All dogs over 4 months in Richmond must be licensed annually through Contra Costa County Animal Services and wear the license tag. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet when off the owner's property, except in designated off-leash areas. Proof of rabies vaccination is required for licensing.
Richmond contracts with Contra Costa County Animal Services Department for animal control, licensing, and enforcement. All dogs over 4 months of age must be licensed annually; fees are lower for spayed/neutered animals (typically $20-25) and higher for unaltered dogs ($75-100). A current rabies vaccination certificate from a licensed veterinarian is required at licensing. Richmond Municipal Code Chapter 6.04 and the Contra Costa County Code require dogs to be on a leash no longer than 6 feet whenever off the owner's property. Off-leash activity is permitted only in designated dog parks (Point Isabel Regional Shoreline is nearby, though managed by EBRPD). Violations result in citations ranging from $50 for first-offense leash violations to $250+ for unlicensed dogs. Dogs running at large may be impounded; reclaim fees plus daily boarding apply. Service animals performing work for a person with a disability are exempt from leash requirements while working, under the federal ADA.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Contra Costa County.
See how other cities in Contra Costa County handle dog leash laws.
See how Richmond's dog leash laws rules stack up against other locations.
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