Texarkana, TX Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum fenced area
- 100 sq ft per dog
- Leash exception
- Handler must control the dog
- Electronic fences
- Not compliant fencing
- Impound hold
- 3 days (7 if tagged)
Summary
Texarkana requires dogs to be confined by fence or building, or leashed, at all times; letting a dog run at large citywide is unlawful.
A dog shall at all times be confined within a building or a fenced area that is at least 100 square feet in size per dog over four months of age and of sufficient strength and construction to confine the dog or keep the dog from running at large. It shall be unlawful for an owner of a dog, to fail to keep the dog from running at large within the city limits. When a dog is on a leash held by a person capable of controlling the dog...a dog shall not be deemed running at large.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 27).
Full Breakdown
City code makes it unlawful for an owner to let a dog run at large anywhere within Texarkana city limits. A dog must be confined in a building or a fenced area of at least 100 square feet per dog over four months old, sturdy enough to hold the dog in. A dog on a leash held by someone capable of controlling it, or riding confined in a vehicle cab, is not considered at large. Electronic (invisible) fences don't count as compliant fencing.
Violations & Fines
Running a dog at large is a misdemeanor citation issued by animal control or police; loose dogs can be impounded, held 3 days (7 if tagged/licensed), and released only after fees and proof of current rabies vaccination/registration are met.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my dog be off-leash in my fenced yard?
Is a dog in my car considered running at large?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Texarkana
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Texarkana to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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