Boulder County, CO Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Boulder County's animal control framework is established by Ordinance No. 2022-8, which repealed and replaced Ordinance 2019-01 and was adopted under CRS §30-15-401(1)(j) authorizing counties to regulate dogs. Unlike most Colorado jurisdictions, unincorporated Boulder County does not mandate physical leashing — dogs at large are lawful provided they remain under voice and sight command, meaning the handler must maintain visual contact and the dog must respond reliably to verbal commands. All dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies, and dogs must wear both a current rabies tag and identification tag at all times. Boulder County does not issue a county dog license, distinguishing it from the City of Boulder's Voice and Sight tag program. A combined household limit of seven dogs and cats applies on any unincorporated parcel. Boulder County Parks and Open Space trails carry trail-specific rules — many require leashing while others allow voice and sight, posted at trailheads. Eldorado Canyon State Park requires a hand-held leash of six feet or less. Animal Control is reached at 303-441-3626 or after hours via Boulder County Dispatch at 303-441-4444. Violations of Ordinance 2022-8 are county petty offenses with fines and potential impoundment.