Rockwall, TX Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Sec. 6-9, Code of Ordinances
- Applies to
- Dogs and other animals, not cats
- Max fine
- Up to $500 per offense
- Enforcement
- Animal services officer or police
- Continuing violation
- Each day is separate offense
Summary
Rockwall makes it unlawful for owners to let a dog or other animal (except cats) run at large: off the owner's property and not on a leash or secured behind a fence.
It shall be unlawful for any owner to cause, permit, suffer or allow any dog or other animal possessed by him, kept or harbored, other than a cat, to run at large, as defined in section 6-1.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 25 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Under Sec. 6-9, dogs cannot run at large within city limits. "At large" is defined in Sec. 6-1 as not confined by an adequate fence or building, and not secured on the owner's premises by a leash strong enough to keep it there, or, off-premises, not under control by leash, cord, chain, or rope. Animal services officers may pursue loose animals onto private property to enforce the chapter and can impound dogs found running at large.
Violations & Fines
Class-level general penalty applies: up to $500 per offense under Sec. 1-13, with each day of a continuing violation a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cats exempt from Rockwall's leash law?
What counts as "at large" in Rockwall?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Rockwall
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Rockwall to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.