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Jefferson Parish, LA Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Max leash length
6 feet
Restraint required
Chain or leash, competent handler
Governing section
Code § 7-21
Enforced by
JPAWS
Applies to
Unincorporated parish incl. Metairie

Summary

In Jefferson Parish, no dog may be on any street, alleyway, highway, common, or public square unless under the immediate control of a competent person and restrained by a substantial chain or leash no longer than six (6) feet. Owners must otherwise keep dogs confined or humanely secured.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Jefferson Parish. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

No dog shall be permitted to run or be upon any street, alleyway, highway, common or public square unless under the immediate control of a competent person and restrained by a substantial chain or leash not exceeding six (6) feet in length.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 20 Update 2).

Full Breakdown

Section 7-21 of the parish Code of Ordinances (Chapter 7, Animals and Fowl) governs dogs at large. It is the duty of a dog's owner or keeper to have the dog confined or humanely secured. Off the premises, a dog on public streets or squares must be on a substantial chain or leash not exceeding six feet, held by a competent person. Dogs are also barred from being at large in multiple-occupancy yards without management permission, and must be leashed on school grounds and in public recreation areas. Exceptions cover law-enforcement K-9s, legal hunting, and parish-approved AKC-style events or designated dog parks. Enforcement is by Jefferson Protection and Animal Welfare Services (JPAWS).

Violations & Fines

Dogs found at large may be impounded by JPAWS. Owners are liable for impoundment and boarding fees, and violations are punished under Section 1-10 of the parish Code.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can my dog's leash be in public?
No more than six (6) feet. Section 7-21 requires a dog on public streets or squares to be restrained by a substantial chain or leash not exceeding six feet, held by a competent person.
Are there any exceptions to the leash rule?
Yes. It does not apply to law-enforcement K-9s, dogs legally hunting, dogs in parish-approved AKC-style demonstrations or competitions, or dogs in a designated dog park.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Jefferson Parish

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingLight RestrictionsParking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsChickens & LivestockSome RestrictionsPet LimitsSome RestrictionsWildlife FeedingSome RestrictionsExotic PetsSome RestrictionsPet Groomer RulesSome RestrictionsVeterinary Clinic ZoningSome RestrictionsMandatory Spay/NeuterSome RestrictionsCat RulesSome RestrictionsBird ProtectionHeavy RestrictionsBreed RestrictionsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage TreesSignificant RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: CompostingFew Restrictions

All Jefferson Parish rules

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