What are Sacramento’s dog leash laws? Not following rules could cost owners hundreds
Sacramento is a dog town — from dog-friendly restaurants to annual dog festivals — with a long history of tension between its humans and furry friends.
Some residents draw the line at unleashed pups.
The most common complaint county animal control officers receive is off-leash dogs inside public parks that are not designated dog parks, said spokeswoman Luna Anona with the county’s Bradshaw Animal Shelter in a 2023 interview.
Here’s what the rules say — and how much you could be fined:
Editor’s note: Information in this story was originally published in April 2023, including interviews. It has been updated for style and clarity.
Sacramento dog leash rules
The laws in both the city of Sacramento and Sacramento County are similar: Dogs must be restrained.
Regardless of how well-trained your dog is, you could receive a fine from Sacramento if caught without a leash, and depending on where you are — the price could be hefty.
Dog leash rules in unincorporated county
Dog owners found with unleashed pups in public within the unincorporated areas will be educated on the law and asked to restrain them by Sacramento County animal control officers, Anona said in an email to The Bee.
The officer will offer a spare leash if the owner doesn’t have one, she said in an email to The Bee.
If the owner refuses to leash their dog, the pup will be considered a “dog at large” or an unrestrained domesticated dog. The officer could issue the owner a $50 fine.
Even retractable leashes shouldn’t exceed 6 feet in length, according to county law.
3 dogs and 7 cats: What’s behind Sacramento’s seemingly arbitrary pet limit?
City of Sacramento dog leash rules
Dog owners caught with unleashed pups in the city of Sacramento could receive a $500 ticket, said spokesman Ryan Hinderman with the city’s Front Street Animal Shelter in an email to The Bee last year.
City animal care officers will “typically” have a conversation with the owner and do a history check for prior infractions.
The owners could walk away with anything from a warning to a ticket that costs hundreds of dollars.
Unlike the county’s 6-feet leash limit, city law says leashes cannot exceed 8 feet in length and must be strong enough to prevent the dog from running away from its owner.
Where can I take my dog for off-leash exercise in Sacramento?
Dogs are required to be on a leash even within Sacramento’s regional parks, according to Sacramento law, and county animal control officers routinely patrol for violators.
Pups can do as many outdoor zoomies as their hearts desire within Sacramento’s designated off-leash areas.
Is there a Sacramento dog park missing from the list? Kindly email servicejournalists@sacbee.com
Check these dog park rules from the city of Sacramento before you go:
Dog owners are responsible for their animals and must clean up after them.
Dogs are only allowed off-leash within the designated area.
Dogs must wear a collar with their license.
Aggressive dogs must be removed by their owners.
Children under 14 must be with an adult.
Female dogs in season are not allowed.
There must be a handler for every two dogs brought into the park.
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