Dog Leash Laws: Kent vs Seattle
How do dog leash laws rules compare between Kent, WA and Seattle, WA?
Kent and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Kent, WA
King County
Kent requires dogs to be leashed or under competent voice control off private property. Dogs running at large are a public nuisance. Fines start at $100 and escalate to $500 for repeat violations.
View full Kent rules →Seattle, WA
King County
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 →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kent | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Offense | $100 | - |
| 4th Offense | $500 | - |
| Off-Leash Parks | Grandview and Morrill Meadows | - |
| Code | KCC 8.03 / KCC Title 11 | SMC 9.25.084 |
| Leash | - | Required at all times |
| Off-Leash | - | 14+ designated areas |
| Enforcement | - | Seattle Animal Shelter |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kent FAQ
Do dogs have to be on leash in Kent?
Yes, off the owner property. Voice or signal control qualifies only if the dog is reliably restrained from bystanders and other animals.
Where can I take my dog off-leash in Kent?
Grandview Park (West Hill) and Morrill Meadows (East Hill) have off-leash areas. The Grandview Off-Leash Dog Park sits just across the SeaTac border.
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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