Howard County, Maryland

Sec. 17.305B. – Tethers for dogs.

(a) This section applies to dogs that are kept outside when:

(1) The owner is absent; or

(2) The dog is unattended for 30 minutes or longer.

(b) Tethers. For purposes of this section, a tether means a chain, rope, line, or similar restraint that connects a dog to a shelter, tree, fence, or any other stationary object.

(c) Generally prohibited. Except as otherwise provided in subsection (d) of this section, an owner may not keep a dog on a tether.

(d) Exceptions.

(1) An owner may keep a dog on a tether while the owner completes a temporary task.

(2) An owner may use a tether while supervising the dog and:

(i) The owner intends to allow the dog to eliminate; or

(ii) The owner is exercising the dog.