Monterey County, CA Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Monterey County Code Title 8 (Animal Control) is enforced by Monterey County Animal Services. Section 8.20.010 (Running at Large) makes it unlawful for any dog to be at large within unincorporated Monterey County, defined as being off the premises of the person owning or controlling the animal. When off-premises a dog must be restrained by a chain, strap, or cord no more than six feet in length attached to its collar or harness and physically held by a person capable of restraint, made fast to a stationary object, or confined in a cage or dog-tight enclosure (including an electric or electronic fence). Section 8.08.030 requires a Monterey County dog license for any dog 4 months or older, and section 8.08.010 requires rabies vaccination for dogs and cats over 4 months. Cities such as Salinas (which contracts with the County), Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Pacific Grove, and Seaside have parallel municipal leash and licensing rules. Cal. Food and Ag. Code section 30951 also requires effective dog restraint statewide. Carmel Beach (in Carmel-by-the-Sea) is a notable off-leash dog beach under city rules - but most Monterey-area beaches require leashes.