Anchorage, AK Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

It is unlawful for any animal to be in a public place unless it is controlled by a leash, and in the control of a person competent to restrain the animal except:

1. Control of an animal by command is allowed if the animal is engaged in an activity that precludes it from accomplishing that activity if restrained, and the animal is in an area normally associated with that activity, and the activity is conducted in a manner that minimizes impact with the general public;

2. A dog may be unconfined in areas sanctioned by the municipality as off leash dog areas. The owner or custodian of a dog, unconfined in an off leash dog area, must have a leash restraint immediately available for the physical control of the dog and be physically capable of controlling the dog;

3. An animal, at shows and events, may be unconfined during the time of the demonstration in a manner which does not pose a threat to public health and safety or the safety of other animals;

4. An animal may be humanely attached in or to a vehicle in a public place, provided the animal may not:

a. Be capable of removing or detaching itself from the vehicle;

b. Be attached so as to fall, jump, be thrown from or dragged by the vehicle;

c. Be exposed to prolonged inclement weather; or

d. Pose a threat to public health and safety or the safety of other animals.

5. An animal may be humanely contained inside an attended or locked, fully enclosed container. (AO No. 2001-158(S-4), § 1, 1-1-2003)