Douglas County, CO Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Applies to
- Unincorporated Douglas County
- Max leash/tether
- 30 feet
- Running at large
- Class 2 petty offense
- Max fine
- $300 per offense
- Impound fee
- $15 plus boarding
Summary
In unincorporated Douglas County a dog must be kept under "control": restrained by a leash or tether no more than 30 feet long or confined in an escape-proof enclosure. Letting a dog run at large is a Class 2 petty offense.
"Control" means the restraint of a dog by means of a leash or similar tether no more than thirty (30) feet in length or by means of confinement within a fully enclosed area adequate to ensure that the dog will not escape.
Full Breakdown
Douglas County Resolution R-998-100 (the county's Control and Licensing of Dogs and Pet Animals resolution) governs unincorporated land, including Highlands Ranch and Roxborough. "Control" (§1.00(5)) means restraint by a leash or similar tether no more than 30 feet, or full confinement. "Running at large" (§1.00(15)) means off the owner's premises and not under the owner's real and immediate physical control. Under §1.05(1)(b) allowing a dog to run at large is a Class 2 petty offense. An animal control officer may impound a loose dog for up to ten days (§1.03); a $15 impound fee applies (§1.03(2)). Inside Castle Rock, Parker, or Lone Tree the town's leash code controls.
Violations & Fines
Running at large is a Class 2 petty offense; the penalty-assessment fine cannot exceed $300 per separate offense (§1.05(7)). Loose dogs may be impounded up to ten days plus a $15 fee and boarding costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can my dog's leash be?
Can my dog be impounded for being loose?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Douglas County
Compare Douglas County to another location·View the Colorado animal ordinances overview
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