Dog Leash Laws: Costa Mesa vs Santa Ana
How do dog leash laws rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Costa Mesa and Santa Ana have similar restriction levels.
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 →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Santa Ana requires dogs to be restrained by a leash not exceeding six feet in length when on any public property, consistent with Orange County animal control ordinances adopted by reference in SAMC Chapter 5. Dogs must be under the control of a competent person at all times.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Leash Length | 6 feet or shorter | - |
| 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 | - |
| Leash Required | - | Yes — on all public property |
| Max Leash Length | - | 6 feet |
| Cleanup Required | - | Yes — owners must clean up waste |
| Off-Leash Areas | - | Designated dog parks only |
| Enforcement | - | OC Animal Care |
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.
Santa Ana FAQ
Do I need to keep my dog on a leash in Santa Ana?
Yes. Dogs must be on a leash not exceeding six feet in length when on any public property including streets, sidewalks, and parks.
Where can my dog be off-leash in Santa Ana?
Dogs may be off-leash only in designated off-leash dog park areas within the city.
What happens if my dog is found running loose?
Dogs at large may be impounded by OC Animal Care. Owners face citation and fines for allowing a dog to run at large.
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