Arapahoe County, CO Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Authority
- Resolution No. 25-140
- Control Required
- Physical or voice control
- Owner Presence
- Required off property
- Tied Dogs
- At large in common areas
- Rabies
- Vaccination required at 4 mo.
Summary
Unincorporated Arapahoe County requires dogs to be under physical or voice control at all times per Animal Services Resolution No. 25-140. Dogs not under control are considered 'at large.' The Sheriff's Animal Services division enforces animal regulations.
governments, governmental subdivisions or governmental agencies. K. "Pet Animal" means an animal as defined in 30-15-101(3), C.R.S., as amended. L. "Physical Control" means a dog is on a leash, rope or other means of physical restraint by a person physically capable of handling such dog so that freedom of the dog's movement is restricted. M. “Voice Control” means a dog is immediately and reliably obedient to any voice or sound command given by an owner or keeper who is able to prevent the dog from charging, chasing, or otherwise disturbing or interfering with any person, pet animal, livestock, or wildlife, regardless of the distance involved or the presence of any distraction or provocation. Section 2: Rabies Vaccination Required A.
Full Breakdown
Under Resolution No. 25-140, dogs in unincorporated Arapahoe County must be under physical control (leash, rope, or restraint) or voice control (immediately responsive to commands) at all times when off their owner's property. A dog is considered 'at large' when not under physical or voice control on public property, on private property without the owner's permission, or in violation of county open space or trail signage requirements. Dogs tied in common areas are also considered at large. The owner must be present at all times when a dog is not in its own yard. Animal Services Officers under the Sheriff's Office enforce these regulations in unincorporated Arapahoe County, Deer Trail, and Foxfield.
Violations & Fines
Penalties assessed per the resolution's schedule. Each incident is a separate offense. Injuries caused by at-large dogs may be classified as Class 2 misdemeanors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to keep my dog on a leash in Arapahoe County?
What is the maximum leash length in Arapahoe County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Arapahoe County
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