Memphis, TN Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Section 8-3-6(A) requires owners and custodians to keep dogs on a leash or other suitable restraint, or confined by a fence, at all times to stop the animal running at-large, biting, harassing people, or interfering with property. Subsection B requires any dog walked on a sidewalk or private property to stay on a leash under the walker's physical control, defined as the ability to restrain the dog's movement, with the leash in good condition, strong enough to resist breaking, and resistant to chewing. Subsection C sets detailed restraint standards: traditional fencing must be well-maintained, latched or locked, and at least two-and-a-half times the dog's shoulder height; invisible fencing must be manufacturer-installed, paired with training, and marked by two 6-by-8-inch warning signs naming the installer or maintenance company; and tethering is allowed only if the tether isn't unreasonably heavy for the dog's weight, has swivels at both ends, uses a proper collar or harness (no choke or pinch collars), is at least ten feet long, and the dog has continuous access to food, water, and dry shelter, is at least three months old with a current, visibly displayed rabies tag, and isn't sick or injured, dogs kept on tie-outs or overhead cable runs must also be spayed or neutered regardless of any other exemption.

Subsection D exempts working police, service, therapy, and search-and-rescue dogs while on duty or in training, and dogs in designated off-leash areas or organized competitions.