Tustin, CA Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Tustin Municipal Code Chapter 2 of Article 4 ("Animals and Fowl") adopts the Codified Ordinances of the County of Orange by reference under California Government Code Sections 50022.1-50022.9, governing animal control, welfare and licensing in the City (TCC Sec. 4201). Section 4202 directs that any reference to "County of Orange" or "unincorporated area" in the county code be read as "City of Tustin." The adopted Orange County restraint rule (OC Sec. 4-1-45) requires that no dog be on public property unless restrained by a substantial chain or leash "not exceeding six (6) feet in length" and under the control of a competent person. Tustin layers on its own restrictions: under TCC Sec. 4203, no person may permit a dog (other than a guide, signal or service dog) within public school property or any public park in the City, unless the City Council authorizes dogs in a particular park by resolution. TCC Sec. 4225 separately requires that any animal brought into a park be physically restrained by leash, tether, cage or other device, and that owners pick up and dispose of animal waste. Dog licensing is handled through OC Animal Care, which licenses dogs four months and older. Always verify current rules with the City or OC Animal Care, as fees and park designations change.