Auburn, WA Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- ACC 6.02.040
- Maximum leash/chain length
- 8 feet
- 1st offense fine
- $50.00
- 4th+ offense fine
- $250.00
- Off-leash exceptions
- Designated areas, special events, private owner OK
Summary
Any dog off its owner's property in Auburn must be on a leash or chain no longer than eight feet, controlled by the owner or another competent, authorized person, under ACC 6.02.040. Violations run $50 to $250 on a graduated, rolling 12-month schedule.
A. If any dog is off the premises of its owner or custodian, such dog, while away from such premises, must be controlled by a leash or chain not more than eight feet in length, such control to be exercised by such owner or custodian or other competent and authorized person. Failure to control a dog in this manner is a violation. B. A person who violates this section shall be punished as set forth in ACC 6.01.210.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 7023, passed July 6, 2026).
Full Breakdown
040(A) sets Auburn's leash requirement: once a dog leaves its owner's or custodian's premises, it must be controlled by a leash or chain no more than eight feet long, with control exercised by the owner, custodian, or another competent and authorized person; failing to control the dog this way is a violation. 010. 010(B): the leash rule does not apply in areas the city designates as off-leash, when off-leash activity is authorized under a special events permit, or when a public property owner has authorized off-leash activity on their own property. 030.
Violations & Fines
ACC 6.01.210(B) prices an off-leash dog on a graduated Class 1 infraction schedule measured on a rolling 12-month basis: $50.00 for a first offense, $100.00 for a second, $200.00 for a third, and $250.00 for a fourth or later offense. A dog seized for being off leash may also be impounded, requiring the owner to pay redemption and boarding fees under ACC 6.01.070 within 72 hours or risk the animal becoming shelter property.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a dog's leash be in Auburn?
What is the fine for walking a dog off leash in Auburn?
Are there places in Auburn where a dog can be off leash?
Can an off-leash dog be impounded in Auburn?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Auburn
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Dog Leash Laws in Nearby Cities
How other cities in King County handle dog leash laws.