Mansfield, TX Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Mansfield's leash rule is codified in Chapter 14 (Animals) of the City Code. Any dog off the owner premises must be physically restrained by a leash of reasonable length held by a person capable of controlling the animal, or contained inside a secure vehicle or crate. Dogs are prohibited from running at large, which includes being loose on any street, sidewalk, park outside of a designated dog park, school yard, or any public or private property without the owner permission. Mansfield operates designated off-leash dog parks within its Parks and Recreation system, including sites with posted rules requiring current rabies vaccination, owner supervision, and removal of aggressive animals; leashes are required entering and leaving the fenced area. Animal Care and Control officers can impound dogs found running at large, with owner reclaim fees and impound costs applicable, plus a Class C citation up to 500 dollars. Leashed dogs are allowed on Mansfield trail and park systems including the Walnut Creek Linear Park, Elmer Oliver Nature Park, and Mansfield Corridor trails, but must be under direct control and owners must clean up waste. Dogs are generally not allowed inside the Mansfield Activities Center or city pool facilities; service animals are excepted under the ADA. Tethering of dogs outside is regulated separately and must comply with TX Health and Safety Code 821.076 (unattended restraint).