Jefferson County, CO Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Applies to
- Unincorporated Jefferson County
- Max leash length
- 10 feet
- Dog at large
- Off-premises, uncontrolled, out of sight
- Dog-at-large fine
- $100 min, $300 max
- Governing resolution
- CC24-042
Summary
In unincorporated Jefferson County a dog off its owner's property must be leashed (10-foot max) and under control. A "dog at large" is off-premises, uncontrolled, and out of the owner's sight. Dog at large is a petty offense.
"Control" means physical control of a dog by means of a leash, cord or chain no longer than ten (10) feet in length. "Dog at Large" means a dog that is off the premises of the dog owner, not under control and the owner is not observed to be within sight of his/her dog.
Full Breakdown
The Jefferson County Animal Control Regulation (Resolution CC24-042) defines "Control" as physical control by a leash, cord, or chain no longer than ten feet. A "Dog at Large" is a dog off the owner's premises, not under control, with the owner not observed within sight. Off-leash is only allowed in areas the county has designated by exemption. Encroaching over fences or property lines also counts as at-large. Dog-at-large and dog-off-leash are separate petty offenses with escalating mandatory fines. This county code governs only unincorporated Jeffco; incorporated cities (Lakewood, Arvada, Golden, Wheat Ridge) set their own leash rules.
Violations & Fines
Dog at large: $100 minimum fine, rising $50 each offense to $300 max. Dog off leash: $50 minimum. At-large/off-leash dog that bites causing bodily injury is a Class II misdemeanor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can my dog be off leash in unincorporated Jeffco?
What is the difference between off-leash and at-large?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Jefferson County
Compare Jefferson County to another location·View the Colorado animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.