Anti-Chaining Laws

Bloomington, Indiana
December 23, 2005

This ordinance prohibits the tethering of animals for more than 10 continuous hours and for more than 12 total hours in any 24-hour period or for any period of time in conditions that threaten the health or well-being of the animal.

Chapter 7.36.050 General animal care.

(f) No chain or tether shall weigh more than 1/8 of the animal’s body weight.

(g) Any chain or tether shall be at least ten (10) feet in length and have swivels on both ends.

(h) Any chain or tether must be attached to a properly fitting buckle-type collar or harness worn by the animal. Choke collars and pinch collars are prohibited for purposes of tethering an animal to a stationary object or cable run. A person may not wrap a chain or tether around an animal’s neck. A chain or tether used to restrain an animal must, by design and placement, be unlikely to become entangled.

(i) It shall be unlawful for the owner/guardian of any animal to keep or maintain the animal on a tether for a period of more than ten (10) continuous hours and no more than twelve (12) hours in any twenty-four (24) hour period, or for any duration under conditions, which threaten the health, or well being of the animal.

Floyd County, Indiana

ss. A-O.00 Restraint.

2. For dogs and puppies, RESTRAINT shall mean restricted to the premises of the owner and confined in a secure enclosure as previously defined, or accompanied by the owner and under his/her direct control.

a) Any tethering system employed in place of a fence shall not allow the dog or puppy to leave the owner’s property. The chain or tether must not be made of rope, twine, cord or similar material that can easily be cut or chewed through. Any tethering system shall not be acceptable for any dog declared dangerous.

b) No chain or tether shall weigh more than 1/8 of the animals body weight.

c) Any chain or tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the animal as defined in this ordinance. A chain, choke or pinch collar shall not be utilized for tethering purpose.

d) No dog shall be chained or tethered that has not been spayed or neutered.

e) Spayed or neutered dogs may not be chained or tethered for more than 10 continuous hours in any 24-hour period. Dogs may not be chained or tethered at all between sunset or sunrise.

Fort Wayne, Indiana
December 11, 2007

Dogs may not be tethered between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., and unaltered dogs may not be tethered at all.

§ 91.021 FASTENING ANIMALS WITH ROPE OR CHAIN; CHOKER COLLAR.
(F) Tethering. It shall be unlawful:
(1) For any dog to be tethered between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
(2) To tether any unsterilized dog for any period of time.
(3) To tether or confine a dog at a vacant structure or premises for any purpose when it is not monitored by an adult who is present at the property for the duration of such tethering or confinement.
(4) To tether a dog under six months of age.
(5) For more than three dogs to be tethered simultaneously at the same residence.
(6) To have contact between tethered dogs.
(7) For tethered dogs to be within three feet of another person’s property, public thoroughfare, and/or right-of-way.
(8) To tether a dog without access to adequate shelter at all times.
(G) Multiple tangling during tethering. If one or more dogs at a residence have required a response from Animal Control to untangle tethers more than two times in one year, it shall be a violation of this section.
 

Indianapolis, Indiana
2006

(a) Every owner or keeper of an animal kept in the consolidated city and county shall see that such
animal:
(1) Is kept in a clean, sanitary and healthy manner and is not confined so as to be forced to stand, sit
or lie in its own excrement; the person(s) responsible for animal(s) shall regularly and as often as
necessary to prevent odor or health and sanitation problems, maintain all animal areas or areas of
animal contact;
(2) Has food that is appropriate for the species in adequate amounts to maintain good health, fresh
potable drinking water where appropriate, shelter and ventilation, including quarters that are protected from excessive heat and cold and are of sufficient size to permit the animal to exercise
and move about freely;
(3) Shall not be tethered by use of a choke collar, or on any collar too small for the size and age of
the animal, nor by any rope, chain or cord directly attached to the animal's neck, nor by a leash
less than twelve (12) feet in length, nor by any tether or leash without swivels on both ends, or of
such unreasonable weight as to prevent the animal from moving about freely;
(4) Is protected against abuse, cruelty, neglect, torment, overload, overwork, or any other
mistreatment;
(5) Shall provide the reasonably necessary medical care, in addition to the required rabies
vaccination which shall include recommended vaccinations as required by accepted veterinary
standards, and if diseased or injured, or exhibiting symptoms of disease, receives proper care
and is segregated from other animals so as to prevent transmittal of the disease; and
(6) Is maintained in compliance with all applicable federal, state and local laws and all regulations
respecting animal care and control as are adopted by the city department of public safety and in
effect from time to time.
(b) It shall be unlawful for a person to beat, starve or otherwise mistreat any animal in the city, or to
fail to comply with any requirement of subsection (a) of this section.
(c) It shall be unlawful for any animal to be tethered between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.;
or to tether any un-sterilized dog for any period of time unless it is monitored by a competent adult for the duration of such tethering; or to tether or confine an animal at a vacant structure or premises for any purpose or time when it is not monitored by a competent adult who is present at the property for the duration of such tethering or confinement.

