Tuolumne County, CA Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Tuolumne County's Animal Control Ordinance (Chapter 6.04 of the County Ordinance Code, adopted by Ord. 3311 in 2017) governs dogs in all unincorporated territory of the county. Under the 'Control of dogs' section, 'Every owner of a dog shall keep it exclusively upon his/her own premises; provided, however, that such dog may be off such premises if it is under the control of a person capable and actually restraining the animal by a leash.' The code defines a 'leash' as any substantial rope, leather strap, chain, or similar material not exceeding six (6) feet in length, held in the hand of a person actually controlling the dog. A dog is considered 'at large' when it is off the owner's premises and not under restraint by leash and physical control. Limited exceptions apply for lawful hunting, livestock herding on public lands, peace-officer dogs, organized field trials, and tracking/obedience/show work under the handler's direct control, provided the dog is no hazard, does not trespass, and causes no nuisance. Hotel, motel, RV-park, and campground operators are deemed to control dogs on their premises. A dog that runs at large and injures a person or damages property can elevate the violation to a misdemeanor. Tuolumne County Animal Control (under the Agricultural Commissioner) enforces these rules and may impound dogs running at large.