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Chatham County, GA Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

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

Key Facts

Leash standard
Dog must stay under manual control
At-large ban
No off-leash on public/other property
Tethering
Only trolley system allowed; single-point banned
Trolley tether length
At least 15 feet
Fine range
$100 to $1,000 per count

Summary

In unincorporated Chatham County, dogs must stay under manual control of a person. A dog off-leash on public roads, in parks, or on another's property is 'at large' and unlawful. Single-point tethering is banned; only a trolley system qualifies.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of Chatham County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

It shall be unlawful for the owner of any dog to permit the same to run at large. At large means any dog which is not under manual control of a person, and which is on any public roads of this state or on any property not belonging to the owner of the animal.

Source: Chatham County Code Ch. 22 - Animal ControlView official code

Full Breakdown

Chatham County Code §22-103(b) makes it unlawful to let a dog run at large, defined as any dog not under manual control that is on a public road or on property not belonging to the owner without permission. Retractable leashes over 6 feet are barred at permitted parades, farmers' markets, and festivals. Tethering rules in §22-208 state: 'Single point tethering is prohibited. Tethering a dog by a trolley system is the only approved form of tether.' A lawful trolley tether must be at least 15 feet, use a non-choke collar, provide shelter and water, and never be used in extreme weather. Classified (dangerous) dogs may not be tethered.

Violations & Fines

Enforced by Chatham County Animal Services citation; violations bring a fine of not less than $100 and up to $1,000 per count, plus possible impoundment and restitution (§22-106).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I let my dog off-leash in a Chatham County park?
No. A dog off a leash on county parks, playgrounds, or facilities in unincorporated Chatham is treated as 'at large' and unlawful under §22-103(b).
Is chaining my dog to a post allowed?
No. Single-point tethering is prohibited; only an approved trolley/running-line system meeting all §22-208 conditions is permitted, and never for a classified dog.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Chatham County

Noise Ordinances: Quiet HoursSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsChickens & LivestockSome RestrictionsMandatory Spay/NeuterSignificant RestrictionsMicrochippingSome RestrictionsCat RulesSome RestrictionsExotic PetsSome RestrictionsPet LimitsSome RestrictionsBreed RestrictionsSignificant RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Vehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Decibel LimitsSome RestrictionsFire Regulations: FireworksHeavy Restrictions

All Chatham County rules

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