Cape Coral, FL Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Cape Coral falls under Lee County Domestic Animal Services for primary leash enforcement. The Lee County Animal Control Ordinance defines 'direct control' as immediate and continuous physical control of an animal at all times by means of a fence, leash not to exceed eight feet in length, cord, or chain of sufficient strength to restrain the animal. Dogs may not run at large on streets, sidewalks, school grounds, beaches, parks, or the private property of others. Limited exceptions apply for police and service dogs, certified hunting dogs actively engaged in hunting, herding dogs working livestock, and dogs in registered field trials or obedience training. Cape Coral's Code of Ordinances Chapter 4 (Animals and Fowl) supplements county rules and addresses restraint, dangerous dogs, and licensing within city limits. Cape Coral Section 3.28 separately addresses dogs in outdoor dining areas of food service establishments, requiring leashes at all times. Florida Statute §828.27 establishes minimum standards for animal cruelty and care; F.S. §767 governs dangerous dogs. Enforcement in Cape Coral involves Lee County Animal Services and Cape Coral Police.