Rutherford County, TN Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Leash maximum length
- Six feet (6')
- Handler age
- 18 or older
- At-large fine
- $50 per violation
- Enforcement
- Rutherford County PAWS
- Applies to
- Dogs and cats
Summary
Dogs and cats may not run at large in unincorporated Rutherford County. Off the owner's property an animal must be leashed and controlled by a person able to restrain it. Violations bring impoundment and fines under the county PAWS Rules.
"Properly restrained" means (i) controlled by a competent person over eighteen (18) years of age by means of a chain, leash, or other like device not to exceed six foot (6') in length
Full Breakdown
Article IX of the Rutherford County PAWS Rules makes it unlawful to let an unrestrained dog or cat go onto another's premises or any public street, sidewalk, or public property. 'Properly restrained' means control by a competent person over 18 using a chain, leash, or like device no longer than six feet, secured in a vehicle, or kept in a proper enclosure. Exceptions cover community cats, hunting dogs in chase, police and search-and-rescue dogs, and municipal dog parks. Cities such as Murfreesboro and Smyrna enforce their own leash codes inside city limits.
Violations & Fines
Fifty dollars ($50) per violation; each day and each animal is a separate offense. At-large animals are seized and impounded, and the owner pays impound and board fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my dog be off-leash in my own yard?
Are there off-leash exceptions?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Rutherford County
Compare Rutherford County to another location·View the Tennessee animal ordinances overview
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