Walnut Creek, CA Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Walnut Creek contracts with Contra Costa County Animal Services for animal licensing, control, and sheltering. Every dog over four months of age must be licensed annually; rabies vaccination is a prerequisite. Reduced fees apply for altered (spayed/neutered) dogs and for dogs owned by seniors. Licenses must be renewed yearly and the tag must be worn on the dog's collar whenever it is off the owner's property. Off the owner's premises, dogs must be physically restrained by a leash not exceeding six feet held by a person capable of controlling the animal. Retractable leashes are permitted only if they can be locked at or under six feet. Dogs may be off-leash only within designated off-leash areas, the largest of which is the Heather Farm Dog Park on Marchbanks Drive; off-leash use of general park areas, trails (including the Iron Horse Trail and Canal Trail), and open space preserves is prohibited. Dogs are banned from all playgrounds, sport fields in use, and picnic areas unless leashed. Failure to license is an infraction with fines that typically double the annual license fee plus administrative penalties.