Downey Dog Leash Laws Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Downey Municipal Code Chapter 4, Article IV requires that all dogs be kept on a leash not exceeding 6 feet in length and under the physical control of a responsible person capable of restraining the animal when on any public street, sidewalk, park, or other public area. Dogs may not run at large within the city limits.

All dogs over 4 months of age must be licensed with the City and vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian. License fees are reduced for spayed or neutered dogs. Dog owners are responsible for immediately cleaning up and disposing of pet waste deposited on any public property or the property of another person. Dogs that bite, attack, or exhibit aggressive behavior may be declared potentially dangerous or vicious, subjecting the owner to additional requirements including muzzling, secure enclosure, and liability insurance. SEAACA provides animal control services for Downey, handling stray animal pickup, licensing, and enforcement. Dogs found running at large may be impounded at SEAACA, and owners must pay impound and boarding fees to reclaim their animal.