dollars ($500.00) for the first offense and one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) for any repeat violation within five (5) years of a previous offense. If severe injury or death of the dog results, the recommended penalty shall be one thousand dollars ($1,000.00) for the first offense and five thousand dollars ($5,000.00) for any repeat violation within five (5) years of a previous offense.

Lee County, Florida
2014

Tethering of animals to a stationary object is prohibited except for temporary tethering for recreational purposes under certain conditions.

Sec. 6-34. – Cruelty to animals.
(k) Supervision, confinement, caging and tethering.

(1) No person shall fasten, chain, tether, or otherwise tie an animal to any inanimate objects such as trees, buildings, fences, posts or other stationary or highly immobile objects by means of rope, chain, cable, leash, lead, strap or other physical restraint for the purposes of restraining an animal.
(2) Animals must wear a specifically manufactured and properly fitted collar or harness for purposes of attended, temporary tethering for recreational purposes. A leash or lead may not be attached directly to the animal’s neck in lieu of a manufactured collar or harness. Chain, choke or prong collars are prohibited during tethering of an animal.
(3) Perimeter property fencing, a kennel or a run may be used to restrain a domestic animal provided it is sufficient to prevent an animal from running at large. The minimum area for each animal must be configured so to as to provide each animal sufficient room to move about freely, stand, turn around and lie down without touching the sides of the perimeter fencing. It must also include a solid top or covered area and bottom to protect an animal from the direct rays of the sun, wind or rain, and it must be free from unsanitary conditions, including bodily waste, stagnant water and/or stale food, odor and parasites, including fleas, ticks and rodents.
(4) A structure in which an animal is housed must be well ventilated with fresh air by means of windows, doors, vents or fans.
(5) An electronic confinement system will be deemed an acceptable enclosure if the equipment is properly installed and maintained in continuous working order and the animal being contained wears the appropriate electronic collar when within the system perimeter.
(6) This section does not apply to animal owners using a leash or lead (including a retractable leash or lead) for the purposes of supervised recreational or outdoor enjoyment with their pet or caretakers of registered TNR colonies.

Leon County, Florida
2017

Tethering of an animal to a stationary object as a means of confinement or restraint is prohibited unless the person is outside with them and the animal is in full view of them at all times. In such circumstances, additional limitations apply.

Sec. 4-37. – Humane care required.
(e) Tethering. No person shall tether an animal to a stationary or inanimate object as a means of confinement or restraint unless such person is outside with the animal and the animal is at all times visible to such person. No person shall, under any circumstances, tether any animal in a manner that is injurious to the animal’s health, safety and well-being. Proper and humane tethering includes, but is not limited to, the following:
(1) Collars used to attach an animal should be comfortable and properly fitted. The use of choker collar or chain is prohibited.
(2) The tether shall not extend over an object or edge in such a manner that could result in strangulation of or injury to the animal. The length of the tether must be a minimum of six feet, or at least three times the length of the animal measured from the animal’s nose to the base of its tail, whichever is greater, unless the tether is being used to secure the animal to the bed of an open vehicle or pick-up truck. The tether must have a swivel at both ends to prevent entanglement. Restraints should allow the animal to move about and lie down comfortably. Pulley, running line, or trolley systems must be at least 15 feet in length and less than seven feet above the ground.
(3) Tethering of an animal is prohibited during severe weather events and natural disasters such as flood, fires, tornadoes, hurricanes or blizzard.
(4) No animal shall be confined to a vacant or abandoned structure or vacant property.
(5) The weight or gauge of any tether or chain shall not be more than one-eighth of the animal’s weight. Logging chains and vehicle tow chains are prohibited. No person shall add any weight to an animal collar, harness, chain or tether.
(6) The animal tethered must be at least six months of age. Puppies and kittens shall not be tethered.
(7) The animal tethered must not be sick or injured.
(f) Exceptions. Attended tethering is required except under the following circumstances:
(1) When actively engaging 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/animal.
(2) When participating in lawful activities such as hunting with a valid license issued by the state, or sporting events, field obedience training, field or water training, law enforcement training, veterinary treatment and or the pursuit of working or competing in these legal endeavors.
(3) When the animal is restrained in compliance with the requirements of a camping or recreational area.
(4) When the animal is restrained temporarily at a training facility, grooming facility, commercial boarding facility, animal shelter or veterinary facility.
(5) When using the dog at a dog training or performance event, including, but not limited to, field trials and obedience trials where tethering does not occur for a period exceeding, seven consecutive days.
(6) When being cared for as part of a rescue operation during a natural or manmade disaster or during a state of emergency.
(7) After taking possession of a stray and having notified animal control.
(8) When being transported in a vehicle.

Manatee County, Florida
May 2012

This ordinance bans unattended tethering, specifies the legal methods of tethering, and bans the tethering of animals younger than 6 months as well as tethering in extreme weather.

Sec. 2-4-8. Humane treatment of animals
(d) Under no circumstances shall a person improperly tether any animal. It shall be unlawful for any owner to tether an animal outdoors, except when all of the following conditions are met:
(1) The animal is within 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. This shall prohibit any pinch, prong or choke-type collars.
(3) The tether has the following features:
a. It is at least five (5) 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 the animal’s weight and shall not be tethered with a tow chain, log chain, padlock chain, or any other type of tether unsuitable for the animal’s size; 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 (6) 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 fifteen (15) feet in length and are less than seven (7) feet off the ground and in a manner that will not allow the animal to reach within the property of another person, a public walkway, or right-of-way.
(10) If there are multiple animals, each animal is tethered separately.

Marion County, Florida
2014

Unattended tethering is prohibited, and attended tethering is permitted under certain conditions.

Sec. 4-13. – Humane treatment for animals.
(g) The unsupervised, unattended outdoor tethering of a dog is prohibited except as provided herein:

(1) The dog must be in visible range of the owner or responsible party, which person must also be outside with the dog at all times. There is authorized the following narrow exception to this condition: The dog owner or responsible person may leave a dog tethered outdoors on the property for a reasonable period while such owner or responsible person performs a temporary task indoors. In no event may the owner or responsible person leave the premises while a dog is left tethered, unattended, outdoors. A dog may never be left tethered and unattended on vacant or abandoned property.
(2) Any tether must be of sufficient strength to prevent escape.
(3) The tether must be attached to the animal by a properly applied, buckle-type nylon or leather collar, or halter or harness, with a swivel hook, and configured so as to protect the animal from injury and prevent entanglement with other objects and/or animals.
(4) The tether shall not be attached to a stationary object or trolley at a point or location that would allow the animal to extend the tether over a fence or other object or edge in such manner that could result in the strangulation of or injury to the animal.
(5) The foregoing provisions regarding tethering do not apply to a lawful animal event, veterinarian treatment, grooming, training, or law enforcement.
(6) The provisions of subsection (1) above, do not apply to dogs that are kept or used on lands being used for a bona fide farm operation on lands classified as agricultural pursuant to F.S. § 193.461 [cf. sections 163.3162(3)(a), and F.S. § 823.14(6); see, definitions of “farm,” “farm operation,” and “farm product” at F.S. § 823.14(3)(a), (b), and (c)].

Martin County, Florida

November 24, 2015

This jurisdiction strengthened its previous ordinance, which had allowed 10 hours of tethering, by outright banning tethering under certain conditions.

Sec. 9.92. – Animal care and treatment.

The following shall constitute violations relating to the proper care and treatment of animals:

…

No dog shall be tethered unless all of the following conditions are met.
The dog is in visual range of the responsible party, and the responsible party is located outside with the dog.
Any tethering system employed shall not allow the animal to leave the owner’s property.
The dog is tethered in such a manner as to prevent injury, strangulation, or entanglement.
The dog is not sick or injured.
The dog is at least six (6) months of age, and no more than seven (7) years of age.
The dog has access to water, shade, and dry ground.
If there are multiple dogs, each dog is tethered separately.
The dog may not be tethered under weather conditions which endanger the health, safety or welfare of the animal; including but not limited to hurricanes, tropical storms or tornadoes.
The tether is attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog. Prong, choke or chain collars are prohibited in the use of tethering animals. A “choke” collar as used in this section shall mean any slip or sliding collar that restricts the animal’s airway.
The length and weight of the tether shall be appropriate for the animal breed and shall be a minimum of ten (10) feet long or five (5) times the length of the animal, as measured from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, whichever is greater.

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.

Nassau County, Florida
June 2018

Unattended tethering is not permitted. Attended tethering is permitted under certain conditions.

Sec. 6-54. – Animal care and animal cruelty.
(i) The unsupervised, unattended outdoor tethering of a dog or cat is prohibited except as provided herein:
(1) The owner or responsible person must be outside with the dog or cat. The dog or cat must be in visible range of the owner or responsible party.
(2) The tether must be attached to the dog or cat by a properly applied, buckle-type nylon or leather collar, or halter or harness, with a swivel hook, and configured so as to protect the animal from injury and death and prevent entanglement with other objects and/or animals. Welded metal chain link or logging chains and vehicle tow chains may not be used to tether an animal.
(3) The tether shall not be attached to a stationary object or trolley at a point or location that would allow the animal to extend the tether over a fence or other object or edge in such manner that could result in the strangulation of or injury to the animal.
(4) The foregoing provisions regarding tethering do not apply to dogs or cats participating in or attending an organized show, field trials, or sanctioned events.
(5) The animal, while restrained by tether, is able to access shelter to protect the animal from the weather, extreme temperatures and direct sunlight; and is able to access adequate water and adequate food.
(6) A tethered dog or cat must be at least six (6) months in age and free of illness and injury.
(7) The provisions of subsection (1) above, do not apply to dogs that are kept or used for a bona fide farm operation on lands classified as agricultural pursuant to F.S. § 193.461 [cf. sections 163.3162(3)(a), and F.S. § 823.14(6); see definitions of “farm,” “farm operation,” and “farm product” at F.S. § 823.14(3)(a), (b), and (c)].
(8) Multiple dogs must be tethered separately. Dogs may not share running lines or be near enough to each other that they may become entangled.
(9) Tethering regulations only apply to dogs and/or cats.
(10) It shall be unlawful for any person to cause, procure or inflict cruelty to or upon animals, whether or not such cruelty results in severe injury or death. It shall be considered causing, procuring, and/or inflicting cruelty, if the following occurs: Carrying any animal in or upon any vehicle in an inhumane way so as not to provide for the protection, safety and comfort of the animal being carried in conformance with federal, state and county requirements including, but not limited to, an animal which is enclosed in a vehicle and showing signs of hyperthermia.

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
March 15, 2011

Animals may not be tethered while unattended.

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.

Pasco County, Florida

April 23, 2013

This ordinance bans unattended tethering.

Sec. 14-104. – Tethering.

