Bonita Springs, FL Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

The operative rule is Sec. 8-13 of the Bonita Springs Code, in Chapter 8 (Animals). It reaches any person who owns or has possession, charge, custody or control of an animal, and it lists where roaming is banned: public streets, sidewalks, school grounds, the area of school vehicles, beaches, parks, and the private property of others without the owner's consent.

The leash requirement is built from the chapter's definitions. An animal roaming at large is one not under the restraint, confinement or direct control of the owner or agent. Direct control means immediate and continuous physical control at all times, such as a fence, a leash not to exceed six feet in length, a cord, or a chain of sufficient strength. The definition excludes herding dogs, dogs in the process of hunting, police dogs, dogs in a registered field trial or obedience training or trial, and a dog on its owner's property. Restraint covers a leash, fence, building, chain, cage, crate or other secure enclosure. A dog restrained only by a chain or tether needs one at least ten feet long, no heavier than one-eighth of the dog's weight, with swivels on both ends and a properly fitting collar or harness.

Owner is defined broadly: an animal is harbored if it is fed or sheltered for ten or more consecutive days, so a feeder can be held to the same duty. Under Sec. 8-13(b) any animal found in violation can be impounded. Under Sec. 8-13(c) a property owner or tenant can seize an unrestrained, unattended or at-large animal on his property and must surrender it to domestic animal services within 24 hours, capturing it in a safe and humane manner and using humane traps if needed. Sec. 8-9(a) separately makes the owner responsible for removing excreta the animal leaves on public walks, recreation areas or private property.