Marion, Indiana
May 2006

This ordinance prohibits the tethering of animals for more than 3 hours in any 24-hour period.

13-2000: (J) Proper Restraints. No animal shall be tied or fastened by any rope, chain, or cord that is directly attached to the animal's neck. Restrained animals must wear a properly fitted collar or harness made of leather or nylon, not of the choker type. This is not to prohibit the proper use of choker collars in the training of animals. The tying device shall be attached to the animal's collar or harness and shall be at least twelve (12) feet of free length. If a chain is used, such chain shall not have a total weight of more than one-eighth of the restrained animal's body weight. All animals tethered on the owner's property shall not be able to get closer than three (3) feet from any fence or from another tethered animal.

No animal will be tethered for more than three (3) hours during any 24 hour
period. Reasonable exercise will be provided for the animal by the owner. An animal in estrus shall not be restrained by rope, chain, or cord but shall be contained in a six-sided enclosure which prohibits the access of an animal of the opposite sex.

South Bend, Indiana
May 28, 2014

This ordinance provides specific restrictions on how an animal may be legally tethered. Dogs may not be tethered between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., and no unsterilized animals may be tethered.

Section 5-22. Fastening Animals with Rope or Chain; Choker Collar.

(a) No animal shall be hitched, tied or fastened by any rope, chain, or cord that is directly attached to the animal’s neck. If animals must be tied, hitched or fastened:
(1) The length of the rope, chain, or cord must be no less than three (3) times the length of the animal and of an appropriate length for the animal to move freely without risk of injury; and
(2) The weight of the rope, chain or cord is light enough to permit the animal to move freely without risk of injury; and
(3) The collar and rope, chain, or cord cannot cause the animal to choke; and
(4) A properly fitted collar or harness made of leather or nylon, not of the choker type is worn by the animal. This is not to prohibit the proper use of choker collars in the training of animals, and
(5) The tying device shall be attached to the animal’s leather or nylon collar or harness and must have a swivel device on both the anchor and collar end to prevent tangling; and
(6) The location of the anchor and the length of the rope, chain, or cord cannot cause the animal to become tangled, choke, or become injured; and
(7) The animal must have access to water and shelter at all times.
(b) No person shall chain their dog using an agitation collar, a collar exceeding 1 ½ inches wide for any dog under 60 pounds. Dogs over sixty (60) pounds shall not be tethered using a collar exceeding 2 inches (2″) in width.
(c) A person shall not tether an animal in a manner that permits the animal to leave the person’s property.

(d) Tethering. It shall be unlawful:
(1) For any dog to be tethered between the hours of 11:00 pm and 6:00 am.
(2) To tether any unsterilized dog for any period of time.
(3) To tether or confine a dog at an unattended structure of premises for any purpose when it is not monitored by an owner or guardian who is present at the property for the duration of such tethering or confinement.
(4) To tether a dog under six (6) months of age.
(5) For more than three (3) dogs to be tethered simultaneously at the same residence.
(6) To have contact between tethered dogs.
(7) For tethered dogs to be within three feed (3′) of another person’s property, public thoroughfare, and/or right-of-way.
(8) To tether a dog without access to adequate shelter at all times.
(e) Multiple tangling during tethering. If one (1) or more dogs at a residence have required a response from the Division of Animal Care and Control to untangle tethers more than two (2) times in one year, it shall be a violation of this Section.

