Monterey County Code § 8.20.010 prohibits dogs from running at large anywhere in the unincorporated county at any time. Off the owner's premises, dogs must be on a leash no more than 6 feet long held by a capable handler, or otherwise confined. All dogs over 4 months must be licensed (MCC 8.08.030) and rabies-vaccinated (MCC 8.08.010).
Monterey County Code Title 8 (Animal Control) is enforced by Monterey County Animal Services. Section 8.20.010 (Running at Large) makes it unlawful for any dog to be at large within unincorporated Monterey County, defined as off the premises of the person owning or controlling the animal. When off-premises a dog must be restrained by a chain, strap, or cord no more than six feet in length attached to its collar or harness and physically held by a person capable of restraint, made fast to a stationary object, or confined in a cage or dog-tight enclosure (including an electric/electronic fence). Section 8.08.030 requires a Monterey County dog license for any dog 4 months or older, and § 8.08.010 requires rabies vaccination for dogs and cats over 4 months. Cities such as Salinas (which contracts with the County), Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Pacific Grove, and Seaside have their own parallel leash and licensing rules. Cal. Food & Ag Code §30951 also requires effective dog restraint statewide.
Violations of Title 8 are infractions or misdemeanors with impound, boarding, license, and vaccination fees due to reclaim a dog. Cal. Food & Ag §31601 et seq. authorizes potentially-dangerous and vicious dog hearings and confinement orders for biting dogs. Field Services: (831) 769-8850.
See how Monterey County's dog leash laws rules stack up against other locations.
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