(a) As used in this section, tethering means to restrain a dog to any object or structure, including, without limitation, a house, tree, fence, post, garage or shed, by any means, including, without limitation, 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 person with physical control, custody, or care of a dog, or a person responsible for a dog’s care, to tether a dog outdoors, except when all of the following conditions are met:

(1) The dog is in visual range of the person described in subsection 14-104(b) above; and

(2) That person is outside with the dog while the dog is tethered.

(c) No operator of a motor vehicle shall transport or keep an animal in or on any motor vehicle, unless the animal is safely enclosed within the vehicle, or protected by a container, cage, or is secured by at least two points of restraint on opposite sides of the vehicle, or by another method or device that will prevent the animal from falling, being thrown, or jumping from the vehicle.

(d) Nothing in this section shall be deemed to prohibit the transportation of horses, cattle, sheep, poultry or other agricultural livestock in trailers or other vehicles designed and constructed for such purposes.

(e) It is intended that the provisions of this section are in addition to, and not intended to replace, the provisions in section 14-37 concerning cruelty.

Pembroke Park, Florida
January 11, 2012

Animals may not be tethered unless someone is with the animal and the animal is visible to that person at all times. Choke or prong collars may not be used for tethering, and dogs may not be tethered for purposes of training on any treadmill device. Dogs may not be kept outside during extreme weather.

Sec. 4-11. – Impoundment and care of dogs.

(a) 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 even, of a limited duration, that involves the judging or evaluation of animals.

(b) Any dog maintained outdoors for all or part of the day in a fenced yard or other type of enclosure shall be provided a minimum of eighty (80) square feet of open space. An additional forty (40) square feet shall be required for each additional dog kept in the same enclosed area. Each dog shall be provided sufficient shelter within the enclosed area. Any enclosed area where a dog is confined shall be kept free of objects that may injure the dog and shall be cleaned regularly to remove feces. Dogs shall not be maintained outdoors during periods of extreme weather including but not limited to hurricane, tropical storms, and tornados.

(d) Any owner, agent, employee, servant or other person having charge of the premises where any dog is located must provide clean, safe and humane conditions for dogs which are outdoors on private property, which conditions include, but are not limited to, sufficient food and water, shelter from cold, heat and rain with adequate shelter and ventilation.

Pinellas County, Florida
November 3, 2014

Sec. 14-31. – Unlawful restraint of dogs and cats.

(a) No person shall tether, fasten, chain, tie, or restrain a dog or cat, or cause a dog or cat 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 the following:

(1) A dog or cat may be tethered when it is in visual range of the owner, and the owner is located outside with the tethered animal.

(2) Tether, fasten, chain, tie, or otherwise restrain a dog or cat pursuant to the requirements of a camping or recreational area.

(1) The dog or cat must be attached to the tether by a buckle type collar or a body harness. A dog or cat shall not be tethered by means of a choke-type, pinch-type, prong-type, or improperly fitting collar;

(2) The tether has the following properties: it is at least five times the length of the tethered animal’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 tethered animal’s weight; and it is free of tangles;

(3) The dog or cat is tethered in such a manner as to prevent injury, strangulation, or entanglement;

(4) If there are multiple dogs or cats, each dog or cat must be tethered separately. The tethering of each dog or cat must be in accordance with the requirements of this code;

(5) The dog or cat 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 or cat has access to water, adequate shelter, and dry ground;

(7) The dog or cat is at least six months of age. Puppies or kittens shall not be tethered; and

(8) The dog or cat is not sick or injured.

Ponce Inlet, Florida
July 19, 2018

Unattended tethering of a dog or cat is prohibited. Tethering is permitted if the owner is outside with the animal and the animal is in full view under certain conditions, but no dog or cat shall be tethered between dusk and dawn.

Sec. 10-32. – Prohibition of tethering dogs or cats to stationary objects while outdoors; exception.
(a) No person shall tether an animal to a stationary object while outdoors or in a public park located in the Town of Ponce Inlet.
(b) An exception to the tethering prohibition is permitted if all of the following conditions are met:
(1) The animal must be in visible range of the owner or responsible party, which person must also be outside with the animal at all times. There is an authorized narrow exception to this sub-condition: The animal owner, or responsible person, may leave an animal tethered outdoors on the property for a reasonable period not to exceed 30 minutes while such owner or responsible person performs a temporary task indoors or on another section of the property. In no event may the owner or responsible person leave the property while an animal is left tethered and unattended outdoors.
(2) The tether is connected with a swivel hook to the animal’s buckle-type collar or a body harness made of nylon or leather that is of sufficient size to adequately and safely restrain the animal.
(3) The tether is of a size and weight that is reasonably necessary to safely restrain the animal without placing excessive strain or weight on the animal. It should not exceed one-tenth of the animal’s weight, it should be a length that is at least the greater of either five times the length of the animal measured from the nose to the tip of its tail, or ten feet. The trolley cable must not be elevated more than seven feet above the surface.
(4) The animal is not tethered outside in periods of extreme weather, including but not limited to extreme heat (in excess of 85 degrees) or cold (lower than 50 degrees), thunderstorms, lightning, tornadoes, tropical storms, or hurricanes.
(5) The animal has access to water, shelter, shade, and dry ground. The tether must be secured in such a way that it cannot become entangled with other objects and deprive the animal of water, shelter, shade, and dry ground.
(6) The animal is at least six months of age.
(7) The animal is not sick or injured.
(8) If there are multiple animals, each animal must be tethered separately.
(9) There shall be no tethering of any animal during the hours which occur from dusk until dawn.

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 22, 2009

Unattended tethering of dogs is prohibited, and attended tethering is subject to certain provisions.

Sec. 18-110. – Supervision, confinement and tethering of canines.
(a) As used in this section, tether means to restrain a canine by typing [sic] the canine 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 canine.
(b) It shall be unlawful for a responsible party to tether a canine while outdoors, except when all of the following conditions are met:
(1) The canine is in visual range of the responsible party, and the responsible party is located outside with the canine.
(2) The tether is connected to the canine 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 canine’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 canine’s weight; and it is free of tangles.
(4) The canine is tethered in such a manner as to prevent injury, strangulation, or entanglement.
(5) The canine 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 canine has access to water, shelter, and dry ground.
(7) The canine is at least six months of age. Puppies shall not be tethered.
(8) The canine 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 canines, each canine is tethered separately.
(c) This section shall not apply to the transportation of canines.
(d) For a first-time violation, the code enforcement officer shall issue a warning notice to the responsible party and shall wait at least ten 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 section 18-111 of this chapter or Chapter 2, Article V., Division 4 of the City Code. For all civil penalties for violations of this section collected pursuant to section 18-110, 50 percent of the amount collected shall be paid to Pinellas County Animal Services.

St. Lucie County, Florida
2019

Unattended tethering is prohibited. Attended tethering is allowed under certain conditions.

Sec. 6-26. – Animal care.
(j) No animal shall be tethered unless all of the following provisions are met:
(1) Animals younger than six months old, older than seven years, or ill shall not be tethered.
(2) The length and weight of the tether shall be appropriate for the animal breed and shall be a minimum of ten feet long or four times the length of the animal (measured from tip of nose to base of tail), whichever is greater.
(3) The tether must have swivels at both ends of the rope, chain or similar restraint for holding an animal in place, allowing a short radius in which it can move about and not become tangled.
(4) Prong, choke or chain collars are prohibited in the use of tethering an animal.
(5) The area which the animal may reach while tethered shall be free of entanglements.
(6) The length and location of the tether must not allow the animal to reach a fence or neighboring property.
(7) Collar weight shall be appropriate for the animal as determined by a reasonable person.
(8) A responsible person must be outside and within view of the animal at all times while tethered.
(9) A trolley system is permitted.
(10) An animal may not be tethered in extreme weather, including but not limited to hurricanes, tropical storms or tornados.
(11) The animal shall have access to a dry and raised area at all times.

Athens-Clarke County, Georgia
November 6, 2007

Dogs may be tethered only temporarily and only while attended by their owners.

Sec. 4-1-2. – Keeping domestic animals under control.

(a) 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.

Augusta, Georgia

No unattended tethering is permitted.

Sec 4-1-37. Tethering.

Dogs may be tethered outside so long as the owner remains outside with the dog and maintains the animal within the owner’s line of sight.

Bainbridge, Georgia
August 3, 2010

Dogs may not be tethered to a stationary object except while a person performs a temporary task for less than one hour. Dogs may be tethered to a running line, pulley, or trolley system.

Section 10-36. Dog Tethering

(a) No person shall tether, fasten, chain, tie, or restrain a dog, or cause a dog to be tethered, fastened, chained, tied, or restrained, to a dog house, tree, fence, or any other stationary object.

(b) Notwithstanding subdivision (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 collar or pinch collar.

(2) 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 period not to exceed one hour.

Butler, Georgia
2007

Animals may not be tethered.

Sec. 4-001. – Definitions.

Restraint means:

Having an animal on a leash or at heel or beside a competent person and obedient to that person’s commands.
Having an animal within a vehicle being driven or parked on the streets and roads of the city.
Having an animal in a fenced area within the real property limits of the owner, or otherwise authorized by the city. Invisible fence systems may be allowed if maintained in good working order and if they keep the animal contained. Any person using an invisible fence shall post a sign near the entrance to the property indicating an invisible fence is in use. A chain, cable, rope, or other stakeout or tie out device may not be used.

Chatham County, Georgia
2012

Dogs may not be tethered to a fixed point such that its normal needs are not met.

§22-102 Definitions. The following definitions shall apply in the interpretation and enforcement of this chapter:
[…]
9.Tethering- the prohibited act of causing an animal to be affixed to a stationary object in such a manner that its normal behaviors and needs are not met or affixed in any manner that limits an animal’s access to food and water. Tethering is not the act of securing an animal to more than one stationary object which allows for movement and access to food and water.
[…]
§22-206 Tethering. It shall be unlawful for anyone to tether a dog as defined herein. The Animal Services Officer is authorized to seize any dog so confined and impound the dog as if it were found at large. The same fees, fines and restrictions shall apply to the dog before it can be returned to the owner. An overhead run designed for natural and sufficient movement within a confined space that contains water and food is not considered tethering.

Clayton County, Georgia
August 17, 2010

Dogs may not be tethered to a stationary object. The use of trolley systems is allowed, but for no more than 12 hours in a 24-hour period and not between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.

