Saint Paul, MN Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

05 defines 'running at large' broadly: a dog is at large if it isn't effectively contained within a fenced area, isn't restrained by chain or leash on private property with the owner's consent, or, anywhere on a street, alley, public park, school ground or public place, isn't restrained by a chain or leash of six feet or less (shorter if the dog is designated dangerous under Sec. 121(a)(4), which caps that leash at three feet). The only exemption is a dog inside a city-posted off-leash area under Sec.

06, provided it hasn't been declared potentially dangerous or dangerous under Sec. 12 and hasn't been excluded from that area. Invisible underground electric fences are expressly limited to secondary restraint and cannot replace a leash, chain or physical fence. 16 adds equipment specifications: collars can't exceed two pounds, can't carry sharp interior prongs, and blunt-pronged training collars are allowed only if properly fitted; leashes can't exceed six feet or four pounds. Chains, tethers and tie-outs must be at least three times the animal's length, weigh no more than ten pounds, and can't let the dog reach a sidewalk, street, alley or a neighbor's yard without written permission.

A tethered dog can be secured to a stationary object for no more than two consecutive hours, with a two-hour rest between sessions and no more than four two-hour sessions in 24 hours, unless it's on an exempt kennel or pulley system meeting minimum size, height and flooring specifications. Violations fall under Sec. 06 for seizure and impoundment and Sec. 18 for penalty.