Waterloo, Iowa
April 10, 2014

5-1B-8: TETHERING OF DOGS:
1.A dog may be restrained outdoors by tether, only on the property of the owner or caretaker of the dog, and only under the following conditions:
2.No tether may be attached to a fixed object unless the tether is so placed or attached that it cannot become entangled with another animal or object, and cannot extend over an object or edge that could result in strangulation of or injury to the animal, and shall be of sufficient length in proportion to the size of the animal, but no less than 10 feet in length, to allow the animal proper exercise and unlimited access to adequate feed, adequate water, and an outdoor facility that provides adequate protection from the elements. Such tethering shall be so located so as not to allow such animal to trespass on public property or upon private property belonging to others, nor in such manner as to cause harm or danger to persons, the tethered animal, or other animals.
3.The tether shall not weigh more than one-eighth of the animal’s body weight. Chains may not be used as tethers.
4.The tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the animal. Choke or prong collars are prohibited. The tether must have a swivel at both ends.
5.No animal may be restrained by tether for more than 8 hours in a 24-hour period. When the temperature falls below 30 degrees Fahrenheit, with wind chill factor applied, or when the heat index is at least 85 degrees, no animal may be restrained outdoors by tethering for more than 15 minutes without access to adequate feed, adequate water, and an outdoor facility that provides adequate protection from the elements. In any circumstances, a tethered animal must have access to an outdoor facility that provides adequate protection from the elements.

Arkansas City, Kansas
2007

Sec. 10-35. Restriction on dogs tethered or staked on private property.

No person shall tether or stake a dog for more than one continuous hour, except that tethering or staking of the same dog may resume after a hiatus of three continuous hours, for no more than four total hours on a tether or stake every 24-hour period.

Dodge City, Kansas
Dogs may not be chained or tethered for more than an hour at a time, and chains must be at least ten feet in length.

News Story

Chapter 2-108. Tethering of dogs restricted.

It shall be unlawful for any person to continuously tether a dog for more than one continuous hour, except that tethering of the same dog may resume after a hiatus of three continuous hours, for up to three hours total time on tether per day.
(a) For the purpose of tethering a dog, a chain, leash, rope or tether shall be at least ten feet in length.
(b) A chain, leash, rope, collaring device, tether, or any assembly or attachments thereto used to tether a dog shall not weight more than one-eighth of the animal’s body weight, or due to weight, inhibit the free movement of the animal within the area tethered.
(c) Dogs shall be tethered in such a manner as to prevent injury, strangulation, or entanglement on fences, trees, or other manmade or natural obstacles.
(d) It is unlawful to attach chains, ropes or other restraints implements directly to a dog without the proper use of a collar, harness, or other device designed for that purpose and made from a material that prevents injury to the animal.

El Dorado, Kansas

December 8, 2014

6.16.17 Tethering
1.It shall be illegal for any animal to be tethered or chained for more than one hour in the city limits. This ordinance requires that a dog must be untethered for three hours before being tethered again.
2.No person shall use any tether shorter than 10 feet in length.
3.No person shall use chains weighing more than 1/8 of the animal’s weight, or inhibiting the free movement of the animal.
4.No person shall tether a dog on a choke chain.
5.No person shall tether a dog without access to proper protection from the elements.
6.No person shall tether a dog in an open area where it can be teased by people or in an area that does not provide protection from attack by other animals.
7.No person shall tether an animal where no steps have been taken to prevent the surface from becoming wet and muddy in the event of precipitation.

Lawrence, Kansas
Dogs may not be chained for more than one hour at time.

News Story

Section 3-105 1 Picketing of Dogs: It is unlawful to attach chains or other tethers, restraints, or implements directly to a dog without the proper use of a collar, harness, or other device designed for that purpose and made from a material that prevents injury to the animal

No person shall (A) Continuously picket a dog for more than one continuous hour, except that picketing of the same dog may resume after a hiatus of three continuous hours, for up to three hours total time on picket per day, provided that for the purpose of picketing a dog, a chain, leash, rope or tether shall be at least 10 feet in length, or (B) Use a chain, leash, rope, collaring device, tether, or any assembly or attachments thereto to picket a dog that shall weigh more than 1/8 of the animal’s body weight, or due to weight, inhibit the free movement of the animal within the area picketed, or (C) Picket a dog in such a manner as to cause injury, strangulation, or entanglement of the dog on fences, trees, or other man made or natural obstacles.

