Dog Leash Laws: Lakewood vs Tacoma
How do dog leash laws rules compare between Lakewood, WA and Tacoma, WA?
Lakewood has fewer restrictions than Tacoma.
Lakewood, WA
Pierce County
Lakewood requires dogs and other animals to be under restraint by leash or chain held by a competent person whenever they are off the owner's premises. Under LMC 6.02.010, an animal is considered "at large" if it is off the owner's property and not on a leash. LMC 6.04.010 prohibits animals at large on public property and authorizes impoundment, except in designated off-leash areas such as the Fort Steilacoom Off-Leash Dog Park. Animal control is provided by City of Lakewood Animal Services (covering Lakewood, DuPont, and Steilacoom), with shelter services contracted to the Tacoma-Pierce County Humane Society. State law (RCW 16.08.040) imposes strict liability on dog owners for bites in public places.
View full Lakewood rules →Tacoma, WA
Pierce County
Tacoma requires dogs to be on a leash or under physical control when off the owner's property. Dogs must be licensed with Pierce County. Off-leash areas are available at designated dog parks.
View full Tacoma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Lakewood | Tacoma |
|---|---|---|
| Leash Required | Yes, off owner's premises | Off owner's property |
| Definition | LMC 6.02.010 ("at large") | - |
| Public Property | LMC 6.04.010 | - |
| State Liability Statute | RCW 16.08.040 (strict liability for bites) | - |
| Designated Off-Leash Area | Fort Steilacoom Off-Leash Dog Park | - |
| Off-Leash Park Address | 8804 Dresden Ln SW | - |
| Off-Leash Park Size | 22 acres, fenced | - |
| License Required | Dogs/cats over 8 weeks (LMC 6.06) | - |
| License Renewal Deadline | Feb 28 (expires Dec 31) | - |
| Animal Control Phone | (253) 830-5010 | - |
| Shelter | Tacoma-Pierce County Humane Society (contracted) | - |
| License | - | Pierce County dog license required |
| Enforcement | - | Tacoma-Pierce County Humane Society |
| Dog Parks | - | Rogers Park and others |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Lakewood FAQ
Does Lakewood require dogs to be on a leash?
Yes. Under LMC 6.02.010 and 6.04.010, a dog is considered "at large" any time it is off the owner's premises and not under restraint by a leash or chain held by a competent person. Animals at large on public property may be seized and impounded. The only exception is areas the City has formally designated as off-leash, principally the fenced Fort Steilacoom Off-Leash Dog Park.
Where can my dog be off leash in Lakewood?
Inside the fenced Fort Steilacoom Off-Leash Dog Park at 8804 Dresden Ln SW, which has a 22-acre main area and a separate small-dog section. The rest of Fort Steilacoom Park, including the paved trail around Waughop Lake, is not off-leash, and the City has reminded owners that animal control and police enforce leash laws there.
What happens if my dog is picked up at large in Lakewood?
Under LMC 6.04.010 the dog can be seized and impounded. Lakewood contracts with the Tacoma-Pierce County Humane Society for sheltering, so the dog will be held there. Owners typically pay impound, boarding, and license fees before reclaim. Repeat at-large incidents or dogs that bite, chase, or threaten people can lead to misdemeanor charges and possible dangerous-dog designation under LMC 6.10 and RCW 16.08.
Do I have to license my dog in Lakewood?
Yes. LMC Chapter 6.06 requires all dogs and cats over 8 weeks old to be licensed. Licenses expire December 31 each year and must be renewed by February 28. Licensing is administered through PetData, Inc. at (866) 594-1283; failure to license is a separate civil infraction.
Tacoma FAQ
Do dogs have to be on a leash in Tacoma?
Yes, when off your property. Dogs must also be licensed through Pierce County. Off-leash dog parks are available at designated locations.
Where are off-leash dog parks in Tacoma?
Rogers Off-Leash Dog Park is a popular option, along with other designated parks. Check Tacoma Metro Parks for the current list.
How do I license my dog in Tacoma?
License through the Tacoma-Pierce County Humane Society. Proof of current rabies vaccination is required.
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