Birmingham, AL Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Section 6-1-14, in Article B (Dogs) of Title 6, Chapter 1, states the offense flatly: it is unlawful for the owner or any person having charge or control of a dog or cat to allow it to be or to run at large. The chapter's definitions in Section 6-1-1 fill in what that means: an animal is 'at large' unless it is under physical restraint by its owner or a competent person, or confined within a wall, fence, vehicle or other enclosure that effectively prevents escape, and 'under restraint' means controlled by a leash, cord or chain in the handler's hands, or humanely tethered on private premises in the owner's presence.

00 minimum fine and/or imprisonment as provided in Section 1-1-6 for a third or subsequent offense. Any officer authorized under Section 6-1-11, including police officers and animal control officers, may issue a citation in lieu of impounding the animal if the owner is known and the dog or cat otherwise complies with the article. If picked up loose, Section 6-1-18 authorizes impoundment at the animal control center for a minimum three-day hold before release, transfer or disposition.