Leavenworth, Kansas
June 13, 2006
This ordinance prohibits the tethering of dogs for more than two continuous hours or six total hours in any 24-hour period. A hiatus of three or more continuous hours must separate tethering sessions.

Sec. 18-44. Restriction on dogs leashed or tethered on private property.
Any dog leashed, or otherwise tethered on private property shall be restricted from movement closer than ten feet to the property line of the premises or any public sidewalk or right-of-way, unless such dog is muzzled or fenced in.
No person shall continuously tether or stake a dog for more than two continuous hours, except that tethering or staking of the same dog may resume after a hiatus of three continuous hours, for up to six hours total time on a tether or stake per day. Provided, that this provision shall not apply to businesses utilizing dogs for security during non-business hours.

Overland Park, Kansas
Some relief from chaining must be granted.

Chap. 6.09.025 A. No owner, keeper or harborer of an animal shall fail to provide the animal with adequate care, adequate food, adequate water, adequate health care, and adequate shelter. Such shelter should be clean, dry, and compatible with the condition, age and species. An animal must also have the opportunity for adequate daily exercise. This requires that an owner must offer some freedom from continuous chaining, stabling and tethering. All restraints placed on an animal must be such that it prevents the animal from being tangled or injured by the restraint. The area where animals are kept must also be kept free from unsanitary conditions and vermin-harboring debris.

Topeka, Kansas
January 18, 2005

This ordinance prohibits the tethering of dogs for more than one hour at a time and more than three total hours in any 24 hour period. Dogs must be taken off tethers for at least three continuous hours between tethering periods. Tethers must be at least 10 feet long, weigh no more than one-eighth of the dog’s weight, attach to a proper collar or harness, and may not inhibit the dog’s free movement or cause injury, strangulation, or entanglement. Dogs on tethers must have access to shade, shelter, and a tip-proof water supply. Dogs may not be tethered in areas open to teasing or attacks or where the ground becomes wet or muddy.

Section 18-4 (a): It shall be unlawful for any person to:

(5)(a) To attach chains or tethers, restraints or implements directly to a dog without the proper use of a collar, harness, or other device designed for that purpose and made from a material that prevents injury to the animal.
(b) No person shall:
(1) Continuously tether a dog for more than one (1) continuous hour, except that tethering of the same dog may resume after a hiatus of three (3) continuous hours, for up to three (3) hours total time on tether per day; provided that for the purpose of tethering a dog, a chain, leash, rope or tether shall be at least ten (10) feet in length; or

(2) Use a tether or any assembly or attachments thereto to tether a dog that shall weigh more than one eighth (1/8) of the animal’s body weight, or due to weight, inhibit the free movement of the animal within the area tethered; or

(3) Tether a dog on a choke chain or in such a manner as to cause injury, strangulation, or entanglement of the dog on fences, trees, or other man made or natural obstacles; or

(4) Tether a dog without access to shade when sunlight is likely to cause overheating, or appropriate shelter to provide insulation and protection against cold and dampness when the atmospheric temperature falls below forty (40) degrees Fahrenheit, or to tether a dog without securing its water supply so that it cannot be tipped over by the tether; or

(5) Tether a dog in an open area where it can be teased by persons or an open area that does not provide the dog protection form [sic] attack by other animals; or

(6) Tether an animal in an area where bare earth is present and no steps have been taken to prevent the surface from becoming wet and muddy in the event of precipitation.

Wellington, Kansas
April 15, 2008

Dogs may not be tethered for longer than two consecutive hours or more than four total hours within a 24-hour period. Certain requirements must also be met when a dog is tethered.

Wichita, Kansas
Dogs may not be chained for more than one hour at time or more than three hours a day.

Section 6.04.040 Control and protection of animals in general.

(d) It is unlawful for any person to:

(13) Continuously picket a dog for more than one continuous hour, except that picketing of the same dog may resume after a hiatus of three continuous hours, for up to three hours total time on picket per day.

(e) For the purpose of picketing a dog, a chain, leash, rope, or tether shall be at least ten feet in length.

(f) A chain, leash, rope, collaring device, tether, or any assembly or attachments thereto used to picket a dog shall not weigh more than one-eighth of the animals body weight, or due to weight, inhibit the free movement of the animal within the area picketed.