Sec. 14-114. – Confinement of animals generally, vicious animals, etc.
(a) Confinement of dogs generally. An owner of a dog shall confine such dog:
(1) Within an adequate fence or enclosure of sufficient height and construction to prevent the dog from escaping by jumping, digging or any other means, provided such fence or enclosure shall be at least twice as high as the dog measured from the ground to the top of the dog’s head when standing on all paws but not more than six feet in height;
(2) Within a house, garage or other building, with adequate ventilation and fresh air to avoid over heating or cold;
(3) On a running cable line or trolley system and only one animal may be attached to each running cable or trolley system; no animal may be attached to a running cable line or trolley system for more than 12 hours in a 24-hour period. 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. Dogs on running cables must have access to adequate shelter, food and water as required by section 14-166 of this Code;
(4) It shall be unlawful for the owner or person in control of a dog to restrain any dog by means of a tether, chain, cable, rope, leash, or cord which is attached to a fixed object or staked to the ground.

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.

Douglas County, Georgia
January 15, 2008

Domesticated animals may not be tethered while unattended or as a permanent method of restraint.

Sec. 5-42. Confinement of animals generally, vicious animals, etc.

(a) An owner of a domesticated animal, whether vaccinated or not vaccinated, shall confine such domesticated animal within an adequate fence or enclosure or within a house, garage or other building to prevent the animal from running at large. No animal shall be tied or tethered as a permanent measure of restrain. [sic] No animal shall be left unattended on a chain, lead, runner, cable, rope, leash or similar tethering device.

Forsyth County, Georgia
February 1, 2018

No dog may be tethered as a means of primary or permanent confinement.

Sec. 14-32. – Duty to keep animal under restraint while on property—No tethering of dogs as primary means of restraint.

(a) It shall be the duty of every owner of any animal to ensure that it is confined by way of a fence, restraint, or other enclosure including activated invisible fence or in some other physical manner under the control of a competent person so that it cannot wander off the real property limits of the owner, it being the intent of this article that all animals be prevented from leaving, while unattended, the real property limits of their owners.

(b) The above requirement notwithstanding, it shall be unlawful for the owner of any dog to utilize a tether, chain, cable, rope, or cord as the primary method of restraining a dog, it being the intent of this section that tethering a dog shall be used only as a temporary restraint mechanism. In no event shall a dog be restrained by a tether, chain, cable, rope, or cord when the dog is not in the physical presence of and attended by the owner or adult custodian. The prohibition in this subparagraph shall have no application if the dog is in a park or recreational area where the rules of said park or recreational area require the tethering or physical restraint of dogs. Any tether used to temporarily confine a dog while attended by its owner or custodian must be attached to a properly fitted collar or harness and shall not be wrapped directly around the dog’s neck, except that veterinarians, employees of the county’s animal shelter, and professional dog handlers, trainers, and groomers may temporarily restrain a dog by a collar affixed around the neck if required as part of the commercial service being provided. Any such tether shall not be excessively heavy or weighted so as to inhibit the dog’s movement. It shall be prima facie evidence that a tether is impermissibly heavy if the weight of a dog’s tether exceeds ten percent of its body weight.

Fulton County, Georgia
September 4, 2009

Dogs may not be left tethered while unattended.

Sec. 34-205. Running at large

(b) (5) It shall be unlawful for the owner, custodian, or harborer of any dog to restrain or anchor such animal by means of a tether. Notwithstanding the prior sentence, a dog may be temporarily restrained by means of a tether while the dog is attended by its owner, custodian, or harborer.

(6) Any tether used to temporarily confine a dog while attended by its owner, custodian, or harborer as provided in subsection (5), above, must be attached to a properly fitted collar or harness and shall not be wrapped directly around the dog’s neck.

Gwinnett County, Georgia
July 1, 2015

This jurisdiction strengthened its previous ordinance by outright banning tethering under certain conditions.

Sec. 10-29. – Restraint.

(1) The owner or adult custodian of the animal must be outside with the animal at all times and the animal must be visible to the owner.

(2) Single point tethering is prohibited

(3) Tethering an animal by a trolley system is the only approved form of tether.

(4) Only one animal may be attached to each trolley system;

(5) Any cable attached to the trolley system and attached to 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;

(6) Tethers must be made of a substance which cannot be chewed by the animal, shall not weigh more than five percent of the body weight of the animal, and shall have a swivel on each end;

(7) The trolley system must be at least ten feet in length and mounted no more than seven feet above the ground level;

(8) The length of the tether from the 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) 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;

(10) The trolley 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;

(11) The animal is not outside during extreme weather, including, but not limited to extreme heat or near freezing temperatures, or storms;

(12) The animal is at least six months of age; and

(13) The animal is not sick or injured.

(14) When an animal is found tethered unattended but in compliance with the remaining provisions of this subsection and the owner has received no prior warnings, or citations concerning tethering, an officer may provide information or a warning about proper tethering methods.

Houston County, Georgia
2017

Tethering is prohibited.

Sec. 10-22. – Tethering.
It shall be unlawful to restrain an animal by tethering or any similar use of chain, cable, rope, runner 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)

Macon-Bibb County, Georgia
2014

Unattended tethering of a dog or cat is prohibited.

Sec. 5-22. – 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.

Statham, Georgia
2013

Dogs may not be tethered, although they may be attached to overhead trolley lines.

Addendum to Animal Control Ordinance for City of Statham
Tethering Prohibited

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 Statham.
…
Nothing in this ordinance 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 15 feet long, that allows the dog to move unhindered).

Terrell County, Georgia
January 17, 2012

No person shall permanently harness or tether an animal.

Marion, Indiana
April 1, 2014

Unattended tethering of an animal is prohibited.

§ 96.26 USE OF ROPES, CHAINS OR CORDS PROHIBITED.
No animal shall be tied or fastened by any rope, chain, or cord except under the direct supervision of the animal’s owner. Restrained animals must wear a properly fitted collar or harness made of leather or nylon, not of the choker type. This is not to prohibit the proper use of choker collars in the training of animals. The tying device shall be attached to the animal’s collar or harness. If a chain is used, such chain shall not have a total weight of more than one-eighth of the restrained animal’s body weight.

Frankfort, Kentucky
Dec. 16, 2010

Dogs may not be tethered while unattended.

90.31 CRUELTY TO ANIMALS UNLAWFUL.

(B) Other forms of cruelty declared unlawful include:

(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)

Gramercy, Louisiana
October 8, 2007

This ordinance completely prohibits the chaining of dogs to stationary objects.

Sec. 10-98. – Prohibit of chaining.

To prohibit the chaining or tethering of dogs and mandating that dog enclosures must provide 100 square feet of space for dogs over six months of age.

(a) Any person owning and/or controlling dogs shall have them vaccinated, shall not allow said animal to be tied or chained to dog houses, and/or other stationery [sic] 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 or on the property of the dog owner’s, or on any property within the corporate limits of the Town of Gramercy, Louisiana.

(c) Any dogs confined within a fenced yard must have an adequate space for exercise based on a dimension of at least 100 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 100 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.

(d) Nothing in this article shall be construed to prohibit owners or others walking dogs with a hand held leash.

(e) Nothing in this article 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.)

New Orleans, Louisiana
March 7, 2013

Tethering to a fixed point is prohibited, but dogs may be tethered to overhead running lines if certain requirements are met. Unattended tethering to overhead running lines is prohibited from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Sec. 18-2.1. Minimum standards of care for animals.
(b) Tethering. It shall be unlawful to tether a dog, except as follows. A dog may be restrained to an overhead running line, pulley, or trolley system under the following conditions:
(1) The tether is attached to the dog by means of a suitable, properly-fitted collar or harness not exceeding two inches in width. Choke or prong collars are not permitted. The tether must have a swivel on both ends.
(2) The tether provides access to adequate space for the dog to move about freely and cannot become entangled in such a way that would prevent the dog’s mobility or cause strangulation.
(3) At minimum, the tether should be four times the length of the dog from the tip of nose to the tip of the tail and the tether must allow the dog to lie down with its head flat on the ground and provide an additional 12 inches of slack.
(4) The tether is made of a durable, lightweight material that will not cause unnecessary stress on the dog. The tether shall not weigh more than three percent of the dog’s total body weight. Thick chains and other heavy lines are prohibited.
(5) The tether allows the dog to move at least 30 feet. Otherwise, the dog must be removed from the tether at least twice a day for exercise and/or socialization for a minimum of 60 minutes each day.
(6) The tether does not inhibit the animal’s access to shelter, shade, food and water; and
(7) Intact dogs may not be tethered under any circumstances.
(8) Dogs may not be tethered unsupervised between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

Shreveport, Louisiana
May 24, 2016

No animal shall be confined primarily by means of a tether. An animal may be tethered to a running cable or trolley system as a secondary means of restraint within a proper enclosure for no more than 15 hours in a 24-hour period.

Sec. 14-16. – Owner’s responsibilities.
(4) Owners of dogs and cats shall be responsible for compliance with the following:
. . .
(d) It shall be the responsibility of the owner to confine outside animals in an enclosed area, with the exception of cats. The primary enclosure should contain a minimum of 48 square feet (six feet by eight feet) per animal. There shall be no tethering of animals with chains, cables, ropes or any other such device in lieu of a proper enclosure. Outside animals that reside in a neighborhood with fencing restrictions must be kept inside or confined in an outside kennel with the minimum square footage as stated in this subsection. Any animal found in violation will be seized. The owner will have five days to correct the discrepancy or the animal will become the property of CPAS. Whether or not the animal is redeemed, the owner will be responsible for all fees. Whoever is found to be guilty of failing to provide the proper enclosure shall be fined not less than $250.00 nor more than $500.00 or serve five days in jail.
. . .
(9) Minimum requirements for dog and cat pens.
. . .
(b) Tethering as a secondary means of restraint to a proper enclosure. As a secondary means of restraint in a proper enclosure, an animal may be attached to a running cable line or trolley system providing that:
1) Subsection (d)(8) of this part is complied with.
2) A running cable line or trolley is set inside a proper enclosure.
3) Only one animal may be attached to each running cable line or trolley system.
4) This device must provide for humane, unrestrained range of movement for the animal [in order] to ensure that the animal is not exposed to hazard or injury and shall not prevent the animal from having food, water, shelter, adequate ventilation, [or] protection from the elements.
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.
6) No animal may be attached to a running cable line or trolley system for more than 15 hours in a 24-hour period.
7) The tether must be attached to a properly fitted harness or non-choke collar that weighs no more than one-eighth of the animal’s body weight. The running line must be at least ten feet in length and provide the animal with a minimum of 64 square feet of space to freely move about.
8) The area must be kept free from unsanitary conditions and vermin-harboring debris.
9) The dog may not be tethered outside during periods of extreme weather, including extreme heat or near-freezing temperatures, thunderstorms, tornadoes, tropical storms or hurricanes.
10) While participating in training sessions for hunting or competitive events, dogs shall be tethered with leashes of a minimum of ten feet. The tether must allow the dog ample room to sit, lay down and turn around. Water shall be provided at all times. No dogs shall be left unsupervised by the responsible party when tethered for these purposes.

Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana
July 9, 2014

Dogs may not be tethered to stationary objects, but trolley systems may be used between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m.

Sec. 5-9.1. Tethering prohibited; exception.
a. Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, it shall be unlawful for any person owning or keeping a dog to leave a dog tethered while unsupervised as a means of confinement.
b. A dog may be tethered to a running line, pulley, or trolley system in accordance with all of the following specifications:
1. Only one dog shall be attached to a tether at one time;
2. The minimum length of the trolley line shall be 15 feet;
3. The tether line shall weigh no more than 5% of the dog’s body weight and be made of a substance which cannot be damaged by the dog;
4. The dog shall be fitted with an appropriate harness or buckle-style collar properly fitted with room enough for two fingers to fit between the collar and the dog;
5. The use of pinch, weighted, or choke collars is prohibited;
6. The clamp of proper size and durability shall connect the dog’s harness to the tether line and a swivel of proper size and durability shall connect the tether line to the trolley line;
7. The trolley system shall maintain the dog’s freedom of movement and freedom from entanglement, and it shall allow access to food, water, shelter, and shade;
8. Both ends of the trolley line shall be attached to the stationary objects which cannot be moved by the dog;
9. All parts of the trolley line shall be situated at least 5 feet away from any fence to prevent strangulation;
10. The dog shall be at least four months old;
11. The dog shall be neutered/spayed, unless the dog is tethered within another secured enclosure as a primary means of restraint;
12. Under no circumstances shall a female dog in estrus be restrained by a trolley system without direct supervision by the owner or attendant;
13. No dog shall be tethered to a trolley system between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.

Queen Anne’s County, Maryland
February 24, 2015

This ordinance prohibits any form of tying, chaining, or tethering unless the dog is within visual range of his or her guardian.

9-15 Standard Regulations of Care for Domestic Animals and Domesticated Livestock

Tethering

Tethering is prohibited unless the dog is in visual range of the responsible party, and the responsible party is located outside with the dog.
A tether to confine a dog shall be a minimum of 15ft if the yard permits but under no circumstances less than 10ft.
The tether shall be comprised of a coated cable designed for animal use. (CHAINS & ROPES ARE NOT ACCEPTABLE). The cable must have swivels at both ends to prevent kinking and knotting. The cable must be attached to a buckle type collar or properly fitted harness. The harness or collar must be made of a material that prevents choking and shall be monitored regularly so as to assure proper fit, prevent discomfort or injury. The area covered shall be maintained so that the tether cannot become entangled or pose a substantial risk of injury to the dog and shall be positioned so that the dog cannot wrap the tether around posts, trees or debris, or hang by jumping a fence or guardrail, or drown by jumping into a pool.
Enclosed buildings and sheds that are used for shelter, see earlier reference regarding “Shelter”, shall have;
Readily available outdoor access and be properly ventilated.
Be reasonably lighted.
Provide protection from the weather.
Maintain a temperature considered safe for the animal’s health as determined by the breed and condition of the dog.
Kept in good repair at all times.

Talbot County, Maryland
April 9, 2019

Dogs may not be tethered unattended.

15- 8 Civil violations. . . .

G. A person must not tether a dog under circumstances that endanger its health, safety, or well-being, as stated below. Failure to provide relief to a dog in distress when exposed to any of the conditions listed below is proof that the dog was improperly, i.e., cruelly, tethered:

1) Leaving a dog on a tether Unattended at any time;

2) Tethering a dog between the hours of midnight — 6 a.m.;

3) Tethering of a dog during a weather emergency, or a dog -control emergency declared by the Director;

4) Using a tether that weighs more than 1/8 of the dog’s body weight;

5) Using a tether that does not have a swivel attached on each end;

6) Using a tether that is less than five (5) times the length of the dog, as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail;

7) Tethering that unreasonably limits a dog’s movement;

8) Tethering under conditions where the dog or tether can become entangled on the tether or some other object;

9) Tethering that restricts a dog’s access to suitable and sufficient food, clean water, and appropriate shelter;

10) Tethering in unsafe or unsanitary conditions;
11) Tethering that does not allow a dog to defecate or urinate in an area separate from the area where it must eat, drink, or lie down; or,

12) Tethering that causes injury, stress, or demonstrable socialization problems.

H. A person shall not tether, chain, fasten, tie, or otherwise restrain a cat to a house, tree, fence, or other stationary or immobile object.

Hazel Park, Michigan

July 14, 2015

No dog may be tethered unattended.

6.04.075 – Tethers.

A tether (chain, rope, cable) used to restrain a dog to a shelter must be at least three times the length of the dog, measured from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail. The tether must be attached to the dog by a harness or a non-choke collar. An adult shall be in the presence of the dog at all times that the dog is being tethered.

Hastings, Minnesota
January 21, 2014

Animals may not be left tethered unattended. Tethering shall not be used as a primary means of confinement.

§ 91.33 (G) Tethering.
a). No person shall leave an animal unattended while chained, tied, fastened or otherwise tethered for a period of time or to the extent that the animal is deprived of adequate food, water, or shelter.
b). No person shall tether an animal as a primary means of confinement. Stationary confinement by tethering shall be considered cruel treatment.
c). A single animal may be attached to a cable line or trolley system if the system allows the animal adequate access to food, water, and shelter with freedom to move, lie down, and access shelter.

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
June 4, 2018

Unattended tethering is prohibited. Attended tethering is subject to certain restrictions, including the type and length of tether.

Sec. 5-6. – Animal abuse; unlawful impoundment; unlawful confinement; tethering.
(d) Tethering. It shall be unlawful to tether any animal except under the following restrictions:
(1) No animal may be tethered as the primary method of restraining an animal to any property. No animal may be tethered for a period longer than thirty (30) minutes unless it has also been provided with adequate food, water and shelter suitable for the species, age and condition of the animal;
(2) No animal may be tethered unless supervised by a competent person physically present on the property;
(3) The tether must be of a type and weight that allows for the free movement of the animal and shall be no less than three (3) times the animal’s length or ten (10) feet, whichever is greater, free from any entanglements, and contain a swivel at both ends. At no time may any logging chain, tow chain or similar device be utilized as a tether;
(4) Animals must be tethered by a non-choke type collar or body harness constructed of either nylon or leather and no less than one (1) inch in width, unless the collar is a rolled leather collar;
(5) No dog under six (6) months in age may be tethered;
(6) Multiple animals must be tethered separately and in such a way that they may not become entangled with one another; and
(7) When tethered, an animal’s maximum reach must be no closer than ten (10) feet from any sidewalk or property line.

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.

Springfield, Missouri
November 17, 2015

This ordinance prohibits tethering for more than 30 minutes at a time.

Sec. 18-63 Tethering dogs.
(a) Any dog 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.
(b) Exceptions.
(1) Tethering shall be allowed on rare occasions when it is necessary for the dog owner or custodian to complete a temporary task that requires the dog to be physically restrained but shall not be for more than a reasonable time.
(2) Tethering shall be allowed for short periods of time, not to exceed 30 minutes, for the purpose of the dog to relieve itself.
(3) When a dog is tethered as allowed in the above exceptions, the dog must be tethered by a non choke type collar or a body harness to a tether that is at least three times the body length of the dog, measured from the dog’s nose to the back of the hindquarters and which tether is free from any objects that could cause entanglement or strangulation. The tether shall be proportional to the size and weigh no more than one-eighth of the dog’s body weight.
(4) When a dog is tethered as allowed in the above exceptions, any person having custody of such animal shall provide adequate shelter and adequate water for the dog, as defined in section 18-1. This section shall not apply to dogs used by law enforcement agencies in the performance of their duties, service dogs, or any facility in the city licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture, Missouri Department of Agriculture, or the Missouri Board of Veterinary Medicine.
(c) When riding outside the passenger compartment of a vehicle in transit or when tethered to a legally parked or otherwise situated vehicle, a dog must be secured by a non choke type collar or body harness, such that the dog cannot reach past the edge of any of the sides of the vehicle.
(d) Any person found guilty of a violation prescribed in this section shall, upon conviction thereof, be punished as provided by section 1-7, and each and every instance of violation shall be a separate offense.

Bellevue, Nebraska
March 25, 2013

Dogs may not be tethered for more than 15 minutes at a time, and a responsible adult must be present outside with the animal.

Sec. 6-22 Restraint – Dogs
(A) It shall be unlawful for the owner of any dog within the city to fail to keep his dog securely restrained or otherwise confined in or upon his premises in an enclosure sufficient to contain the dog.
(B) Each animal shall be separately tethered. No animal shall be tethered outdoors in excess of 15 minutes at any one time unless an owner, custodian or person responsible for the animal, 19 years of age or older, is present in the same yard in which the animal is tethered. The tether shall be 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, terminates at each end with a swivel, weighs no more than one-eighth of the animal’s weight, is free of tangles, prevents strangulation or injury and prevents the animal from being within 15 feet from the edge of any public street or sidewalk. Provided, that if the tethering method is a trolley system, at least 15 feet in length and less than seven feet above ground, and meets the foregoing tether requirements, the animal may be tethered outdoors for up to one hour with an owner, custodian or person responsible for the animal, 19 years of age or older, in the same yard in which the animal is tethered.
(C) In addition to the sanctions which may be imposed by law, any person who fails to keep his dog securely restrained or otherwise confined as required by this section shall pay the following penalties:
(1) For the first violation, a penalty in the sum of $100.00.
(2) For the second violation within 24 months of the first violation, a penalty in the sum of $205.00.
(3) For the third violation within 24 months of the first violation, and each subsequent violation thereafter, a penalty in the sum of $500.00.
(D) Such penalties shall be paid to the animal control authority and shall be used solely for enforcement activities.

Omaha, Nebraska
September 30, 2008

Dogs may not be tethered for more than 15 minutes at a time, and a responsible adult must be present outside with the animal.

Sec. 6-147. Restraint—Dog.
It shall be unlawful for the owner of any dog within the city to fail to keep his dog securely restrained or otherwise confined in or upon his premises in an enclosure sufficient to contain the dog.

Each animal shall be separately tethered. That no animal shall be tethered outdoors in excess of 15 minutes at any one time unless an owner, custodian or person responsible for the animal, 19 years of age or older, is present in the same yard in which the animal is tethered. The tether shall be 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, terminates at each end with a swivel, weighs no more than one-eighth of the animal’s weight, is free of tangles, prevents strangulation or injury and prevents the animal from being within 15 feet from the edge of any public street or sidewalk. Provided, that if the tethering method is a trolley system, at least 15 feet in length and less than seven feet above ground, and meets the foregoing tether requirements, the animal may be tethered outdoors for up to one hour with an owner, custodian or person responsible for the animal, 19 years of age or older, is in the same yard in which the animal is tethered.

