Dublin, CA Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- DMC § 5.36.220
- Leash length
- Max 6 feet
- License age
- Required over 4 months old
- Exceptions
- Hunting, herding, designated dog runs
- Violation
- Misdemeanor under § 5.36.090
Summary
Dublin, California bars dogs from running at large anywhere in the city and requires a leash no longer than six feet whenever a dog is off its owner's property, unless the animal is working livestock or hunting under a competent handler.
No owner shall allow or permit any dog, whether licensed or unlicensed, to be or run at large in or upon any public place or premises, or in or upon any private place or premises other than those of said owner except with the consent of the person in charge of said private place or premises, unless such dog is securely restrained by a substantial leash not to exceed six (6) feet in length and is in charge and control of a person competent to keep such dog under effective charge and control.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 2-26, passed March 3, 2026).
Full Breakdown
" The section carves out narrow exceptions: a dog may run without a leash to hunt wild birds or game, or to herd, guard, or gather domestic animals or fowls, and in any area the Director designates as a dog run, provided the handler stays in effective control and the dog does not threaten or damage people or property in the process. Any dog riding in or on a vehicle counts as being on its owner's own premises for purposes of this section. 160.
Violations & Fines
Running a dog at large violates Section 5.36.220 and is punishable as a misdemeanor under Section 5.36.090. The Director may impound a loose dog under Section 5.36.370, and if the dog bites or attacks a peaceful person, the owner is separately guilty of a misdemeanor under Section 5.36.270, on top of any potentially-dangerous-dog fine under Section 5.36.365.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a dog's leash be in Dublin?
Are there any exceptions to the leash requirement?
Do I need to license my dog in Dublin?
What happens if my dog gets loose in Dublin?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dublin
California rules heatmap·Compare Dublin to another location·View the California animal ordinances overview
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Dog Leash Laws in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Alameda County handle dog leash laws.