Dog Leash Laws: Santa Rosa vs Sonoma

Do dogs need to be leashed in Santa Rosa?

Yes. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet in all public areas except designated off-leash dog parks.

Where can my dog go off-leash?

Santa Rosa has designated dog parks where off-leash play is permitted. Check the city Parks Department for locations.

Do I have to leash my dog in unincorporated Sonoma County?

Yes. Sonoma County Code §5-115 requires dogs in any public street or public place to be restrained by a substantial leash. The leash must be held by someone competent to control the dog.

What is the leash length in Sonoma County Regional Parks?

Section 20-8 of the County Code sets a maximum leash length of 6 feet in all Sonoma County Regional Parks, and the dog must remain under immediate control at all times.

Are there any off-leash exceptions in Sonoma County?

Section 5-115 allows three narrow exceptions: dogs assisting a peace officer, dogs assisting an owner hunting on private property with the landowner's consent, and dogs in a recognized training class or competition under the control of a trainer.

Where do incorporated cities like Santa Rosa fit in?

Cities have their own leash and animal codes (Santa Rosa Title 7, Petaluma Title 9, Healdsburg Title 6, Windsor Chapter 4). Sonoma County Animal Services contracts with several cities for enforcement, applying the city's code within city limits.