Osceola County, FL Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Section 4-31(d) of the Osceola County Code makes it a violation for an owner to allow a dog or cat to run at large on any public or private property without the consent of the property owner or resident. Whenever a dog or cat is off the owner's own premises, or off the premises of someone who has consented to its presence, the animal must remain under the direct control of a person competent to control it at all times, or be confined within a suitable enclosure sufficient to prevent escape. The section does not require a physical leash by name; direct control by a competent handler or a secure enclosure both satisfy the rule. Police dogs defined under F.S. § 843.19 are exempt from the direct-control requirement while working in an official law enforcement capacity.

Osceola County Animal Services investigates at-large complaints and can impound a loose dog or cat under Section 4-6, which authorizes the shelter to hold at-large animals along with those creating a nuisance or presenting a bite risk. Holding periods then run under Section 4-8: three working days for an unidentified animal, five working days for one with valid identification. An owner recovering an impounded animal must show proof of ownership, current rabies vaccination and county license for animals four months and older, and pay all impoundment, veterinary, and daily maintenance costs before the department will release the animal under Section 4-9(d).