Dog Leash Laws: Fontana vs Rialto
How do dog leash laws rules compare between Fontana, CA and Rialto, CA?
Fontana and Rialto have similar restriction levels.
Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Fontana requires dogs to be on leash whenever off the owner's property. Municipal Code Chapter 4 and companion San Bernardino County animal code enforce the leash rule, and dogs running at large can be impounded by Animal Services.
View full Fontana rules →Rialto, CA
San Bernardino County
Rialto Municipal Code Title 6 (Animals) requires dogs to be restrained on a leash when off the owner's property and prohibits any dog from running at large in the city. Owners are strictly liable for control of the animal in public rights-of-way, parks, and on other private property.
View full Rialto rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | Rialto |
|---|---|---|
| Leash | Required off private property | - |
| Max Length | 6 feet | - |
| Off-Leash | Only in designated dog parks | - |
| At-Large | Impound plus reclaim fees | - |
| Waste | Cleanup required in public | - |
| Leash required | - | Yes — whenever dog is off owner's property (Rialto Code Title 6) |
| Running at large | - | Prohibited citywide; subject to impound |
| Rabies vaccination & license | - | Required (Cal. HSC §121690; Rialto Title 6 license program) |
| Bite liability | - | Strict liability under Cal. Civil Code §3342 |
| Enforcement | - | Rialto Animal Services / Community Compliance |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fontana FAQ
Is voice control enough for my well-trained dog?
No. Fontana requires a physical leash off private property. Voice command does not satisfy the code.
Where can I let my dog off leash?
Only in a designated off-leash area such as Jack Bulik Park Dog Park, following the posted park rules.
Rialto FAQ
Can my dog be off-leash in a Rialto city park?
No. City parks require dogs to be leashed; off-leash use is allowed only in a posted, legally designated off-leash area.
What happens if my dog is picked up at large?
The dog is impounded at the contracted San Bernardino County / Rialto shelter. The owner pays impound, daily board, vaccination (if not current), and licensing fees to redeem the animal.
Do I need a license for an indoor-only dog?
Yes. Rialto Title 6 requires all dogs over four months to be licensed and currently vaccinated against rabies regardless of whether they go outside.
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