The Woodlands, TX Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Enforcement
- Montgomery County Animal Services
- Covenant Coverage
- Not addressed in covenants
- Contact MCAS
- mcaspets.org
- Tether Min.
- 5x dog body length (state law)
Summary
Dog restraint and leash requirements in The Woodlands are enforced by Montgomery County Animal Services and the Sheriff under Texas law. The Township covenants cannot regulate this area directly.
Sec. 822.012. CERTAIN DOGS AND COYOTES PROHIBITED FROM RUNNING AT LARGE; CRIMINAL PENALTY. (a) The owner, keeper, or person in control of a dog or coyote that the owner, keeper, or person knows is accustomed to run, worry, or kill livestock, domestic animals, or fowls may not permit the dog or coyote to run at large. (b) A person who violates this section commits an offense. An offense under this subsection is punishable by a fine of not more than $100. (c) Each time a dog or coyote runs at large in violation of this section constitutes a separate offense.
Full Breakdown
As an unincorporated area, The Woodlands is subject to Montgomery County animal control rules and Texas state law for leash and restraint requirements. Dogs must be under restraint when off the owner's property. Montgomery County Animal Services (MCAS) handles complaints about dogs at large. Texas law requires dogs tethered outdoors to have access to an area at least five times the dog's body length. The Township's covenants do not regulate animal restraint, so enforcement is entirely through county and state mechanisms. Contact MCAS at mcaspets.org.
Violations & Fines
MCAS citations for dogs at large. State law: Class C misdemeanor for certain tethering violations, Class B for repeat offenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to keep my dog on a leash in the Woodlands?
What is the maximum leash length in the Woodlands?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in The Woodlands
Texas rules heatmap·Compare The Woodlands to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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Dog Leash Laws in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Montgomery County handle dog leash laws.