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Fort Bend County, TX Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Light Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Leash required off property
Yes
Rabies tag required
Yes
Impoundment authority
Animal Services
Max fine
$500 per offense

Summary

Fort Bend County requires dogs to be restrained by leash, fence, or enclosure when off the owner's property, with stricter rules for dogs running at large in unincorporated areas.

City-specific rules exist: Missouri City, Katy, Rosenberg, Richmond, Fulshear, and Sugar Land have their own dog leash laws rules that differ from Fort Bend County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

(i) It is a defense to prosecution under Section 822.005(a) that, at the time of the conduct charged, the person's dog was on a leash and the person:(1) was in immediate control of the dog; or(2) if the person was not in control of the dog, the person was making immediate and reasonable attempts to regain control of the dog. Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 669 (H.B. 1355), Sec. 6, eff. September 1, 2007.Amended by: Acts 2015, 84th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1 (S.B. 219), Sec. 3.1598, eff. April 2, 2015.

Sec. 822.007. LOCAL REGULATION OF DOGS. This subchapter does not prohibit a municipality or county from adopting leash or registration requirements applicable to dogs. Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 669 (H.B. 1355), Sec. 6, eff. September 1, 2007.

SUBCHAPTER B. DOGS AND COYOT

Source: City of FortbendcountyView official code

Full Breakdown

Under Fort Bend County's animal control rules and Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 822 enforcement, dogs in unincorporated Fort Bend County must be under direct physical control of a competent person whenever off the owner's property. Animals running at large may be impounded by the Fort Bend County Animal Services division. Owners must also ensure dogs are vaccinated for rabies and properly tagged. Additional restraint requirements apply to dogs deemed dangerous, requiring secure enclosures, registration, and liability insurance.

Violations & Fines

Violations may result in impoundment fees, citations, and Class C misdemeanor charges with fines up to $500 per offense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do leash rules apply in unincorporated Fort Bend County?
Yes. Dogs must be restrained by leash or secure enclosure whenever they leave the owner's property in unincorporated areas of the county.
What happens if my dog is picked up running loose?
Animal Services may impound the dog. Owners must pay impoundment, boarding, and vaccination fees before reclaiming the pet.
Are there extra rules for dangerous dogs?
Yes. Dogs declared dangerous must be securely enclosed, registered with the county, and the owner must carry liability insurance.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Fort Bend County

Noise Ordinances: Quiet HoursFew RestrictionsFence Regulations: Height LimitsFew RestrictionsBeekeepingFew RestrictionsBreed RestrictionsFew RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesLight RestrictionsFire Regulations: Outdoor BurningLight RestrictionsFire Regulations: FireworksLight RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Weed OrdinancesLight Restrictions

All Fort Bend County rules

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Dog Leash Laws in Cities Across Fort Bend County

Sugar Land, TXMissouri City, TXRosenberg, TXKaty, TXFulshear, TXStafford, TXRichmond, TX