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

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

Key Facts

Leash required
Off-property at all times
Tethering outside fence
Prohibited
Code chapter
Chapter 6 Animals
Impound authority
Pearland Animal Services
Typical fine range
$100 to $500

Summary

Pearland requires dogs to be leashed or confined within a fence at all times, prohibiting tethering outside of fenced yards and running at large in the city.

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;

Source: Chapter 6 – Animals (Municode)View official code

Full Breakdown

Under Chapter 6 of the Pearland Code of Ordinances, owners must keep dogs and cats either inside a secure fence or under physical control on a leash whenever the animal is off the owner's property. Pearland additionally prohibits tethering or chaining a dog outside of a fenced yard, requiring physical containment rather than tie-outs. Animals running at large may be impounded by Animal Services, and owners are responsible for redemption fees, vaccination verification, and any associated citations.

Violations & Fines

At-large and leash violations are class C misdemeanors prosecuted in municipal court, generally carrying fines from approximately $100 up to $500 per offense, plus impound and boarding fees. Repeat offenses and aggressive incidents can lead to higher penalties and dangerous-dog proceedings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my dog be off-leash in my front yard?
Only if the yard is securely fenced or the dog is under physical control on a leash. An unfenced front yard does not satisfy Pearland's containment requirement.
Are tie-outs allowed in Pearland?
No. Pearland prohibits tethering a dog outside of a fenced yard. Owners must rely on fencing or active leash control rather than chains or stakes.
What happens if my dog is picked up at large?
The dog will be taken to Pearland Animal Services. The owner must pay impound, boarding, and citation fees, and show proof of current rabies vaccination before release.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Pearland

All Pearland rules

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