Los Angeles County, CA Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Maximum leash length
- 6 feet
- Applies to
- Public property and common areas of private property
- Exception
- Private property with owner/lessor consent
- Enforcement agency
- LA County Department of Animal Care and Control
Summary
Dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet on all public property and common areas of private property in unincorporated LA County.
A dog must be restrained on a substantial leash not exceeding six feet in length by a person capable of controlling the dog, while on public property or common areas of private property. An owner or custodian of a dog may allow the dog to be unrestrained on private property with the owner's or lessor's consent.
Full Breakdown
Under Los Angeles County Code § 10.32.010, any dog on public property or in the common areas of private property must be restrained on a substantial leash not exceeding six feet in length, held by a person capable of controlling the dog. Dogs may be off-leash on private property with the property owner's or lessor's consent. Violations are enforced by the LA County Department of Animal Care and Control. Off-leash dog parks that have been designated by the County are an exception to the general leash requirement.
Violations & Fines
Allowing a dog to be unrestrained on public property or in common areas of private property; using a leash longer than six feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a dog's leash be in unincorporated LA County?
Can my dog be off-leash in my backyard?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles County
California rules heatmap·Compare Los Angeles County to another location·View the California animal ordinances overview
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