Dog Leash Laws: Gaithersburg vs Rockville
How do dog leash laws rules compare between Gaithersburg, MD and Rockville, MD?
Gaithersburg and Rockville have similar restriction levels.
Gaithersburg, MD
Montgomery County
Gaithersburg enforces Montgomery County Code Chapter 5 leash requirements throughout all city parks, sidewalks, trails, and public spaces. Dogs must be restrained by a leash or confined to the owner's property at all times when outside the home. There is no maximum leash length specified in the county code, but the owner must maintain physical control of the animal at all times. At-large fines start at $100 for the first offense and rise to $500 for subsequent violations within the same calendar year. Off-leash exercise is only permitted at designated county dog parks, including the Olde Towne Dog Park within Gaithersburg city limits. All dogs over four months of age must be licensed annually through Montgomery County and carry a current rabies vaccination certificate. License fees are reduced for spayed or neutered animals, incentivizing responsible pet ownership across the community.
View full Gaithersburg rules →Rockville, MD
Montgomery County
Rockville requires dogs to be leashed off the owner's property under City Code Chapter 3. First offense for a dog at large is $100, subsequent violations $500.
View full Rockville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gaithersburg | Rockville |
|---|---|---|
| Leash Requirement | Required off owner's property at all times | - |
| First At-Large Fine | $100 | - |
| Repeat At-Large Fine | $500 | - |
| License Fee | $12 spayed/neutered; $25 intact | - |
| Code | Montgomery County Code Chapter 5 | - |
| Leash | - | Required off owner's property |
| First Offense | - | $100 fine |
| Repeat Offense | - | $500 fine |
| Licensing | - | Annual, dogs/cats/ferrets 4+ months |
| Off-Leash | - | Designated park areas only |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gaithersburg FAQ
Are there off-leash dog parks in Gaithersburg?
Yes. Olde Towne Dog Park on South Frederick Avenue and select Montgomery County dog parks allow off-leash exercise in fenced areas. Dogs must be licensed, vaccinated, and supervised by an adult handler at all times. Aggressive dogs must be removed immediately.
What do I do if a neighbor's dog is running loose?
Contact Montgomery County Animal Services at 240-773-5900 or file a complaint online through the county's 311 portal. For immediate danger to people or other animals, call Gaithersburg Police non-emergency at 301-258-6400 or 911 for emergencies.
Are pit bulls banned in Gaithersburg?
No. Montgomery County repealed its breed-specific restrictions. No dog breeds are banned in Gaithersburg. However, individual dogs classified as dangerous or potentially dangerous after a bite incident may face additional restraint requirements.
Rockville FAQ
Do dogs have to be leashed in Rockville?
Yes. All dogs must be on a leash when off the owner's property. The only exceptions are designated off-leash areas in parks, service dogs, and approved activities like dog shows.
What is the fine for an unleashed dog?
First offense is $100. Each subsequent violation is $500 under Montgomery County Code Chapter 5.
Do I need to license my dog in Rockville?
Yes. All dogs, cats, and ferrets 4 months and older must be licensed annually with the city and have a current rabies vaccination.
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