(g) Dogs shall be picketed in such a manner as to prevent injury, strangulation, or entanglement on fences, trees, or other man made or natural obstacles.

(h) It is unlawful to attach chains or other tether restraint implements directly to a dog without the proper use of a collar, harness, or other device designed for that purpose and made from a material that prevents injury to the animal. (Ord. No. 45-784 § 1: Ord. No. 44-281 § 11)

Bowling Green, Kentucky
March 7, 2006

This ordinance prohibits the fixed-point tethering of a dog for more than one hour in any 24-hour period. No tether may weigh more than one-eighth of the dog’s body weight, be less than 10 feet long, or attach to anything other than a properly fitting collar or harness. Dogs may be tethered to a pulley or trolley system provided that it is at least 10 feet long and no more than 7 feet above the ground.

1. Chapter 5 (Animals) of the Code of Ordinances is hereby amended as follows:

5-1 ANIMAL CONTROL.

5-1.01 Definitions. As used in this Chapter:

“Confinement” shall mean:

b. Puppies and dogs:

1. It is prohibited to exclusively restrain a dog or puppy by a fixed-point chain or tether. A fixed-point restraint may be used temporarily, but not to exceed one (1) hour in a twenty-four (24) hour period.

2. A dog may be exclusively restrained by a chain or tether provided that it is at least ten (10) feet in length and attached to a pulley or trolley mounted on a cable which is also at least ten (10) feet in length and mounted no more than seven (7) feet above ground level.

3. Any tethering system employed shall not allow the dog or puppy to leave the owner's property.

4. No chain or tether shall weigh more than 1/8 of the dog or puppy's body weight.

5. Any chain or tether shall be at least ten (10) feet in length and have swivels on both ends.

6. Any chain or tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the animal.

Glasgow, Kentucky
September 14, 2015

•90.03 HUMANE TREATMENT OF ANIMALS.

No owner shall fail to provide his or her dog or cat food, water, shelter, veterinary care to prevent suffering and humane care and treatment. Any owner of a dog or cat shall maintain a clean shelter and living area, which shall be kept free of accumulated waste so that the animal shall be free to walk or lie down without coming into contact with the waste. If any dog is tethered, it shall be by trolley or swivel system designed to prevent choking or tangling using a collar adjusted to fit the dog. The tether shall not be less than ten feet in length. No animal shall be tethered to a fixed point for longer than 12 hours in a 24-hour period. No tether shall weigh more than 1/18th of the dog or puppy’s weight. For purposes of this provision, the term TETHER is defined as a rope or chain that is used to restrict an animal, so that it will stay in a particular area.

Jefferson County, Kentucky
Chaining a dog for more than eight hours in a twenty-four hour period is prohibited.

1. For all animals except puppies and dogs, restraint shall mean on the premises of the owner, or if off the premises of the owner, under restraint by means of a lead or leash and under the control of a responsible person.
2. For puppies and dogs restraint shall mean on the premises of the owner and confined in a secure enclosure as previously defined, or accompanied by the owner on the owner’s property and under their direct control. If off the premises of the owner, the animal must be restrained by a lead or leash and under the control of a responsible person.
3. A dog or puppy may be restrained by a fixed point chain or tether for no more than eight hours in a twenty-four hour period.
4. A dog may be exclusively restrained by a chain or tether provided that it is at least ten feet in length and attached to a pulley or trolley mounted on a cable which is also at least ten feet in length and mounted no more than seven feet above ground level.
5. Any tethering system employed shall not allow the dog or puppy to leave the owners property.
6. No chain or tether shall weigh more than 1/8 of the dog or puppy's body weight.
7. Any chain or tether shall be at least ten (10) feet in length and have swivels on both ends.
8. Any chain or tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the animal.

(C)Any dog or cat which is impounded a second time for violation of restraint requirements within a twelve month period, the owner shall have the animal spayed or neutered within seven days of the redemption. Verification from the veterinarian performing the surgery shall be provided to the Division in writing within seven days of the surgery.

Louisville, Kentucky

Restraint

(2) For puppies and dogs restraint shall mean on the premises of the owner and confined in a secure enclosure as previously defined, or accompanied by the owner on the owner's property and under their direct control. If off the premises of the owner, the animal must be restrained by a lead or leash and under the control of a responsible person.