In addition to the sanctions which may be imposed by law, any person who fails to keep his dog securely restrained or otherwise confined as required by this section shall pay the following penalties:
(a) For the first violation, a penalty in the sum of $100.00.
(b) For the second violation within 24 months of the first violation, a penalty in the sum of $250.00.
(c) For the third violation within 24 months of the first violation, and each subsequent violation thereafter, a penalty in the sum of $500.00.
Such penalties shall be paid to the animal control authority and shall be used solely for enforcement activities.

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.

Los Ranchos, New Mexico

June 8, 2016

This ordinance prohibits unattended chaining.

Section 7.2.5 OWNER’S DUTIES AND PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES

(C) RESTRAINT OF ANIMALS. A person owning or having charge, custody, care, or control over a companion animal, 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.

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.

Santa Fe, New Mexico
2020

Tethering of dogs is prohibited except in limited circumstances, such as while at a picnic or in emergencies where it is necessary to render aid to another animal.

5-5.4 – Restraint of animals
F. It is unlawful to confine a domestic animal by the use of a tether, chain, trolley, or similar restraint. Fixed point tethering of any domestic 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 other animal, and only when the owner is immediately present.

Santa Fe County, New Mexico

January 31, 2017

No unattended tethering is permitted.

Article 5, Section 5-2(A) [of Ordinance No. 1991-6] is repealed and replaced with the following:

A. It shall be unlawful to tether a dog as a form of confinement. Fixed point tethering of any dog to stationary objects is permitted in limited circumstances, such as picnics or gatherings in a park or open space, or for emergency purposes to permit an individual to render aide 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.

Sec. 3-12. Animal care.
(i) It shall be unlawful for an owner to leave a dog unattended and restrained by tether while outdoors.

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.

Sec. 3-21. – Keeping of animals; mistreatment, abandonment prohibited; care; restraining of dogs; exercise area for dogs.

(H)

No pet shall be tethered outdoors unless the keeper or owner of the pet is holding the tether.
It shall be an affirmative defense to a violation of subsection 1 above that the tethering is required to protect the safety or welfare of a person or the dog, if the keeper or owner of the dog remains with the dog throughout the period of tethering.
The provisions of subsection 1 above shall not apply to a temporary tether (a) during a lawful animal event, veterinary treatment, grooming, training, or law enforcement activity, or (b) to a keeper or owner walking a dog with a hand-held leash, or (c) during lawful hunting activities if reasonably necessary for the safety of the dog, or (d) while a dog is actively engaged in sheperding [sic] or herding livestock, or (e) when meeting the requirements of a camping or recreation facility, or (f) when the animal’s caretaker is outside and within eyesight of the animal, or (g) after taking possession of a dog that appears to be a stray dog and after having advised the Animal Control Department of the stray.
The provisions of subsection 2 and 3 above shall apply only if (a) the tether is not placed directly around the dog’s neck and is attached to a properly fitting collar or harness of nylon or leather worn by the dog, and (b) the weight of the tether does not exceed more than one-tenth of the dog’s body weight, and (c) the tether is unlikely to become tangled or twisted, and (d) the tether is arranged to be free of any obstacles which may limit the moveable length of the tether, and (e) the dog is tethered in a manner that permits access to necessary shelter and water.

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 tether shall be equipped with a swivel on both ends.
A tether shall be a minimum of ten (10) feet in length and shall be made of either metal chain or coated steel cable.
Tethers shall be attached to a buckle type collar or harness and under no circumstances shall the tether itself be placed directly around a dog’s neck. Tethers shall not be used in conjunction with training collars such as choke or pinch-style collars.
The weight of the tether shall not exceed ten percent (10%) of the total body weight of the dog but shall be of sufficient strength to prevent breakage.
The tether by design and placement shall allow the dog a reasonable and unobstructed range of motion without the possibility of entanglement, strangulation or other injury. The tether shall allow the dog access to adequate food, water and shelter.
A dog must be four (4) months of age or older to be tethered.
Only one dog shall be attached to a single tether.
Pulley systems, running lines and trolley systems may be used in conjunction with a tether.
Pulley systems, running lines or trolley systems shall be at least ten (10) feet in length and no more than seven (7) feet above the ground.

(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.

Enfield, North Carolina
October 21, 2013

Dogs may not be tethered to a stationary object.

Sec. 90.24 Tethering of dogs prohibited.

It shall be unlawful to tether a dog to a tree, fence, post, dog house, or other stationary object. For purposes of this section, “tethering” means to tie or fasten a dog to a rope, chain, or other line for restraining a dog outdoors. The term does not mean to restrain a dog on an attended leash.

Sec. 90.25 Proper restraint of unattended dogs.

It shall be unlawful to keep any dog on private property unless it is retrained by a fence (including a wooden, metal, or electronic fence) or other such enclosure that is at least 50 square feet per dog and of sufficient height, weight, durability, strength, or other physical property to prevent the dog from escaping, unless the dog is restrained with a leash by a person of sufficient age and physical size or ability to restrain the animal. Dogs may be temporarily confined in an outdoor kennel for a reasonable period of time.

Forsyth County, North Carolina
October 24, 2016

This ordinance outlines limits on and standards for tethering, in addition to specifying penalties for failure to comply.

[S]ection 6-6 of the Forsyth County Code is hereby amended by replacing section 6-6(d) with the following, so as amended, to read:

(d) Tethering. It shall be unlawful for any person to restrain a dog using a chain, wire or other type of tethering device in a manner prohibited by this subsection.

No person shall tether, fasten, chain, tie, or restrain a dog, or cause such restraining of a dog, to a tree, fence, post, dog house, or other stationary object. During periods of tethering that are not unlawful under this subsection, any tethering device used shall be at least ten feet in length and attached in such a manner as to prevent strangulation or other injury to the dog or entanglement with objects.
No person shall tether, fasten, chain, tie, or restrain a dog, or cause such restraining of a dog, to a cable trolley system, that allows movement of the restraining device. During periods of tethering that are not unlawful under this subsection, the length of the cable along which the tethering device can move must be at least ten feet, and the tethering device must be of such length that the dog is able to move ten feet away from the cable perpendicularly and attached in such a manner as to prevent strangulation or other injury to the dog and entanglement with objects. During periods of lawful tethering under this subsection, tethers must be made of rope, twine, cord, or similar material with a swivel on one end or must be made of a chain that is at least ten feet in length with swivels on both ends and which does not exceed ten percent of the dog’s body weight. All collars or harnesses used for the purpose of the lawful tethering of a dog must be made of nylon or leather.
No person shall tether a dog with a chain or wire or other device to, or cause such attachment to, any collar other than a buckle type collar or body harness.
No person shall tether with a chain or a wire or other device to, or cause such attachment to, a head harness, choke-chain type collar or spiked/pointed studded/pronged collar to a dog.
No person shall tether with a chain, wire or other device to a dog where the weight of the tethering device and the collar combined exceeds ten percent of the dog’s body weight.
No person shall tether with a chain or wire or other device a dog in such a manner that does not allow the dog full access to adequate food, water and shelter.
No person shall tether a sick, diseased and/or injured dog, or puppy (a dog that is one year of age or younger).
Notwithstanding the provisions of 6-6(d) I. and 2. of this section, a person may, subject to:
- the provisions of subsections 6-6(d) 3.- 8.;
- the requirements that any stationa1y tethering device used, shall be at least ten feet in length; and
- the requirements that for any cable trolley system used, the length of the cable along which the tethering device can move, must be at least ten feet, and the tethering device must be of such length that the dog is able to move ten feet away from the cable perpendicularly:

Tether and restrain a dog while actively engaged in:

a. Usage of the dog in shepherding or herding livestock, or

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, or

d. Use of the dog at dog training or performance events, including but not, limited to the field trials and obedience trials where tethering does not occur for a period exceeding seven consecutive days, or

e. Camping or other recreation where tethering is required by the camping or recreational area where the dog is located, or

f. Any activity where a tethered dog is in visual range of its owner or keeper, and the owner or keeper is located outside with the dog, or

g. Taking possession of a dog that appears to be a stray dog in accordance with these provisions for a period not to exceed seven days, after advisory animal control authorities of the capture of the dog, as the person having taken possession of the dog is seeking the identity of the dog, or

h. Walking a dog with a handheld leash.

[S]ection 6-6 of the Forsyth County Code is hereby amended by replacing section 6-6(e) with the following, so as amended, to read:

Section 6-6(d) shall become effective 12 months after the adoption of this amendment. Any person who violates Section 6-6(d) after its adoption date, but prior to the 12 month period following the date of this amendment shall be issued a written warning giving the violator notice of the provisions of this amendment. The written warning shall include information about sources that provide assistance to the public with providing enclosures which do not require the dog to be tethered. Any person who violates this amendment after the expiration of the 12 month period following the date of adoption of this amendment shall be subject to the penalties established in Section 6-55, Violations and Penalties of the Forsyth County Code.

Garysburg, North Carolina
January 21, 2022

Dogs may only be tethered under certain circumstances.

Section 81.26 Animals

Proper Care of Animals

Access to proper shelter and protection from the weather.
Minimum pen size is 10 x 10. An additional 50 ft. is required for every additional animal included in the pen. Minimum height is 6 feet.
Sufficient food and water to keep them in good health and comfort.
The opportunity for vigorous daily exercises.
Veterinary care when needed to prevent suffering and provide humane care and treatment.
Rabies vaccination.
Pen shall be properly cleaned.

Carcasses, debris, food waste and excrement are removed from an animal’s living space (including pen and shelter) with sufficient frequency, (no less than once a day) to minimize the animals contact with the above mentioned contaminants.

Chains are prohibited. If you wish to tether your animal you must use a tie-out at least 15 ft. long and long enough for the animal to have access to food, water and shelter.
Dogs shall not be tethered when penned.

Guilford County, North Carolina
November 23, 2013

This ordinance prohibits unattended tethering except during particular activities, such hunting and performance events.

Section 5-15. Cruel treatment prohibited.

(i) Tethering. It shall be unlawful for any person to restrain a dog using a chain, wire or other type of tethering devise in a manner prohibited by this subsection.

