Marion County, OR Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- At large means
- Off-premises, not controlled
- County code
- MCC 6.05.050
- State law
- ORS 609.060, Class B violation
- Enforcement
- Marion County Dog Services
- Applies to
- Unincorporated county + cities
Summary
Marion County prohibits dogs from running at large. A dog off the keeper's property and not under immediate control, restraint or command is 'at large.' It is a civil infraction under Marion County Code 6.05.050 and a Class B violation under state law ORS 609.060.
After 60 days from the date of the notice, every person keeping a dog shall prevent the dog from running at large in any county or city where prohibited. A person who is the keeper of a dog commits a Class B violation if the dog runs at large where prohibited.
Full Breakdown
Marion County Dog Services enforces the countywide at-large prohibition. 'Dog running at large' means a dog off or outside the keeper's premises and not under the immediate control, restraint or command of a keeper. There is no leash-length rule, but the dog must stay controlled. Cities such as Salem, Keizer and Woodburn have their own leash ordinances that apply inside city limits. The county code (Ch. 6.05) also treats chasing vehicles, trespassing, and a female in heat at large as separate civil infractions. Impounded dogs are handled by Marion County Dog Services.
Violations & Fines
Running at large is a civil infraction under MCC 6.05.050; under ORS 609.060 it is a Class B violation. Impound and reclaim fees apply to loose dogs picked up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a leash legally required in Marion County?
What if my city has a leash law?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Marion County
Compare Marion County to another location·View the Oregon animal ordinances overview
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