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

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

Key Facts

Leash Required
Yes, off private property
Rabies Vaccine
Mandatory for all dogs
At Large
Subject to impoundment
Contact
432-368-3527 Animal Control

Summary

Odessa requires dogs to be on a leash or under the owner's control when off private property. Dogs running at large are subject to impoundment by Animal Control. All dogs must be currently vaccinated against rabies.

Sec. 822.041. DEFINITIONS. In this subchapter:(1) "Animal control authority" means a municipal or county animal control office with authority over the area where the dog is kept or a county sheriff in an area with no animal control office.(2) "Dangerous dog" means a dog that:(A) makes an unprovoked attack on a person that causes bodily injury and occurs in a place other than an enclosure in which the dog was being kept and that was reasonably certain to prevent the dog from leaving the enclosure on its own; or(B) commits unprovoked acts in a place other than an enclosure in which the dog was being kept and that was reasonably certain to prevent the dog from leaving the enclosure on its own and those acts cause a person to reasonably

Source: Odessa Municipal CodeView official code

Full Breakdown

Dogs must be restrained by a leash, chain, or other tether when off the owner's property. Dogs running at large may be picked up by Animal Control and impounded at the city animal shelter. Owners must pay impound fees and provide proof of rabies vaccination to reclaim their pets. Current rabies vaccination is mandatory for all dogs.

Violations & Fines

Dogs at large result in impoundment and fines. Owners without proof of rabies vaccination face additional penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a leash law in Odessa?
Yes, dogs must be leashed or under the owner's control when off private property. Dogs at large can be impounded.
What vaccinations are required for dogs in Odessa?
All dogs must have a current rabies vaccination. Proof of vaccination is required to reclaim impounded animals.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Odessa

All Odessa rules

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