Fullerton, CA Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Fullerton Municipal Code Chapter 6.24 and Orange County animal control regulations require dogs to be leashed when in public areas. Dogs must be controlled by a substantial leash not exceeding 6 feet in length when walking on public streets, sidewalks, paths, and in city parks unless in a designated off-leash area. The leash must be held by a person capable of controlling the animal. Dogs must not be allowed to run at large. The city operates at least one off-leash dog park (Pooch Park at Laguna Lake Park) where dogs may exercise off-leash within the enclosed area. Dog owners must comply with posted rules at off-leash areas including cleaning up after their dogs, maintaining visual and voice control, and removing aggressive dogs immediately. Dogs must be licensed with OC Animal Care and display current rabies vaccination tags. Female dogs in heat must be confined. Dogs that bite or attack may be declared potentially dangerous or vicious under Orange County ordinances, resulting in additional restrictions. Dog owners are responsible for cleaning up pet waste in all public areas. Failure to clean up after a dog is a citable offense. Dogs are prohibited from entering certain areas such as playgrounds, sports fields, and public buildings unless they are service animals as defined by the ADA.