No person shall tether, fasten, chain tie, or restrain a dog, or cause such restraining of a dog, to a tree fence, post, doghouse, or other stationary object. During periods of tethering that are not unlawful under this subsection, any tethering devise [sic] used shall be at least 10 feet in length and attached in such a manner as to prevent strangulation or other injury to the dog or entanglement with objects
No person shall tether, fasten, chain, tie, or restrain a dog, or cause such restraining of a dog, to a cable trolley system, that allows movement of the restraining device. During periods of tethering that are not unlawful under this subsection, the length of the cable along which the tethering device can move must be at least 10 feet, and the tethering device must be of such length that the dog is able to move 10 feet away from the cable perpendicularly and attached in such a manner as to prevent strangulation or other injury to the dog and entanglement with objects. During periods of lawful tethering under this subsection, tethers must be made of rope, twine, cord, or similar material with a swivel on one end or must be made of a chain that is at least ten (10) feet in length with swivels on both ends and which does not exceed ten (10) percent of the dog’s body weight. All collars or harnesses used for the purpose of the lawful tethering of a dog must be made of nylon or leather.
No person shall tether a dog with a chain or wire or other device to, or cause such attachment to, any collar other than a buckle-type collar or body harness.
No person shall tether with a chain or a wire or other device to, or cause such attachment to, a head harness, choke-type collar or pronged collar to a dog.
No person shall tether with a chain, wire or other device to a dog where the weight of the tethering device and the collar combined exceeds ten (10) percent of the dog’s body weight.
No person shall tether with a chain or wire or other device a dog in such a manner that does not allow the dog access to adequate food, water and shelter.
No person shall tether a sick, diseased and/or injured dog, or puppy (a dog that is one year of age or younger).
Notwithstanding the provisions of 5-15 (i)a &b of this subsection, a person may, subject to the provisions of subsections 5-15 (i) c-h, and subject to the requirement that any stationary tethering device used, shall be at least 10 feet in length, and subject to the requirement that for any cable trolley system used the length of the cable along which the tethering device can move must be at least 10 feet, and the tethering device must be of such length that the dog is able to move then feet away from the cable perpendicularly, may:
Tether and restrain a dog while actively engaged in:
Usage of the dog in shepherding or herding livestock, or
Use of the dog in the business of cultivating agricultural products, of [sic] the restraining is reasonably necessary for the safety of the dog, or
Use of the dog in a lawful hunting activities if the restraint is reasonably necessary for the safety of the dog, or
Use of the dog at a dog training or performance events, including but not, limited to the field trials and obedience trials where tethering does not occur for a period exceeding seven consecutive days, or
Camping or other recreation where tethering is required by the camping or recreational area where the dog is located, or

ii. 6. [sic] Any activity where a tethered dog is in visual range of its owner or keeper, and the owner or keeper is located outside with the dog. After taking possession of a dog that appears to be a stray dog and after having advised animal control authorities of the capture of dog, tether and restrain the dog in accordance with the provisions for a period not to exceed seven (7) days as the person having taken possession of the dog is seeking the identity of the dog.

Walk a dog with a handheld leash.

Halifax County, North Carolina
December 2, 2019

Sec. 14-12. Mistreatment of animals prohibited.

(3) b. Prohibition Against Tethering of Dogs. It shall be unlawful to tether an unattended dog outdoors, including hunting dogs. When on the property of the dog owner, dogs may run loose when attended by a responsible person who can control the dogs either by voice commands or by a leash. When on the property of the dog owner, dogs may run unattended if kept in a penned area, secured enclosure or an area surrounded by an effectively operating electronic fence. The prohibition regarding when or where dogs may run loose shall not apply to hunting dogs when they are being used for lawful hunting purposes. For the first six months following the effective date of this subsection, only warning citations shall be issued for violations.

New Hanover County, North Carolina
December 20, 2010

Dogs may not be tethered except under certain conditions, such as obedience training and law-enforcement training.

Sec. 5-30. Restraint (dogs tied out).

A dog shall be maintained securely on the property of its owner. Ropes, chains and the like are prohibited for any purpose under this chapter. Exceptions to restraint are as follows: organized and lawful dog functions; e.g., dog exercise within designated areas of public parks, hunting, obedience training, field and water training, law enforcement training and/or in the pursuit of working or competing in those legal endeavors.

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.

Scotland Neck, North Carolina

August 1, 2016

Dogs may not be tethered unattended.

§ 90.29 PROHIBITION AGAINST TETHERING OF DOGS.

(A) It shall be unlawful to tether an unattended dog.

(B) When on the property of the dog owner, dogs may run loose when attended by a responsible person who can control the dog either by voice commands or by a leash.

(C) When on the property of the dog owner, dogs may run unattended if kept in a secure area, including a fenced-in area, or when kept in a PEN, as defined in § 90.01, of sufficient strength and height to prevent the dog from escaping. Penalty, see § 90.99

Weldon, North Carolina
November 4, 2013

No unattended tethering is permitted.

Sec. 90.29 PROHIBITION AGAINST TETHERING OF DOGS.

(A) It shall be unlawful to tether an unattended dog.

(B) When on the property of the dog owner, dogs may run loose when attended by a responsible person who can control the dog either by voice commands or by a leash.

(C) When on the property of the dog owner, dogs may run unattended if kept in a secure area, including a fenced-in area or when kept in a PEN (as defined above) of sufficient strength and height to prevent the dog from escaping. Penalty, see § 90.99

Woodland, North Carolina
May 7, 2015

No dog shall be tethered as a means of permanent confinement.

§ 81.03 Containment – Running at Large – Requirements
C. Proper enclosure: […] It shall NOT be allowed to tether, chain or tie a dog to any fixed object as a means of permanent confinement.

Brunswick, Ohio

February 27, 2017

Unattended tethering is not permitted, except for periods not exceeding an hour when the owner is also present on the property.

618.28 TETHERING DOGS

(a) As used in this Section:

(1) “Body harness” means a device consisting of straps made of nylon, leather or other pliable material fitted to the body of a dog and used to affix a restraint of the animal.

(2) “Collar” means a device consisting of straps made of nylon, leather or other pliable material secured around the neck of a dog that is properly fitted and has enough room between the collar and the dog’s throat through which two adult fingers may fit. Choke collars and pinch collars are prohibited for purposes of tethering a dog.

(3) “Properly fitted” means worn without causing discomfort, pain or injury.

(4) “Tether” means, when used as a noun, any device, including but not limited to a chain, leash, cable or tie out attached to a stationary point or object, trolley or run used to contain or restrain a dog. When used as a verb, tether shall mean to attach a dog to such a device.

(b) Nothing in this section shall prohibit the tethering of a dog that is in the immediate proximity of its owner or custodian, in a manner that does not cause discomfort, paid or injury to the dog.

(c) No person shall tether or cause to be tethered any dog that is not in the immediate vicinity of its owner or custodian except under all the following conditions:

(1) The owner or custodian is present on the property;

(2) Such tethering does not exceed sixty (60) continuous minutes;

(3) The dog is six months of age or older;

(4) If female, the dog is sterilized;

(5) The tether does not exceed ten percent of the dog’s body weight;

(6) The tether is at least three times the length of the dog from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail;

(7) The tether allows the dog to easily stand, sit, lie, turn around, and make all other normal body movements in a comfortable normal position;

(8) The tether allows the dog to interact safely with other animals;

(9) The tether is appropriate for the age and size of the dog and attached to the dog by a properly fitted collar or body harness configured to prevent the dog or tether from becoming entangled with other objects or animals or from extending over an object or edge that could result in the strangulation or injury of the dog;

(10) Only one dog is attached to a single tether;

(11) The dog is not tethered in such a manner to permit the dog to cross and enter upon another’s property, except that the same shall not be unlawful if the affected owner or person having lawful possession thereof provides consent; and

(12) Adequate water is provided to the dog.

(d) Whoever violates or fails to comply with any provisions of this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor on the first offense and a misdemeanor of the fourth degree on each subsequent offense occurring within 12 months from the previous offense and shall be subject to the penalty provided in Section 698.02.

Altus, Oklahoma
May 16, 2017
(Effective June 15, 2017)

No animal shall be tethered unless authorized by the animal control supervisor on a temporary basis for exceptional circumstances.

Sec. 5-10. Tethering of Animals
(a) No person shall, at any time, fasten, chain, or tie any animal or cause such animal to be fastened, chained or tied while such animal is on the animal owner’s or keeper’s property or on the property of the animal owner’s or keeper’s landlord, except as authorized by the animal control supervisor on a temporary basis for warranted exceptional circumstances.
(b) Any person in violation of this section shall pay a fine of $150 for the first occurrence, plus court costs and any impoundment fees. Any second or subsequent violation of this section shall pay a fine of $500, plus court costs and any impoundment fees.”

Lawton, Oklahoma
May 10, 2007

Dogs may not be tethered unless authorized by an animal welfare officer or animal welfare supervisor.

5-1-120 Keeping of Animals; Mistreatment; Service Dogs

F. 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 or keeper’s property or on the property of the dog owner’s or keeper’s landlord, unless authorized by an animal welfare officer or the animal welfare supervisor.

Norman, Oklahoma
May 28, 2019

No dog or cat shall be tethered unattended.

Sec. 3-402. – Tethering.
(1) It shall be unlawful for the owner of any dog or cat to keep or maintain the animal on a tie-out, tether, picket, or similar device consisting of a rope, cable, or other type of tether for any duration unless continually supervised by its owner or other adult responsible for the animal at the time. Exemptions to this section may be granted by any Animal Welfare Officer or Commissioned Police Officer.
(2) Any person who receives an exemption shall ensure that the animal will not be on the tie-out, tether, picket, or similar device for any duration under conditions which may reasonably threaten the health or well-being of the animal. The owner of a dog or cat maintained on a tether of any type shall properly fit the animal with a harness or collar to which the tether shall be attached. The tether shall be of adequate length to allow reasonable exercise, access to water, shelter, and shall not be subject to entanglement with other objects in any manner that may cause the animal any injury or clear discomfort or be of a weight disproportionate to the size of the animal so tethered as to unduly burden the animal. Tethering dogs or cats using chains or prong collars is prohibited. Tethering of an unsupervised dog or cat is prohibited when the outside air temperature is not between thirty-five (35) and eighty-five (85) degrees Fahrenheit.

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
May 14, 2013

Dogs may not be tethered for longer than it takes the owner or responsible person to complete a temporary task for which the dog must be restrained. Dogs may not be left outside unattended in severe weather.

3-505.6 Tethering of dogs outdoors
It shall be unlawful for any person to tether, fasten, chain, tie, restrain or cause an unattended dog to be fastened, chained, tied or restrained to houses, trees, fences, garages, stakes 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 satisfied:
A. The tethering is not for a longer period of time than reasonably necessary for the dog’s owner or custodian to complete a temporary task that requires the dog to be physically restrained.
B. The tether is attached to the dog by a non-choke-type collar and attached to the stationary object by swivel anchors, latches, or similar devices in a manner which prevents the tether from becoming entangled around any object so as to limit the dog’s freedom within the tethered area or to prevent the dog, or any of its appendages, from becoming entangled by the tether.
C. The tether must be of a type commonly used for the size of the dog involved, and if the tether is a chain, it may not be thicker than 1/8 inch.
D. The dog has easy access to potable drinking water, edible food and adequate shade and/or shelter within the tethered area.
E. The dog is periodically monitored while tethered for the aforementioned reasonable period of time.
F. The dog is not tethered outdoors in violation of §3-505.7

Mount Wolf, Pennsylvania
2012

Unattended tethering is only permitted when the dog is required to be restrained while the owner completes a temporary task.

