Georgia Statewide Rule
Georgia Responsible Dog Owner Law and Leash Rules
Key Facts
- Governing Statute
- O.C.G.A. 4-8-20 to 4-8-32
- Vicious Dog Penalty
- Felony if serious injury
- Local Leash Rules
- Set by cities/counties
- Muzzle Required
- Vicious dogs off property
Summary
Georgia has no statewide leash law but the Responsible Dog Owner Law sets statewide standards for dangerous and vicious dogs, preempting some local classification rules.
It shall be unlawful for an owner of a dangerous dog to permit the dog to be off the owner's property unless: (1) The dog is restrained by a leash not to exceed six feet in length and is under the immediate physical control of a person capable of preventing the dog from engaging any other human or animal when necessary; (2) The dog is contained in a closed and locked cage or crate; or (3) The dog is working or training as a hunting dog, herding dog, or predator control dog.
Full Breakdown
The Georgia Responsible Dog Owner Law (O.C.G.A. 4-8-20 through 4-8-32) establishes uniform statewide procedures for classifying dangerous and vicious dogs, owner registration, secure enclosure requirements, and liability insurance for vicious dogs. While leash requirements themselves are set by counties and cities, the state mandates that dogs classified as dangerous or vicious be confined indoors or in a secure enclosure and leashed and muzzled when off the owner's property. Owners of vicious dogs face stricter requirements.
Violations & Penalties
Violations can result in misdemeanor charges, fines up to $1,000, dog impoundment, and felony charges if a vicious dog seriously injures a person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Georgia have a statewide leash law?
What makes a dog 'vicious' under Georgia law?
Sources
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