Contra Costa County, CA Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- License Age
- Required at 4 months
- Leash Length
- Max 6 ft in public
- Rabies Vaccination
- Required
- Shelter Locations
- Martinez & Pinole
- At-Large Fine
- Starts ~$100 + impound fees
Summary
Unincorporated Contra Costa County requires dogs to be leashed in public, with leashes capped at 6 feet. Dogs must be licensed by 4 months old with current rabies vaccination; at-large violations start around $100 plus impound fees.
Yes, your dog must be on a leash and under your control unless s/he is on your property, the property of a consenting adult, or on property such as a dog park where the off-leash conditions are designated by appropriate signage or regulation(s). Contra Costa County enforces a 'leash law,' which forbids dogs from being at large or 'loose' (with certain exemptions). See County Code Animal Ordinance, Division 416-4.402. All dogs over four months old in Contra Costa County must have a current rabies vaccination and license. California Health and Safety Code Section 121690 and Contra Costa County Ordinance, Section 416-6.002, require that all dogs over the age of 4 months old be vaccinated against rabies with an approved vaccine and be licensed by the age of 5 months. Dogs over the age of 5 months old must be licensed within 30 days of acquisition, or within 30 days after entering Contra Costa County.
Full Breakdown
Contra Costa County's animal rules (Ordinance Code Chapter 416) require dogs in unincorporated areas to be leashed whenever they are on public property or someone else's land without permission, with leashes limited to 6 feet. Licensing is mandatory once a dog reaches 4 months, and a current rabies vaccination is required to get the license. Contra Costa Animal Services operates shelters in Martinez and Pinole, where impounded dogs are taken. Letting a dog run at large brings a fine starting around $100 plus impound fees, so secure fencing pays for itself quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I walk my dog off-leash on a quiet street in Alamo?
How do I license my dog in unincorporated CCC?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Contra Costa County
California rules heatmap·Compare Contra Costa County to another location·View the California animal ordinances overview
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