Des Moines requires dogs to be on a leash or under direct control at all times when off the owner's property under Chapter 18. Dogs running at large are a violation and may be impounded by Animal Control.
Des Moines Municipal Code Chapter 18 requires all dogs to be restrained by a leash or kept under the direct control of the owner when off the owner's property. Dogs running at large — not on a leash and not on the owner's property — may be picked up by Des Moines Animal Control and impounded at the Animal Care and Control facility. All dogs over 4 months old must be licensed and have current rabies vaccination. The city operates the Des Moines Animal Care and Control center. Dogs must not create a nuisance by trespassing on other property, chasing vehicles, or threatening people. Designated off-leash dog parks provide areas where dogs may exercise freely.
Animal at large: simple misdemeanor with fines. Impound fees apply for pickup. Unlicensed dogs face additional fines.
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See how Des Moines's dog leash laws rules stack up against other locations.
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