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.
