Polk County, FL Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

Polk County's leash law is found in Chapter 4 (Animals and Fowl), Article II (Animal Control and Services) of the County Code, adopted via Ordinance 18-068. Section 7(b) of the ordinance prohibits any person from causing, permitting, or allowing a dog or unaltered cat to stray or run at large on public streets, sidewalks, parks, other public property, or the private property of another. Section 2 defines direct control as immediate and continuous physical control by means of a fence, leash, cord, or chain of sufficient strength to restrain the animal. For trained or hunting dogs that immediately respond to commands, aural or oral control may qualify as direct control if the controlling person remains within unobstructed sight and hearing of the animal. Section 2 also defines at large as an animal off the owner's premises without direct control. The ordinance requires dogs and cats four months and older to have a current rabies vaccination and a valid Polk County license tag. Dangerous-dog classifications are governed by F.S. §767 and §828.27, with secure-enclosure, signage, and identification requirements. Enforcement is by Polk County Sheriff's Office Animal Services.