Dog Leash Laws: Gaithersburg vs Takoma Park
How do dog leash laws rules compare between Gaithersburg, MD and Takoma Park, MD?
Gaithersburg has fewer restrictions than Takoma Park.
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 →Takoma Park, MD
Montgomery County
Takoma Park requires dogs on leash in all parks including Sligo Creek Trail under Montgomery County Code Chapter 5. Owners must clean up pet waste. No off-leash dog parks within city limits.
View full Takoma Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gaithersburg | Takoma Park |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Authority | - | Montgomery County Code Ch. 5 |
| Leash Required | - | All public areas and parks |
| Waste Cleanup | - | Mandatory in all public spaces |
| Licensing | - | Required through Montgomery County |
| Off-Leash Parks | - | None within city limits |
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.
Takoma Park FAQ
Can my dog be off-leash on Sligo Creek Trail?
No. Dogs must be on a physical leash at all times on Sligo Creek Trail and all other Takoma Park parks. Montgomery County operates off-leash dog parks outside city limits.
Where do I license my dog in Takoma Park?
Dog licenses are issued through Montgomery County Animal Services. You need proof of current rabies vaccination. Licenses must be renewed annually.
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