Dogs and cats may not run at large in unincorporated Rutherford County. Off the owner's property an animal must be leashed and controlled by a person able to restrain it. Violations bring impoundment and fines under the county PAWS Rules.
Article IX of the Rutherford County PAWS Rules makes it unlawful to let an unrestrained dog or cat go onto another's premises or any public street, sidewalk, or public property. 'Properly restrained' means control by a competent person over 18 using a chain, leash, or like device no longer than six feet, secured in a vehicle, or kept in a proper enclosure. Exceptions cover community cats, hunting dogs in chase, police and search-and-rescue dogs, and municipal dog parks. Cities such as Murfreesboro and Smyrna enforce their own leash codes inside city limits.
Fifty dollars ($50) per violation; each day and each animal is a separate offense. At-large animals are seized and impounded, and the owner pays impound and board fees.
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See how Rutherford County's dog leash laws rules stack up against other locations.
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