§ 162-13 Unlawful actions; exceptions.
It shall be unlawful for any person to tether, fasten, chain, tie, restrain or cause an unattended dog to be fastened, chained, tied or restrained to houses, trees, fences, garages, stakes, or other stationary or highly immobile objects by means of rope, chain, strap or other physical restraint for the purpose of confinement, except in circumstances where all the following requirements are satisfied:
A. The tethering is not for a longer period of time than necessary for the dog, owner or custodian to complete a temporary task that requires the dog to be physically restrained for a reasonable period of time; and
B. The tether is attached to the dog by a non-choke type collar and attached to the stationary object by swivel anchors, latches, or similar devices in a manner which prevents the tether from becoming entangled around any object so as to limit the dog’s freedom within the tethered area, or prevent the dog, or any of its appendages, from becoming entangled by the tether; and
C. The dog has easy access to clean drinking water and adequate shade and/or shelter within the tethered area; and
D. The dog is periodically monitored while tethered for the aforementioned reasonable period of time; and
E. The dog is not tethered outdoors during any period in which severe weather warning has been issued for York County by the National Weather Service; and
F. The dog is not tethered outdoors for a continuous period of time greater than 1/2 hour if the temperature during such period remains entirely either:
(1) Below 32° F.
(2) Above 90° F.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
2017

Tethering is allowed only for the time it takes the owner to complete a temporary task. It is also prohibited during extreme weather.

§ 633.23 Tethering of dogs; prohibition of keeping dogs outdoors in extreme weather.
(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to tether, fasten, chain, tie, restrain or cause an unattended dog to be fastened, chained, tied or restrained to houses, trees, fences, garages, stakes 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 satisfied:
(1) The tethering is not for a longer period of time than reasonably necessary for the dog, owner or custodian to complete a temporary task that requires the dog to be physically restrained; and
(2) The tether is attached to the dog by a nonchoke-type collar and attached to the stationary object by swivel anchors, latches, or similar devices in a manner which prevents the tether from becoming entangled around any object so as to limit the dog’s freedom within the tethered area or to prevent the dog, or any of its appendages, from becoming entangled by the tether; and
(3) The tether must be of a type commonly used for the size of the dog involved and if the tether is a chain, it may not be thicker than one-eighth (⅛) of an inch; and
(4) The tether shall be at least three (3) times the length of the dog as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail, but no less than ten (10) feet in length and shall allow the dog convenient access to the dog house; and
(5) The dog has easy access to:
a. Potable drinking water;
b. Edible food; and
c. Adequate shade and/or shelter within the tethered area.
(6) The dog is periodically monitored while tethered for the aforementioned reasonable period of time; and
(7) The dog is not tethered outdoors during any period in which a severe weather warning has been issued for Allegheny County by the National Weather Service; and
(8) The dog is not tethered outdoors for a continuous period of time greater than one-half (½) hour if the temperature during such period remains entirely either:
a. Below thirty-two (32) degrees Fahrenheit; or
b. Above ninety (90) degrees Fahrenheit.
(b) It shall be unlawful for any person to leave any dog—tethered or untethered—outside and unattended during any period in which a severe weather warning has been issued for Allegheny County by the National Weather Service for a continuous period of time greater than one-half (½) hour, or, if the temperature during such period reaches:
(1) Below thirty-two (32) degrees Fahrenheit; or
(2) Above ninety (90) degrees Fahrenheit.
OUTSIDE, for purposes of this section, shall mean any unattended dog that is outside subject to the weather and elements, which expressly includes, but not limited to, a dog in a securely fenced-in yard, a dog in a kennel, or a dog tethered or tied out. The dog shall be considered “outside” regardless of access to an outdoor doghouse or similar structure.

Reading, Pennsylvania
March 27, 2017

No dog shall be tethered unattended except for a reasonable amount of time to allow a person to complete a temporary task that requires the animal to be restrained. No dog shall be tethered during extreme cold or extreme heat as defined by the ordinance.

§ 141-207. Code Blue/Code Red.
The City’s Animal Control Officer shall have the authority to announce/call a Code Blue, relating to extreme cold, or Code Red, relating to extreme heat, requiring the owners of dogs to protect the unattended dog from the extreme heat or cold by bringing the dog into the place where the owner or person who has custody, control or possession of the dog resides.
(1) A Code Blue may be called by the Animal Control Officer when the National Weather Service (NWS) predicts a wind chill temperature of 20° F. or below or precipitation with temperatures below 32° F .
(2) A Code Red may be called by the Animal Control Officer when the National Weather Service (NWS) predicts a heat index at 95° F. or above.

§ 141-208. Tethering prohibited.
It shall be unlawful for any person to tether, fasten, chain, tie, restrain or cause an unattended dog to be fastened, chained, tied or restrained to houses, trees, fences, garages, stakes 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 satisfied:
(1) The tethering is not for a longer period of time than reasonably necessary for the dog’s owner or custodian to complete a temporary task that requires the dog to be physically restrained, and
(2) The tether is attached to the dog by a non-choke type collar and attached to the stationary object by swivel anchors, latches, or similar devices in a manner which prevents the tether from becoming entangled around any object so as to limit the dog’s freedom within the tethered area, or to prevent the dog, or any of its appendages, from becoming entangled by the tether, and
(3) The tether must be of a type commonly used for the size of the dog involved and if the tether is a chain, it may not be thicker than one-eighth of an inch, and
(4) The dog has easy access to (i) potable drinking water, (ii) edible food and (iii) adequate shade and/or shelter within the tethered area, and
(5) The dog is periodically monitored while tethered for the aforementioned reasonable period of time, and
(6) The dog is not tethered outdoors in violation of § 141-207, Code Red or Code Blue above.

Greer, South Carolina
November 25, 2008

Animals may not be kept tethered as a permanent means of confinement.

Sec. 10-64. – Confinement of animals.
(a) No animal, including dogs, cats or other domestic pets shall be tethered as a means of permanent stationary confinement.

Johnson City, Tennessee
November 21, 2019

Effective January 1, 2020, dogs may not be tethered for longer than 12 consecutive hours. Beginning January 1, 2021, dogs may not be tethered unattended.

10-103. Restraint.

(4) Restraints while on owner’s property. Beginning January 1, 2020, a dog or puppy may be placed on a trolley/pulley system in his/her own yard for a period of time that does not exceed twelve (12) consecutive hours per day. The dog may not be tethered for the twelve (12) hour period to a fixed post unless attended or under observation. The trolley must be at least four ( 4) feet off the ground and no more than seven (7) feet off the ground, and at least ten (10) feet from support to support. Tethers must have swivel connectors on both ends and allow for freedom of movement. All chains/tethers must be attached to a properly fitting buckle collar or snap collar, or to a harness, (choke or pinch collars are prohibited). Chains/tethers must be less than 10% of the dog’s weight. Any tethering system shall not allow the dog or puppy to leave the owner’s property. The animal must have appropriate housing per Section 10-105, access to food and water and must be safe from attack by other animals. Only one dog per trolley is allowed.

Beginning January I, 202I, no dog may be tethered or chained and left unattended. A dog or puppy may only be tethered or chained to a fixed object if the animal is under the observation of its owner. No puppy under the age of six-months shall be placed on a trolley/pulley system or tethered. Owners also have the option of providing a fence or pen for dogs that allows at least 10′ by 10′ of space per dog as detailed in Section 10-105 (2).

Arlington, Texas
May 1, 2012

Dogs may not be tethered, with certain exemptions allowed.

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, Texas
2007

Dogs may not be tethered, with certain exemptions allowed.

§ 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).

Bastrop, Texas

No dog may be kept tethered.

Sec. 2.06.008 – 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 in subsection (a) does not apply to a temporary restraint, which temporary restraint shall not be longer than is necessary for the owner to complete a temporary task that requires the dog to be restrained occurring:

(1) During a lawful animal event, veterinary treatment, grooming, training, or law enforcement activity;

(2) During a period that is necessary to protect the safety or welfare of a person or the dog, if the dog’s owner or handler remains in visual proximity to the dog throughout the period of restraint;

(3) While the owner is engaged in, or actively training for, an activity for which the license issued is associated with the use or presence of a dog.

(c) If temporary restraint is allowed as per subsection (b), above, then during any such temporary restraint, a person may not restrain a dog:

(1) In a manner that does not allow the dog to have access to necessary food, shelter and water;

(2) In a manner that allows the dog to move outside the person’s property;

(3) In the case of extreme weather conditions, including conditions in which:

(A) The actual or effective temperature is below thirty-two (32) degrees Fahrenheit;

(B) A heat advisory has been issued by a local or state authority, or jurisdiction; or

(C) A hurricane, tropical storm, or tornado warning has been issued for the jurisdiction by the National Weather Service;

(4) Between the hours of 10:00 p.m. or 6:00 a.m.;

(5) Within 500 feet of the premises of a school;

(6) By use of a restraint that unreasonably limits the dog’s movement. A restraint unreasonably limits a dog’s movement if the restraint:

(A) Uses a collar that is pinch-type, prong-type, or choke-type or one that is not properly fitted to the dog;

(B) Is a length shorter than the greater of:

(i) Five (5) times the length of the dog, as measured from the tip the of dog’s nose to the base of the dog’s tail; or

(ii) Ten (10) feet;

(7) In an unsafe condition; or

(8) In a manner that causes or may cause injury to the dog.

(d) A person restraining a dog with a chain or tether, whether the chain or tether is held by the person or attached to an inanimate object during a period of temporary restraint, 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 the dog’s neck. A person may not restrain a dog with a chain or tether that weighs more than 1/18 of the animal’s body weight. A chain or tether used to restrain a dog must, by design and placement, be unlikely to become entangled.

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.

Corsicana, Texas
October 26, 2015

This ordinance bans unattended direct-point chaining. It allows the use of trolley systems.

CHAPTER 2: ANIMAL CONTROL

ARTICLE 2.1900 RESTRAINT AND CONFINEMENT

Tying, staking or tethering an animal. Animals may not be tethered to a stationary object as a means of confinement.

Any animal permitted to be kept within the City of Corsicana 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 up to a three (3) day grace period without penalty to correct a violation of this provision. Violators holding a valid fence permit shall be given up to thirty (30) days to complete construction of a fence. Exception from penalty shall not be given in any case where the violation of the provision causes or contributes to the bodily injury of a person or animal. An animal tethered, not having food, not having water, or no [sic] having shelter shall be considered separate offenses under this provision and each violation shall carry a separate penalty.

