Las Vegas, NV Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Under LVMC 7.36.030 within Title 7 (Animals), dogs must be physically restrained by leash, cord, chain, or enclosure whenever off the owner's property, except inside designated fenced off-leash animal parks. The at-large definition aligns with Clark County Code 10.04 — an animal not restrained by leash, cord, chain, or enclosure on any public or private property without permission. Las Vegas Boulevard pedestrian malls (the Strip) impose a 3-foot leash maximum, and dogs are entirely prohibited on the Strip between noon and 5 AM under the Resort Corridor pedestrian flow ordinance, with exceptions only for service animals under the ADA. First-offense violations are misdemeanors carrying 2 days to 6 months jail (often served in 4-hour increments), 48 to 120 hours community service, and fines from $200 to $1,000. Second offenses within seven years escalate to 10 days to 6 months jail, 100 to 200 hours community service, and $500 to $1,000 fines. Las Vegas typically charges civil penalties for first-time minor violations rather than full criminal misdemeanors. Dogs over four months old must also be licensed and current on rabies vaccination under LVMC Chapter 7.08 (Dog and Cat License Permits). Aggressive off-leash dogs can trigger dangerous or vicious dog proceedings under NRS 202.500, which is a state-level gross misdemeanor or felony depending on injury. Animal cruelty and neglect statutes under NRS Chapter 574 also apply, including tethering limits. Enforcement is handled by Las Vegas Animal Protection Services and Las Vegas Metro Police; complaints can be filed at 702-229-6444.