Garden Grove Dog Leash Laws Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

The City of Garden Grove requires that all dogs be restrained on a leash whenever they are on any public street, sidewalk, park, trail, or other public area under Title 6 (Animals) of the Municipal Code. Dogs may not be allowed to run at large within the city at any time. These leash requirements apply to dogs of all breeds and sizes. The regulations are enforced by OC Animal Care (Orange County Animal Care), which provides animal control, sheltering, and licensing services for Garden Grove under a service agreement.

All dogs over four months of age must be licensed with OC Animal Care and must have a current rabies vaccination administered by a licensed veterinarian. Dog licenses can be obtained online through OC Animal Care's website at ocpetinfo.com, by mail, or in person at the OC Animal Care shelter in Tustin. License fees are significantly lower for spayed or neutered dogs. License tags must be worn on the dog's collar at all times when the dog is off the owner's property. Failure to license a dog can result in fines.

Garden Grove provides one designated off-leash dog park at Eastgate Park, located at 12001 St. Mark Street. The dog park features a fenced area where dogs may exercise off-leash under their owner's supervision. Dogs must be licensed, vaccinated, and under voice control at all times within the dog park. Aggressive dogs must be removed immediately. Outside the designated dog park area, the standard leash law applies in all Garden Grove parks and public spaces.

Dog owners in Garden Grove are strictly liable for any injuries caused by their dog biting another person under California Civil Code Section 3342, regardless of whether the dog has shown previous aggressive behavior. This strict liability applies whether the bite occurs on public or private property, as long as the victim was lawfully present. Dogs that bite or attack may be declared potentially dangerous or vicious under OC Animal Care regulations, which can require special enclosure, muzzling in public, and additional liability insurance.

Residents can report stray dogs, animal concerns, or leash law violations by contacting OC Animal Care at (714) 935-6848 or the Garden Grove Police Department non-emergency line at (714) 741-5704.