Davenport, IA Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Leash Limit
- 6 feet maximum
- Off-Leash
- Designated dog areas only
- License
- Required for dogs and cats
- Rabies
- Required (Iowa Code 351.33)
- Code Section
- DMC 6.04.060
Summary
Davenport requires a dog off the owner's property to be on a leash no longer than six feet under the control of a competent handler. Dogs and cats must be licensed and rabies-vaccinated, and animals running at large may be impounded.
When the animal is being walked off the premises of its owner or custodian so long as the animal is on a leash not more than six feet in length and under the control of a person competent to restrain and control the animal.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4820400; v43 updated 2026-03-11; through 03-11-2026).
Full Breakdown
Municipal Code Section 6.04.060 makes it unlawful to let a dog, cat, or other animal run at large; an animal walked off its owner's property must be on a leash not more than six feet long and under the control of a competent person. On the owner's property the animal must be restrained so it cannot reach public areas or a neighbor's land. Section 6.04.020 requires every dog and cat to be licensed within 30 days of rabies vaccination, and Section 6.04.040 requires rabies shots per Iowa Code Section 351.33. Animals at large may be impounded; redemption fees are set by City Council resolution.
Violations & Fines
Letting an animal run at large or walking a dog on a leash over six feet violates Section 6.04.060 and can lead to impoundment plus redemption, licensing, and rabies fees. Unlicensed dogs and cats violate Section 6.04.020.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Davenport require dogs on a leash?
Do I need to license my dog or cat?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Davenport
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