Larimer County, CO Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Larimer County's animal control framework is Revised Ordinance 11122002O001, codified as Chapter 6 of the Larimer County Code, adopted under CRS §30-15-401(1)(j) authorizing counties to regulate dogs running at large. A leash or lead is defined as a thong, cord, rope, chain, or similar tether not exceeding six feet in length; a longer or retractable lead is permitted only when actively exercising or training and only where it does not interfere with public access. A dog is at large when not physically held on a leash or confined by a fence to property the owner is entitled to use, regardless of voice command — Larimer County does not recognize the voice-and-sight off-leash standard used in some adjacent jurisdictions. Owners of any dog or cat over four months of age must vaccinate against rabies and maintain a current Larimer County dog license under Article II of Chapter 6. License fees are set by Board of County Commissioners resolution, with reduced rates for sterilized animals and seniors. Section 6-81 governs household animal limits using a qualitative standard rather than a numeric cap: animals may not exceed what can be maintained healthily without nuisance, allowing many or restricting a few based on conditions. The Larimer Humane Society enforces under contract; complaints route to 970-226-3647. Violations are county petty offenses with fines, impoundment, and potential dangerous-dog designations on repeat offenses.