Raleigh requires dogs to be on a leash no more than 6 feet long whenever off the owner's property, except in designated off-leash dog parks. Dogs must also be under owner control, licensed, and rabies-vaccinated. Violations result in fines, and repeated offenses may lead to impoundment or dangerous-dog proceedings.
Raleigh City Code Part 12 (Animals) requires all dogs to be on a physical leash of no more than 6 feet in length and under the direct control of a person whenever they are off the owner's property. Voice control alone is not sufficient in Raleigh except within designated off-leash areas. The City operates several official off-leash dog parks, including Carolina Pines, Millbrook Exchange, and Oakwood, where dogs may run freely if they remain under voice control and owners follow posted park rules. Dogs at-large outside of these areas may be impounded by Raleigh Animal Control, and owners face fines that increase with repeat violations. Dogs must be licensed with Wake County (Raleigh uses the Wake County rabies and licensing system), and all dogs and cats over 4 months old must have a current rabies vaccination under state law. Dog owners are also responsible for picking up after their pets in public areas and for preventing excessive barking that disturbs neighbors. Service animals are exempt from leash rules in a functional sense, though they must remain under control. Dogs running loose that chase or bite wildlife or livestock may be subject to additional civil liability under NC law.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Raleigh code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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