Pomona Dog Leash Laws Rules (2026): What You Need to Know
Heavy RestrictionsThe Short Version
Pomona Municipal Code Article V requires all dogs to be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet when off the owner's property, including on all public streets, sidewalks, parks, and trails. Dogs must be under the physical control of a person capable of restraining the animal at all times. Pomona does not operate a designated off-leash dog park within city limits. All dogs over the age of four months must be licensed with the City and currently vaccinated against rabies.
Full Breakdown
Pomona Municipal Code Article V (Animals) establishes comprehensive leash requirements for dogs within the city. All dogs must be restrained on a leash, chain, or similar tether no longer than 6 feet in length when outside the owner's property, and the leash must be held by a person who is physically capable of controlling and restraining the dog. This requirement applies to all public places including streets, sidewalks, parks, plazas, trails, parking lots, and the areas surrounding the LA County Fairplex and Cal Poly Pomona campus. Retractable leashes are permitted as long as the effective lead length does not exceed 6 feet during use in public areas.
Pomona does not currently operate a designated off-leash dog park within city limits, so there is no public area where dogs may legally run off-leash. Dogs found roaming at large — off the owner's property without a leash and without direct physical control — are subject to impoundment by animal control officers. Pomona contracts with the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) for animal control field services, licensing, and shelter operations. The nearest DACC shelter serving Pomona is the Pomona Animal Shelter at 155 East Mission Boulevard.
All dogs over the age of four months must be licensed through the LA County DACC licensing program. Licenses require proof of current rabies vaccination and must be renewed annually. Spayed or neutered dogs receive a reduced licensing fee. Dogs declared potentially dangerous or vicious under California Food and Agricultural Code Sections 31601-31683 are subject to additional confinement, insurance, and restraint requirements. Pomona's leash law applies equally to all dog breeds — California state law under Food and Agricultural Code Section 31683 prohibits breed-specific regulations.
Residents can report dogs at large, barking complaints, and animal welfare concerns to LA County DACC at (562) 940-6898 or through the DACC online service request portal.
What Happens If You Violate This?
Dog-at-large violations carry fines starting at $100 for a first offense, $200 for a second offense, and $500 for subsequent offenses within 12 months. Impoundment fees include shelter boarding costs of approximately $20-30 per day plus a release fee. Unlicensed dog penalties range from $50 to $250 depending on how long the license has been expired. Owners of dogs involved in bite incidents face mandatory quarantine and potential dangerous-dog proceedings under California state law.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the leash length limit for dogs in Pomona?
Is there a dog park in Pomona where my dog can go off-leash?
How do I license my dog in Pomona?
Sources & Official References
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