Wichita, KS Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Under Wichita Municipal Code Chapter 6.04, dogs must be physically restrained by a leash no longer than 8 feet whenever they are off the owner's private property, except in designated off-leash dog parks such as Chapin Memorial Off-Leash Dog Park. Owners are responsible for picking up and disposing of pet waste in public spaces. All dogs over 4 months old must be licensed annually with Wichita Animal Services and must have a current rabies vaccination administered by a Kansas-licensed veterinarian. Tags must be displayed on the dog's collar. Dogs running at large can be impounded by Animal Services and held for at least 3 business days, after which unclaimed animals may be adopted, transferred, or euthanized. Reclaiming an impounded dog requires payment of impound fees, daily boarding charges, vaccination costs if applicable, and licensing. Repeat at-large violations result in escalating fines and may trigger a dangerous dog evaluation if aggressive behavior is documented. Tethering of dogs is allowed but tethers must be at least 10 feet long, attached to a properly fitted collar (not a choke chain), and provide access to shelter, food, and water. Continuous tethering for more than 12 hours may be considered cruelty under Kansas law (K.S.A. 21-6412).