Multnomah County, OR Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

ANIMAL AT LARGE. Any animal, excluding domestic cats, that is not physically restrained on owner's or keeper's premises including motorized vehicles in a manner that physically prevents the animal from leaving the premises or reaching any public areas; or, is not physically restrained when on public property, or any public area, by a leash, tether or other physical control device not to exceed eight feet in length and under the physical control of a capable person. ANIMAL DISPLAY. Any exhibition, fair, act, circus, ride, trade show, carnival, race, parade, or similar undertaking in which a wild or exotic animal is required to perform tricks, give rides, or participate as accompaniments for the purpose of entertainment, amusement, or benefit of a live audience, whether or not a fee is charged. ANIMAL RESCUE ENTITY. An individual or organization, including but not limited to an animal control agency, humane society, animal shelter, animal sanctuary or boarding kennel not subject to ORS 167.374, but excluding a veterinary facility, that keeps, houses, and maintains in its custody 10 or more animals and that solicits or accepts donations in any form. AGGRESSIVELY BITES. Any dog bite that breaks the skin and is accompanied by an attack where the dog exhibits one or more of the following behaviors, but not limited to: snarling, baring teeth, chasing, growling, barking, snapping, pouncing, (S-1 2018)

lunging, multiple attacks, multiple lunges, or multiple bites.