Denton, TX Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Code
- Section 6-8 (at large prohibited)
- Leash Length
- 6 ft maximum on public property
- Microchip
- Required for dogs 4+ months (Section 6-14)
- Off-Leash Parks
- South Lakes and North Lakes Dog Parks
- Animal Services
- (940) 349-7594
Summary
Denton Code Section 6-8 requires all dogs to be restrained by leash or confined when off the owner's property. Section 6-14, effective May 2024, replaced pet licensing with mandatory microchipping for all dogs over 4 months. Off-leash dogs permitted only in designated dog parks including South Lakes and North Lakes parks.
Sec. 822.041. DEFINITIONS. In this subchapter:(1) "Animal control authority" means a municipal or county animal control office with authority over the area where the dog is kept or a county sheriff in an area with no animal control office.(2) "Dangerous dog" means a dog that:(A) makes an unprovoked attack on a person that causes bodily injury and occurs in a place other than an enclosure in which the dog was being kept and that was reasonably certain to prevent the dog from leaving the enclosure on its own; or(B) commits unprovoked acts in a place other than an enclosure in which the dog was being kept and that was reasonably certain to prevent the dog from leaving the enclosure on its own and those acts cause a person to reasonably
Full Breakdown
Denton Code of Ordinances Section 6-8 prohibits any dog from running at large within city limits. Dogs must be restrained by a leash no longer than 6 feet when on public property, streets, sidewalks, or parks (except designated off-leash areas). Section 6-14, effective May 21, 2024 (Ord. 24-741), replaced the traditional pet registration system with mandatory microchipping for all dogs and cats over 4 months of age. Microchips must be registered with a national pet recovery database with current contact information. The city partners with Habitat for Humanity to provide free dog run enclosures for qualifying residents as part of the enhanced anti-tethering program. Denton Animal Services handles leash law enforcement and can be reached at (940) 349-7594. Repeated at-large violations may result in the animal being impounded and declared a nuisance under Section 6-9. Designated off-leash areas include South Lakes Dog Park and North Lakes Dog Park, where dogs must remain under voice control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I still need to license my dog in Denton?
Where can my dog go off-leash legally in Denton?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Denton
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Dog Leash Laws in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Denton County handle dog leash laws.