Eagan, MN Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Eagan regulates loose animals under City Code Chapter 10. Section 10.11, Subd. 2 states it is unlawful for the owner of any dog, cat, ferret, or horse to permit such animal to run at large. The City describes this as an "equal opportunity" ordinance because it covers dogs, cats, ferrets, and even horses. A 2021 amendment to the animal rules requires dogs to be leashed whenever they are off the owner's property; the City does not require dogs, cats, and ferrets to be confined by a leash or fence while on the owner's own property. Inside city parks and recreation areas, all pets must be on a leash, and that leash may not exceed six feet in length. The Police Department's animal control officer enforces these provisions and investigates loose-animal complaints. The City reports that loose animals account for a large share of dog bites and aggression incidents, which is part of the rationale for the at-large rule. Eagan also operates an Off-Leash Dog Area at Thresher Fields Park (3200 Borchert Lane) where dogs may be off leash inside the fenced area, but must be leashed before entering and when leaving.