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High Point, NC Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Rule
Dogs must be leashed or enclosed
Penalty
$50 civil penalty per violation
Enforcement
Loose dogs impounded by police
Scope
Applies citywide, no exceptions

Summary

High Point Code § 12-2-1 makes it unlawful to let a dog run at large, defining 'at large' as any dog not enclosed, confined, or controlled on a leash, cord or chain.

It shall be unlawful for any person owning or controlling any animal or fowl, including dogs, to allow the same to run at large in the city...The phrase "at large" shall mean, in connection with this article, a dog that is not in an enclosure or otherwise confined, or is not under the control of the owner or other person by means of a leash, cord or chain.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 9 | Development Ordinance: Supplement 14).

Full Breakdown

§ 12-2-1 bars owners from allowing a dog to run at large anywhere in High Point, and defines "at large" as a dog that isn't in an enclosure, isn't otherwise confined, and isn't under the owner's control by leash, cord or chain. Police pick up loose animals and deliver them to the location the police director designates. Owners of non-dog animals or fowl must keep them penned or enclosed at all times.

Violations & Fines

A first violation of Chapter 12's animal provisions draws a $50 civil penalty under § 12-2-5, rising with delinquency and collectible as a civil debt; loose dogs may also be impounded.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does High Point require dogs to be leashed in public?
Yes, § 12-2-1 makes it unlawful to let a dog run at large; a dog off-leash and not confined or under an owner's control is 'at large' and in violation.
Who picks up a stray dog in High Point?
The police department is directed by § 12-2-1 to take up any dog found running at large and deliver it to the location the police director designates.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in High Point

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsChickens & LivestockSome RestrictionsVeterinary Clinic ZoningSome RestrictionsCat RulesSignificant RestrictionsBeekeepingSome RestrictionsExotic PetsHeavy RestrictionsBreed RestrictionsSignificant RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Barking DogsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSignificant Restrictions

All High Point rules

Compare High Point to another location·View the North Carolina animal ordinances overview

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