All dogs and cats must be kept under restraint in unincorporated Harris County. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet when off the owner's property. Annual licensing is required for all dogs over 3 months ($20-$60). Unlawful tethering is prohibited 10 PM-6 AM.
Harris County animal regulations require all dogs and cats to remain under restraint in unincorporated areas. Restraint means: (1) held on a leash no longer than 6 feet by a capable person; (2) within a fully enclosed vehicle; or (3) on the owner's premises without access to sidewalks or streets. All dogs over 3 months must be licensed annually by Harris County Public Health Veterinary Public Health (VPH). License fees range from $20 (spayed/neutered, 1-year) to $60 (intact, 1-year), with senior discounts ($2 for spayed/neutered dogs for owners 60+). Rabies vaccination is mandatory. Unlawful tethering rules prohibit chaining dogs to stationary objects between 10 PM and 6 AM, within 500 feet of schools, or during extreme weather (below 32°F, above 85°F, or during severe weather events). Tether chains must be at least 5 times the dog's length or 10 feet minimum.
Leash/restraint violation: Class C misdemeanor. First impound fee: $10-$40 plus $10/day boarding. Second impound: $80 + boarding. Third+: $120 + boarding. Unlawful tethering: Class C misdemeanor, escalating to Class B for repeat offenses.
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See how Harris County's dog leash laws rules stack up against other locations.
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