Mesa, AZ Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Section 6-4-7, "Dogs Not Permitted at Large; Wearing Licenses," sets Mesa's core leash requirement. Subsection (D) defines when a dog is not considered at large: if the dog is restrained by a leash, chain, rope, or cord of not more than six feet (6') in length and of sufficient strength to control the dog, or is confined entirely to the owner's property by an adequate fence or other method. Narrow exceptions exist for dogs controlling livestock, dogs being trained for or used in hunting, dogs exhibited or trained at kennel club events, dogs engaged in Arizona Racing Commission-approved races, and dogs actively engaged in obedience training under a trainer who carries a six-foot leash and where the dog is enrolled in or has graduated an obedience program.

In a declared rabies quarantine area, Subsection (A) tightens the rule further: no dog may be at large at all, and every dog must be confined to the owner's property or kept on a leash not exceeding six feet and under the owner's direct control whenever off the property. Subsection (B) additionally requires any dog over four months running at large to wear a collar or harness bearing a valid license tag, with limited exemptions for working, show, and racing dogs. Under Subsection (C), if a dog is at large on public streets, parks, or property, the dog's owner or custodian is in violation regardless of who had physical control of the animal at the time.

The City's enforcement agent may enter private property in reasonable pursuit of a loose dog (short of entering a dwelling without invitation) and may impound any dog found at large under Subsection (E); in the enforcement agent's judgment, a dangerous or fierce animal that cannot be safely impounded may be slain.