Dog Leash Laws: Costa Mesa vs Midway City
How do dog leash laws rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Midway City, CA?
Costa Mesa has fewer restrictions than Midway City.
Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
Costa Mesa requires dogs off their own property to be on a 6-foot or shorter leash held by a person who can completely control the dog at all times. The only off-leash exception is Costa Mesa Bark Park.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Midway City, CA
Orange County
OCCO Section 4-1-45 requires all dogs to be restrained by a leash not exceeding 6 feet when off the owner's property in unincorporated Orange County. Dogs on private property must be restrained by a fence, wall, chain, or leash under the control of a competent person.
View full Midway City rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Midway City |
|---|---|---|
| Leash Length | 6 feet or shorter | 6 feet maximum |
| Off-Leash Area | Bark Park only | - |
| Control Required | Complete control at all times | - |
| License Required | Yes — rabies vaccine needed | - |
| Contact | Animal Control — (714) 754-5311 | - |
| Code Section | - | OCCO §4-1-45 |
| Licensing Required | - | Dogs 4+ months (§4-1-70) |
| Enforcement | - | OC Animal Care |
| School Property | - | Dogs prohibited (§4-1-46) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Costa Mesa FAQ
What is the leash law in Costa Mesa?
Dogs off their own property must be on a 6-foot or shorter leash, held by a person who can completely control the dog at all times.
Where can my dog be off-leash?
Only at Costa Mesa Bark Park. All other public areas require leashes.
Do dogs need to be licensed?
Yes. Dog licensing with rabies vaccination is required. Contact Animal Control at (714) 754-5311.
Midway City FAQ
What are the leash requirements in unincorporated Orange County?
Dogs must be on a leash not exceeding 6 feet when off the owner's property under OCCO Section 4-1-45. The dog must be under the control of a competent person at all times.
Are there off-leash areas in Orange County?
Yes. Designated off-leash dog parks throughout Orange County allow dogs without leashes in fenced areas. Dogs are still prohibited on most public beaches and school property.
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