Reno, NV Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Leash
- Required, no length specified
- Governing law
- Washoe County Code 55.100
- City ordinance
- None; Reno ceded animal law
- Enforced by
- Washoe County Regional Animal Services
- Exempt areas
- Dog parks, shows, training
Summary
Washoe County Code 55.100 requires dogs to be on a leash in public areas within the congested areas of the county, which include Reno. The code sets no leash length. Reno has no city animal ordinance.
In the congested areas, it is unlawful for the owner of any dog to allow the dog to be in a public area unless the dog is on a leash. This provision does not apply to special areas that may be designated for training programs, dog shows or dog parks.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Administrative Code: Supplement 64 | Land Development Code: Supplement 5 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Reno itself has no animal-control ordinance: RMC 8.28.000(c) commits the city not to enact or enforce animal control ordinances, leaving all animal law to Washoe County Code Chapter 55, enforced by Washoe County Regional Animal Services. Section 55.100(2) makes it unlawful for a dog owner in the congested areas to allow the dog in a public area unless it is on a leash, with carve-outs for designated training areas, dog shows and dog parks. No leash length appears anywhere in Chapter 55, the six-foot figure often quoted is not in the code. The at-large definition likewise requires only that the dog be physically restrained by a leash.
Violations & Fines
An off-leash dog in a public area of the congested areas violates Washoe County Code 55.100, enforced by Washoe County Regional Animal Services with civil penalties under the county schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Reno have its own leash law?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Reno
Compare Reno to another location·View the Nevada animal ordinances overview
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