Any exceptions due to emergency acts of God must be approved in writing by the Animal Control Officer.

A person commits an offense if he uses a chain, rope, tether, leash, cable, or other device to attach an animal to a stationary object or trolley system. This section does not prohibit a person from walking an animal on a handheld leash
It is a defense to prosecution under this section that:
The animal is being tethered during a lawful animal event, veterinary treatment, grooming, training, or law enforcement activity; or
The animal tethering is required to protect the safety or welfare of a person or the animal and the animal’s owner maintains direct supervision of the animal.

Dallas, Texas

February 1, 2018

No dog may be tethered unless in his or her owner’s immediate possession and accompanied by the owner.

SEC. 7-4.7. TETHERED DOGS.

An owner of a dog may only tether a dog if the dog is in the owner’s immediate possession and accompanied by the owner, as required by Section 7-3.1 of this chapter. In addition, the owner of a tethered dog shall:

(1) not allow the dog to be tethered in any manner or by any method that allows the dog to become entangled or injured;

(2) use a properly fitted harness or collar that is specifically designed for the dog; and

(3) attach the tethering device to the dog’s harness or collar and not directly to the dog’s neck.

Denton, Texas
November 2020

Unattended tethering of animals is prohibited. Animals may only be tethered if the person responsible for the animal remains with the animal while the animal is tethered.

Sec. 6-8. – Restraining animals and tethering animals.
(a) It shall be unlawful to stake or restrain any domestic animal outside on a leash, tether, chain or similar apparatus unless a person who is in control, custody, or caring for the animal remains with the animal throughout the period of restraint. This prohibition shall apply to public and private property.

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.

Galveston, Texas
April 14, 2011

Dogs may not be tethered to a stationary object.
Sec. 7-18.1. Prohibition against the chaining or tethering of dogs and mandating that dog enclosures must provide one hundred fifty (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 any stationary 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 dog owner’s property, or on the property of the dog owner’s landlord, or on any property within the limits of the city.
(c) Any dog confined within a fenced yard must have an adequate space for exercise based on a dimension of at least one hundred fifty (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 person having custody of such dogs, shall provide an enclosure for such dogs meeting the one hundred fifty (150) square foot 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 material 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 (10) feet long), that allows the dog to move unheeded.

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.

Greenville, Texas
November 25, 2008

No dog may be kept tethered.

Sec. 4.03.007 Tethering prohibited

(a) It shall be unlawful for an owner or keeper of a dog to restrain the animal by means of a tether.

(b) A violation of this section shall not occur when:

(1) The animal is being restrained for veterinarian treatment, grooming, training or law enforcement activity.

(2) The owner or keeper is in the physical presence of the animal.

(3) The owner or keeper is walking the dog with a handheld leash.

(c) Nothing in this section authorizes a dog’s owner or keeper to allow a dog to run at large or to fail to provide an appropriate restraint or enclosure as required by this article.

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 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 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.

(1) During a lawful animal event, veterinary treatment, grooming, training, or law enforcement activity; 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 one-tenth 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.

(e) Violation. A person commits an offense that violates this section.

(1) Offense. An offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor. If a person fails to comply with this section with respect to more than one (1) dog, the person’s conduct with respect to each dog constitutes a separate offense.

(2) Penalty. The penalty for violation of this section shall be under section 6-54 of the Code of Civil and Criminal Ordinances of the City of Irving, Texas, and shall be between one dollar ($1.00) and two thousand dollars ($2,000.00) for each offense, for each violation, for each separate day, for each dog.

(f) Hand-held leashes. This section does not prohibit a person from walking a dog with a hand-held leash.

(g) 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 6-2 of this chapter.

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.

Mesquite, Texas

April 2, 2018

Tethering of dogs is prohibited unless the owner is physically present within the outdoor area where the dog is tethered and the dog is in view of the owner at all times.

Sec. 4-57. Unlawful restraint of dogs.

(a) Tethering of dogs is prohibited.

(b) It is a defense to prosecution that:

(1) The owner is physically present within the outdoor area where the dog is tethered;

(2) The dog is in view of the owner at all times; and

(3) None of the following prohibited conditions exist:

a. The tether shall not:

1. Be less than five times the length of the dog, as measured from the tip of the dog’s nose to the base of the dog’s tail;

2. Be less than 10 feet;

3. Be greater than 10 percent of the dog’s weight;

4. Be attached by means of a pinch-type, prong-type or choker-type collar or by a collar that is unsafe or not properly fitted;

5. Inhibits the dog’s free movement or causes injury or entanglement;

6. Be used on a dog under six months of age;

7. Be used if the dog does not have access to shade, dry shelter and a tip-proof water supply; or

8. Be used if the length of the tether allows the dog to touch the fence or cross the property line or cross onto a public easement.

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.

Monahans, Texas
November 9, 2004

No dog may be kept tethered.

Sec. 4-16. – Running at large—Maintenance.
All dogs within the city shall be cared for in accordance with the following:
. . .
(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.

Mount Pleasant, Texas
June 21, 2016

This ordinance prohibits tethering except during some events or for one hour during unforeseen circumstances.

CHAPTER 97: ANIMALS
§ 97.15 UNLAWFUL RESTRAINT OF AN ANIMAL.
(B) 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.
(C) 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;
(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;
(3) The dog tethering is due to force majeure and the dog is tethered for less than one hour within a 24 hour 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.
(D) Outdoor kennels used to house and contain an animal must be at a minimum no less than 50 square feet per animal providing for adequate movement of each animal. Nursing animals under three months of age may be kenneled together.

Nassau Bay, Texas
February 8, 2010

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

Dogs may not be tethered to a stationary object, but this does not prohibit the use of overhead run lines.

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)

Wichita Falls, Texas
March 19, 2013

Cats may not be tethered outside. Dogs may not be tethered unless a person is holding the tether or the dog’s owner or handler is outside and within 50 feet of the dog during the time that the animal is tethered.

Sec. 14-381. – Food, water, shelter and shade.
(2) Chaining and Tethering Animals:
(a) It shall be unlawful to keep an animal or livestock on a chain or rope placed in a manner that makes it possible to become entangled with the restraints of other animals or livestock or with any other objects.
(b) It shall be unlawful to keep any animal or livestock on a chain or rope that is of insufficient length to allow the animal or livestock complete access to shelter at all times, except while the owner or handler is outside, within 50 feet of the animal or is holding the chain or rope.
(c) It shall be unlawful to attach a chain to an animal or livestock in a manner so as to cause injury or discomfort to the animal or livestock.
(d) It shall be unlawful to stake a cat outside on a leash, rope, chain or similar apparatus.
(e) It shall be unlawful to restrain a dog outside with a chain or tether unless:
(1) a person is holding the chain or tether, or
(2) the dog’s owner or handler remains outside, within 50 feet of the dog, throughout the period of restraint.
2. Violations of this ordinance shall be punishable by a penalty of up to $500 per violation and as provided by Section 1-14 of the Wichita Falls Code of Ordinances.
3. The sections of this ordinance that specify they amend or add to the Code of
Ordinances of the City of Wichita Falls are intended to be parts of said Code, and said sections of this ordinance may be renumbered or relettered to accomplish such intention.
4. This ordinance shall be effective 180 days after final passage and approval by City Council and shall become effective only if the City Manager or his/her designee has filed a certification with the City Clerk certifying that a program has been established by a third party to provide for the installation of enclosures for animals at reduced cost to at least 3 low income residents per month in the City.

Cape Charles, Virginia
March 16, 2017

No unattended tethering is permitted.

§ 50-190. Tethering of animals.

It shall be unlawful to tether any unattended animal whether or not the animal has been provided adequate space. A violation of this section shall be punishable as a class 4 misdemeanor.

Hampton, Virginia
January 8, 2014

No companion animal may be tethered unless at a facility, entity, or activity inspected by and in good standing with the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Sec. 5-80. – Tethering prohibited, exceptions.
It shall be unlawful to tether any companion animal whether or not the animal has been provided adequate space.
Any facility, entity or activity licensed and/or inspected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture shall be exempt from the provisions of this section provided they are in good standing with the federal agency responsible for licensing or assurance of the facility or activity.
A violation of this section shall be punishable as a Class 4 misdemeanor.

Newport News, Virginia
June 23, 2020

Dogs may not be tethered unattended.

Sec. 6-78. Unattended tethering of dogs prohibited; exceptions.

It shall be unlawful to tether any unattended dog. For the purposes of this section, a dog is attended only if the owner or custodian is both outdoors and within sight of the dog.
When a dog is tethered, it must have adequate space as defined in Section 6-1.1.
Any owner, whose dog has a valid license pursuant to Section 6-33 as of February 1, 2015, shall be exempt from the provisions of this section as it relates to each dog owned and licensed prior to February 1, 2015. The exemption provided by this subsection shall be forever forfeit for any dog whose license is not renewed by February 1 of any subsequent year.
Violations of this section shall constitute a Class 3 misdemeanor.

That this ordinance shall be in effect on and after the date of its adoption, June 23, 2020.

Norfolk, Virginia
December 8, 2015

This ordinance fully bans unattended tethering.

Section 6.1-77

[…]

(d) It shall be unlawful for any animal to be tethered unless the owner or custodian is outside with the animal and the animal is in sight view.

Portsmouth, Virginia

August 22, 2017

Dogs may not be tethered unattended.

Sec. 4-9. – Standards for keeping animals and household pets; harboring stray animals.

(e) When an animal is tethered, “adequate space” means a tether that permits the above actions and is appropriate to the age and size of the animal. The tether must be attached to the animal by a properly applied collar, halter, or harness configured so as to protect the animal from injury and prevent the animal or the tether from becoming entangled with other objects or animals, or from extending over an object or edge that could result in the strangulation or injury of the animal. For dogs, the tether must be at least three times the length of the dog, as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail, except when the dog is being walked on a leash or is attached by a tether to a lead line. When freedom of movement would endanger the animal, temporarily and appropriately restricting movement of the animal according to professionally accepted standards is considered to be provision of adequate space.

(f) It shall be unlawful to tether a dog or to leave a dog tethered unless the dog is attended at all times. For purposes of this section, a dog is attended only if the owner is both outdoors with the dog and within 35 feet of the dog.

Suffolk, Virginia
June 5, 2013

Dogs may not be tethered while unattended.

Sec. 10-42 Unattended tethering of dogs prohibited
It shall be unlawful to tether any unattended dog whether or not the dog has been provided adequate space. A violation of this section shall be punishable as a class 4 misdemeanor.

This ordinance shall be effective September 1, 2013.

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

Dogs may only be tethered only under certain circumstances and only if specific requirements are met.

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;

Chaining Is Prohibited in the Following Communities

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