Ramsey County, MN Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- County leash law
- None: cities set it
- St. Paul max leash length
- 6 feet
- Enforcer
- St. Paul Animal Control
- Invisible fence
- Secondary restraint only
- County code chapter
- St. Paul Ch. 200
Summary
Ramsey County has no countywide animal-control ordinance. Each city sets its own leash law. In St. Paul (the county seat), dogs may not run at large and must be restrained by a chain or leash no longer than six feet, or securely fenced.
Running at large shall mean any animal which is not either: (1) Effectively contained within a fenced area on private property; or (2) Effectively restrained, by chain or leash, to private property with the consent of the property owner; or (3) Effectively restrained by a chain or leash not exceeding six (6) feet in length.
Full Breakdown
There is no Ramsey County, Minnesota leash ordinance for residential streets and yards. Cities license and enforce animal control locally, so your rule is whichever city you live in. St. Paul, Roseville, Maplewood, White Bear Lake, Shoreview, or another suburb. St. Paul Animal Control enforces St. Paul Legislative Code Chapter 200. St. Paul's code defines a dog as running at large unless fenced on private property or restrained by a chain or leash not exceeding six feet. Invisible/underground electric fences count only as a secondary restraint, not a replacement for a leash or fence. County-owned regional parks separately require dogs on leash under Ramsey County Parks rules.
Violations & Fines
St. Paul: a dog found running at large may be seized and impounded by Animal Control; owner pays impound and reclaim fees plus possible citation. Penalties vary by city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Ramsey County have a leash law?
Is an invisible fence enough in St. Paul?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Ramsey County
Compare Ramsey County to another location·View the Minnesota animal ordinances overview
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