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North Richland Hills, TX Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Leash length
Max 8 ft
Off-leash zone
NRH Dog Park at Northfield
First offense
~200 dollars fine
Authority
NRH Code Ch. 14
Contact
Animal Services (817) 427-6570

Summary

All dogs in North Richland Hills must be on a leash under direct physical control whenever off the owner's property. Off-leash is only allowed in NRH Dog Park at Northfield Park.

Sec. 822.042. REQUIREMENTS FOR OWNER OF DANGEROUS DOG. (a) Not later than the 30th day after a person learns that the person is the owner of a dangerous dog, the person shall:(1) register the dangerous dog with the animal control authority for the area in which the dog is kept;(2) restrain the dangerous dog at all times on a leash in the immediate control of a person or in a secure enclosure;(3) obtain liability insurance coverage or show financial responsibility in an amount of at least $100,000 to cover damages resulting from an attack by the dangerous dog causing bodily injury to a person and provide proof of the required liability insurance coverage or financial responsibility to the animal control authority for the area in which the dog is kept; and(4) comply with an

Source: North Richland Hills Code of OrdinancesView official code

Full Breakdown

North Richland Hills Code of Ordinances Chapter 14 requires every dog, cat, or other domestic animal to be restrained by a leash no longer than eight feet when off the owner's enclosed property. This covers all city streets, sidewalks, public parks including Green Valley Park and Linda Spurlock Park, open trails, and school grounds. The only off-leash area in the city is the fenced NRH Dog Park located within Northfield Park at 8000 Glenview Drive, which has separate small-dog and large-dog sections with posted rules. Invisible fences do not satisfy the leash requirement when the dog is off the owner's lot. Texas Health and Safety Code 822 provides additional authority to impound and destroy dogs that attack people off-leash. First offense fines start at around 200 dollars, climbing to 500 dollars for repeat violations. NRH Animal Services at (817) 427-6570 investigates reports of loose dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can my dog run off-leash in NRH?
The fenced NRH Dog Park at Northfield Park, 8000 Glenview Drive, is the only off-leash area.
Is an invisible fence enough?
No, the city requires a physical leash any time the dog is off the enclosed property.
What is the fine for a loose dog?
First offenses start near 200 dollars; repeat violations can reach 500 dollars.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in North Richland Hills

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