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πŸ” Animal Ordinances/Dog Leash Laws

Dog Leash Laws: Federal Way vs Seattle

How do dog leash laws rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Seattle, WA?

Federal Way and Seattle have similar restriction levels.

Federal Way, WA

King County

Some Restrictions

Federal Way requires dogs to be leashed in public under KCC 11.04, leash no longer than 8 feet. Off-leash is allowed only at designated parks like Wedgewood Dog Park and French Lake Off-Leash Area.

View full Federal Way rules β†’

Seattle, WA

King County

Some Restrictions

Seattle requires dogs on leash at all times except in designated off-leash areas per SMC 9.25.084. The city has 14+ off-leash dog parks. Fines enforced by Seattle Animal Shelter.

View full Seattle rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactFederal WaySeattle
Leash Length8 feet maximum-
Off-Leash AreasFrench Lake, Wedgewood-
License RequiredAnnual via RASKC-
CodeKCC 11.04SMC 9.25.084
Leash-Required at all times
Off-Leash-14+ designated areas
Enforcement-Seattle Animal Shelter

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Federal Way FAQ

Where can my dog be off-leash in Federal Way?

Only at designated off-leash areas: French Lake Off-Leash Dog Park and Wedgewood Park dog area. Elsewhere, dogs must be on a leash 8 feet or shorter.

Do I need a dog license in Federal Way?

Yes, through King County Regional Animal Services. Dogs must be licensed annually with current rabies vaccination.

Seattle FAQ

Do I have to keep my dog on a leash in Seattle?

Seattle requires dogs on leash at all times except in designated off-leash areas per SMC 9.25.084. The city has 14+ off-leash dog parks. Fines enforced by Seattle Animal Shelter.

What is the maximum leash length in Seattle?

Leash: Required at all times. Off-Leash: 14+ designated areas. Code: SMC 9.25.084. Enforcement: Seattle Animal Shelter.

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