(a) It is prohibited to exclusively restrain a dog or puppy by a fixed-point chain or tether. A fixed-point restraint may be used temporarily but not to exceed one (1) hour in a twenty-four (24) hour period.

Baker, Louisiana
Dogs may not be chained for more than one hour at a time.

News Story

New Orleans, Louisiana
March 7, 2013

Dogs may be tethered to overhead running lines if certain requirements are met.

Sec. 18-2.1. Minimum standards of care for animals.

(b) Tethering. It shall be unlawful to tether a dog, except as follows. A dog may be restrained to an overhead running line, pulley, or trolley system under the following conditions:

(1) The tether is attached to the dog by means of a suitable, properly-fitted collar or harness not exceeding two inches in width. Choke or prong collars are not permitted. The tether must have a swivel on both ends.

(2) The tether provides access to adequate space for the dog to move about freely and cannot become entangled in such a way that would prevent the dog’s mobility or cause strangulation.

(3) At minimum, the tether should be four times the length of the dog from the tip of nose to the tip of the tail and the tether must allow the dog to lie down with its head flat on the ground and provide an additional 12 inches of slack.

(4) The tether is made of a durable, lightweight material that will not cause unnecessary stress on the dog. The tether shall not weigh more than three percent of the dog’s total body weight. Thick chains and other heavy lines are prohibited.

(5) The tether allows the dog to move at least 30 feet. Otherwise, the dog must be removed from the tether at least twice a day for exercise and/or socialization for a minimum of 60 minutes each day.

(6) The tether does not inhibit the animal’s access to shelter, shade, food and water; and

(7) Intact dogs may not be tethered under any circumstances.

(8) Dogs may not be tethered unsupervised between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

Denham County Louisiana
2009

Sec. 18-56. Dogs on cables or tethers; improper confinement.
(1) Dogs and cats shall not be chained, tied, fastened or otherwise tethered as sole means for confinement to property. The continuous maintenance of a dog on a chain, rope or other kind of tether is abnormally restrictive and stressful and often results in health and temperament problems. In most cases, such long term confinement will cause the dog to suffer unnecessarily.
(2) An individual found chaining or tethering an animal in violation of this section has 30 days to provide other means of confinement, as long as other conditions of confinement and care are being met. The grace period is null and void immediately if the owner, at any time during the grace period, is not in compliance with other applicable laws relating to animals.
(3) As an alternative means of restraint, an animal may be attached to a running cable line or trolley system providing that:
(a) Only one animal may be attached to each running cable line or trolley system;
(b) No animal should be attached to a running cable line or trolley system for more than 12 hours in a 24-hour period;
(c) Tethers and cables attaching the animal to the running cable line or trolley system must be made of a substance which cannot be chewed by the animal and shall not weigh more than 1/18 of the body weight of the animal tethered;
(d) The running cable line or trolley system must be at least 50 feet in length and mounted at least four feet and no more than seven feet about ground level;
(e) The length of the tether from the running cable line or trolley system to the animal's collar should allow access to the maximum available exercise area and allow the animal free access to required food, water, and shelter. The tether attaching the animal to the trolley system must allow the animal complete freedom to lie down or enter shelter without strain to the neck or body.
(f) Be attached to a properly fitted harness or collar not used for the display of a current rabies tag and other identification; and with enough room between the collar and the dog's throat through which two fingers may fit. Choke collars and pinch collars are prohibited for the purpose of tethering an animal to a running cable line or trolley system; and
(g) Be tethered at sufficient distance from any other objects to prohibit the tangling of the cable, from extending over or around an object to an edge that could result in injury of strangulation of the animal and be of sufficient distance from any fence so as to prohibit the animal access to the fence.
(Code 1987, § 4:109(1), (3)--(8) ; Ord. No. 09-13, art. I, 4-14-09)
 

