Okaloosa County, FL Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Under Section 5-25 of the Okaloosa County code, no dog or cat may run at large off its owner's premises onto public property or onto private property without permission. Section 5-28 sets the restraint rules: off the owner's property the only acceptable methods are a leash held by a competent person, a secure enclosure, a vehicle, or a ventilated carrier. Dogs and cats are barred from the county's public beaches unless a sign clearly posted by the county authorizes them. Every dog and cat over three months old must be rabies-vaccinated and wear the tag off-premises under Section 5-37. Animal control runs with the Panhandle Animal Welfare Society (PAWS).