Fort Wayne, IN Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Citywide rule
- Leashed and controlled, or on owner's property
- Park leash length
- 6 feet maximum, § 97.60
- Fine range
- $50 to $2,500 per offense
- Off-leash exception
- Designated park dog exercise areas only
Summary
Fort Wayne dogs must be on a leash under control or confined on the owner's property citywide, and on a leash 6 feet or shorter in city parks.
RESTRAINT. An animal is properly restrained when: (1) Secured by a leash or lead and under the physical control of the animal's owner or attending party; or (2) Confined within the exterior boundaries of the owner's or harborer's real property... No person owning...a dog, shall permit such dog to be in any public park unless such dog is upon a secure leash not more than six feet long held continuously in the hands of a responsible person capable of controlling the dog.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-60: Supplement contains: Local legislation current through Ord. G-19-26, passed 7-14-26, and Res. 83-19, passed 12-17-19 State legislation current through Legislative Service, 2025 Acts, Pamphlet No. 3).
Full Breakdown
City of Fort Wayne Code § 91.020 requires every animal to be "properly restrained," which the Code defines as secured by a leash and under the owner's physical control, or confined within the boundaries of the owner's own property. A dog that is loose and not restrained qualifies as a public nuisance animal under § 91.001. In city parks, § 97.60 tightens the rule further: a dog must be on a secure leash no more than six feet long, held continuously by a person capable of controlling it, or secured inside a vehicle, unless it is in a designated off-leash dog exercise area approved by the Board of Park Commissioners.
Violations & Fines
Fines of $50 to $2,500 per offense under § 91.999, with each day of violation counted as a separate offense; the Department can also impound an unrestrained dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my dog be off-leash in my own yard in Fort Wayne?
How long can a leash be in a Fort Wayne park?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fort Wayne
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