Sec. 18-54. Minimum requirements for pens.
Dog and cat pens shall meet the following minimum requirements:
(1) The floors of pens shall be constructed of concrete or other suitable material. All pens shall be kept clean and sanitary and shall not be kept in a manner that would create a nuisance for the neighbors or neighborhood.
(2) Pens shall be sloped to a drain connected to a sanitary sewer or an approved individual sewerage system.
(3) Pens shall be equipped with a curb at least three inches high around the perimeter. The top of the curb shall be at such elevation that the surrounding surface water cannot drain into the pen.
(4) Pens shall be provided with a hose bibb and water under pressure.
(5) All dog pens shall be hosed down, thoroughly cleaned and disinfected as often as needed and in no case less than once a day.
(6) Newly constructed or replacement dog pens shall be located a minimum of ten feet from the nearest property line. Furthermore, any newly constructed or replacement pen shall be located a minimum of 50 feet from any residence other than that of the owner, unless the lot size or configuration would make this unworkable.
(7) Any dog confined within a pen must have an adequate space for exercise based on a dimension of at least 100 square feet. An additional 50 square feet per dog shall be added if more than one dog will be in the pen.
(8) The pen shall be sufficient height as to prevent the dog from escaping.
(9) The top of the pen shall be covered with materials to provide shade, and protection from the elements, and shall not hold water in the event of rain. Dog houses are required in the pen to protect each animal from rain and cold blowing in.
(10) Any dog confined to a pen shall be provided with adequate exercise.

Shreveport, Louisiana

May 24, 2016

Sec. 14-16. – Owner’s responsibilities.

(4) Owners of dogs and cats shall be responsible for compliance with the following:

(d) It shall be the responsibility of the owner to confine outside animals in an enclosed area. The primary enclosure should contain a minimum of 48 square feet (six feet by eight feet) per animal. There shall be no tethering of animals with chains, cables, ropes or any other such device in lieu of a proper enclosure. Outside animals that reside in a neighborhood with fencing restrictions must be kept inside or confined in an outside kennel with the minimum square footage as stated in this subsection. Any animal found in violation will be seized. The owner will have five days to correct the discrepancy or the animal will become the property of CPAS. Whether or not the animal is redeemed, the owner will be responsible for all fees. Whoever is found to be guilty of failing to provide the proper enclosure shall be fined not less than $250.00 nor more than $500.00 or serve five days in jail.

(9) Minimum requirements for dog and cat pens.

(b) Tethering as a secondary means of restraint to a proper enclosure. As a secondary means of restraint in a proper enclosure, an animal may be attached to a running cable line or trolley system providing that:

1) Subsection (d)(8) of this part is complied with.
2) A running cable line or trolley is set inside a proper enclosure.
3) Only one animal may be attached to each running cable line or trolley system.
4) This device must provide for humane, unrestrained range of movement for the animal [in order] to ensure that the animal is not exposed to hazard or injury and shall not prevent the animal from having food, water, shelter, adequate ventilation, [or] protection from the elements.
5) Tethers and cables attaching the animal to the running cable line or trolley system must be made of a substance which cannot be chewed by the animal.
6) No animal may be attached to a running cable line or trolley system for more than 15 hours in a 24-hour period.
7) The tether must be attached to a properly fitted harness or non-choke collar that weighs no more than one-eighth of the animal’s body weight. The running line must be at least ten feet in length and provide the animal with a minimum of 64 square feet of space to freely move about.
8) The area must be kept free from unsanitary conditions and vermin-harboring debris.
9) The dog may not be tethered outside during periods of extreme weather, including extreme heat or near-freezing temperatures, thunderstorms, tornadoes, tropical storms or hurricanes.
10) While participating in training sessions for hunting or competitive events, dogs shall be tethered with leashes of a minimum of ten feet. The tether must allow the dog ample room to sit, lay down and turn around. Water shall be provided at all times. No dogs shall be left unsupervised by the responsible party when tethered for these purposes.

Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana
July 9, 2014

Dogs may not be tethered to stationary objects. Trolley systems may be used.

