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Amarillo, TX Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Leash
Required when off owner's property
At Home
Must be confined on property
Rabies
Current vaccination required
Code Section
Chapter 8-2
Enforcement
Animal Management and Welfare

Summary

Amarillo requires all dogs to be restrained or confined when off the owner's property. Dogs at large are subject to impoundment by Amarillo Animal Management and Welfare. Owners must have current rabies vaccinations for their dogs.

Sec. 822.007. LOCAL REGULATION OF DOGS. This subchapter does not prohibit a municipality or county from adopting leash or registration requirements applicable to dogs. ... Sec. 822.031. UNREGISTERED DOGS PROHIBITED FROM RUNNING AT LARGE. The owner or person having control of a dog at least six months of age in a county adopting this subchapter may not allow the dog to run at large unless the dog: (1) is registered under this subchapter with the county in which the dog runs at large; and (2) has fastened about its neck a dog identification tag issued by the county.

Source: Amarillo Code Ch. 8-2 Animals and FowlView official code

Full Breakdown

Under Chapter 8-2 of the Amarillo code, dogs must be under the control of their owner at all times. Dogs off the owner's property must be on a leash or otherwise restrained. At home, dogs must be confined by a fence, enclosure, or tether that prevents them from leaving the property. Dogs found running at large may be impounded by Amarillo Animal Management and Welfare. All dogs must have current rabies vaccinations as required by Texas state law. Registration with the city may also be required.

Violations & Fines

Dogs at large may be impounded. Owners face fines and impoundment fees. Repeat violations carry escalating penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the leash law in Amarillo?
Dogs must be on a leash or otherwise restrained when off the owner's property. At home, dogs must be confined by a fence or enclosure that prevents them from running at large.
Can my dog be off-leash in my Amarillo front yard?
Only if the yard is fenced or the dog is tethered. An unfenced, unleashed dog in the front yard can be cited as at large, even on your own property.
What happens if my dog is picked up at large in Amarillo?
Amarillo Animal Management and Welfare will impound the dog. Owners must pay impound fees and show proof of rabies vaccination to reclaim the animal.

Sources & Official References

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All Amarillo rules

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