Universal City, TX Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Leash Max Length
- Six feet
- Off-Leash
- Not allowed in public
- Impound
- Bexar County / contracted shelter
- State Law
- TX H&S 822 strict liability for bites
- Max Fine
- Up to 500 dollars
Summary
Universal City requires all dogs to be on a leash no longer than six feet when off the owners property. Off-leash dogs are subject to impoundment and citation.
Sec. 822.042. REQUIREMENTS FOR OWNER OF DANGEROUS DOG. (a) Not later than the 30th day after a person learns that the person is the owner of a dangerous dog, the person shall: (1) register the dangerous dog with the animal control authority for the area in which the dog is kept; (2) restrain the dangerous dog at all times on a leash in the immediate control of a person or in a secure enclosure; (3) obtain liability insurance coverage or show financial responsibility in an amount of at least $100,000 to cover damages resulting from an attack by the dangerous dog causing bodily injury to a person ... ; and (4) comply with an applicable municipal or county regulation, requirement, or restriction on dangerous dogs.
Full Breakdown
Under Universal City Code Chapter 6, all dogs must be under the direct physical control of a handler via leash (not exceeding six feet) whenever they are off the owners private property. Voice control alone is not sufficient. Universal City does not operate a designated off-leash dog park within city limits, so residents often travel to Bexar County off-leash areas. Animal Control officers can impound loose dogs and charge daily boarding fees plus reclaim fees. TX Health and Safety Code 822 imposes additional strict-liability rules if a loose dog bites a person. Violations are Class C misdemeanors with fines up to 500 dollars. Repeat loose-dog offenses can support a dangerous-dog declaration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I walk my dog off-leash if he has great recall?
Where can I let my dog run off-leash?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Universal City
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Universal City to another location·View the Texas animal ordinances overview
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Dog Leash Laws in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Bexar County handle dog leash laws.