Wilmington, NC Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash Laws (2026)

1 makes it unlawful for a dog owner to allow the animal to run at-large off the owner's premises unless it is physically restrained by a chain, leash or harness with one end attached to the dog and the other end held by a competent person, except in posted, designated pet exercise areas in parks owned or operated by New Hanover County. The ordinance defines "leash" to exclude an electronic leash or any device that fails to create an uninterrupted tangible, physical, visible connection between the dog and the person holding it, so invisible-fence and e-collar systems do not satisfy the restraint requirement on public property.

Terms like "at large," "competent person" and "owner" carry the meanings set in the New Hanover County Code, and enforcement runs through animal control officers designated by the Animal Services Unit of the New Hanover County Sheriff's Department. When an officer personally observes a dog running at-large, the officer may, at his or her discretion, impound the dog under the county code or return it to the owner. On a citizen complaint, the officer must investigate and, on finding probable cause, may issue a citation or warning, or take other action allowed under the county code or state law. The provision does not apply to a dog a law enforcement officer is using to carry out official duties.