Whatcom County, WA Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)
Key Facts
- Leash
- Required off own property
- License
- Required plus rabies
- Bite Liability
- Strict, RCW 16.08.040
- Off-Leash
- Designated areas only
Summary
Whatcom County and its cities require dogs to be leashed or under control off the owner's property, with licensing and rabies vaccination required. Under RCW 16.08.040, a dog owner is liable for any bite, regardless of the dog's prior history.
The owner of any dog which shall bite any person while such person is in or on a public place or lawfully in or on a private place including the property of the owner of such dog, shall be liable for such damages as may be suffered by the person bitten, regardless of the former viciousness of such dog or the owner's knowledge of such viciousness.
Full Breakdown
Leash and running-at-large rules in Whatcom County are set locally. Unincorporated county code and city ordinances in Bellingham, Lynden, and Ferndale require dogs to be leashed or under control when off the owner's property, with off-leash exercise limited to designated areas. Dogs must be licensed and vaccinated against rabies. Statewide, RCW 16.08.040 makes an owner strictly liable for a dog bite that happens in a public place or lawfully on private property, regardless of the dog's prior viciousness. Owners are also responsible for cleaning up after their dogs on trails and in parks.
Violations & Fines
Running at large and unlicensed dogs draw citations and impound fees. Under RCW 16.08.040, the owner is civilly liable for damages from a bite even on a first incident.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my dog have to be on a leash?
Am I liable if my dog bites someone?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Whatcom County
Compare Whatcom County to another location·View the Washington animal ordinances overview
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