Sec. 5-9.1. Tethering prohibited; exception.
1.Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, it shall be unlawful for any person owning or keeping a dog to leave a dog tethered while unsupervised as a means of confinement.
2.A dog may be tethered to a running line, pulley, or trolley system in accordance with all of the following specifications:1.Only one dog shall be attached to a tether at one time;
2.The minimum length of the trolley line shall be 15 feet;
3.The tether line shall weigh no more than 5% of the dog’s body weight and be made of a substance which cannot be damaged by the dog;
4.The dog shall be fitted with an appropriate harness or buckle-style collar properly fitted with room enough for two fingers to fit between the collar and the dog;
5.The use of pinch, weighted, or choke collars is prohibited;
6.The clamp of proper size and durability shall connect the dog’s harness to the tether line and a swivel of proper size and durability shall connect the tether line to the trolley line;
7.The trolley system shall maintain the dog’s freedom of movement and freedom from entanglement, and it shall allow access to food, water, shelter, and shade;
8.Both ends of the trolley line shall be attached to the stationary objects which cannot be moved by the dog;
9.All parts of the trolley line shall be situated at least 5 feet away from any fence to prevent strangulation;
10.The dog shall be at least four months old;
11.The dog shall be neutered/spayed, unless the dog is tethered within another secured enclosure as a primary means of restraint;
12.Under no circumstances shall a female dog in estrus be restrained by a trolley system without direct supervision by the owner or attendant;
13.No dog shall be tethered to a trolley system between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.

3.Any person violating this Section shall be guilty of improper tethering of a dog and fined $100.00 for a first offense and $200.00 for any second and subsequent offense.
4.Any person violating this section three or more times within the span of the 12-month period shall be charged with the crime of animal neglect as provided in Section 5-19.

Carroll County, Maryland
2006

A. The owner of a dog shall keep the dog under restraint or effective control at all times.

B. The owner of an animal shall prevent the animal, except a cat, from leaving the owner's property unattended or unrestrained.

C. The owner of a dog shall not tie, chain, cable or in any way tether a dog outside for more than 12 hours a day (and at no time between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.).

D. A tether to confine a dog shall be a minimum of 4½ times the length of the dog (nose to tail base) and under no circumstances less than 10 feet long.

E. The tether shall have swivels at both ends to prevent kinking and knotting. The area covered shall be maintained so that the tether cannot become entangled and positioned so that the dog cannot wrap the tether around posts, trees, debris or hang by jumping a fence or guardrail.

F. The owner of animal(s) that are fenced shall erect fencing normally considered suitable for the species and type of animal to be contained. Fencing shall be appropriate so as to keep the intended animals restrained within its boundaries. Fencing shall be monitored, well maintained and kept in good repair. In the case of a dog, if the owner utilizes an "invisible fence" to restrain a dog it may only be used if it consistently and effectively restrains the dog and is appropriate to be used for the dog in question. No aggressive dog may be restrained behind an "invisible fence".

G. All areas where animals are confined shall be maintained so as to provide a safe and healthy environment for the animals within the confinement.

Frederick County, Maryland

October 2008
http://www.amlegal.com/nxt/gateway.dll/Maryland/frederickco_md/frederickcountymarylandcodeofordinances?f=templates$fn=default.htm$3.0$vid=amlegal:frederickco_md

§ 1-5-26. PROPER RESTRAINT, SHELTER, PROTECTION AND CARE FOR DOGS.

(A) Restraint requirement.
(1) It shall be unlawful for any person to tether, fasten, chain, tie, restrain or cause a dog to be fastened, chained, tied or restrained to any stationary or inanimate object by means of a rope, chain, strap or other physical restraint for the purpose of confinement for more than ten hours, cumulatively in any 24-hour period.
(2) The dog must be tethered by a non- choke type collar or a body harness to a tether that is at least four times the body length of the dog, measured from the dog's nose to the back of the hindquarters, or at a minimum be ten feet in length, and which the tether is free from entanglement.
(3) The tether shall have swivels at both ends and all areas of confinement shall be maintained as to provide a safe and healthy environment for the dog.
(4) An individual found chaining or tethering an animal in violation of this section has 30 days to provide other means of confinement, as long as other conditions of confinement and care are being met. The grace period is null and void immediately if the owner, at any time during the grace period, is not in compliance with other applicable laws relating to animals.
(5) Individuals who do not comply within the 30-day grace period are subject to fines and penalties stipulated in this chapter.

(B) Shelter and outdoor enclosure requirements.
(1) Proper shelter, including protection from the weather and elements, shall be provided at all times. The shelter for a dog shall have a weatherproof roof, enclosed sides, a doorway, and a solid floor raised at least two inches above the ground. No interior surfaces shall be metal. The shelter shall have an entryway that the dog can easily enter and sufficient in size for a dog to stand, turn around, lie down, and exit in a natural manner. The shelter shall have adequate ventilation and protection from temperature extremes at all times.
(2) Bedding, such as wood shavings, straw or other material, shall be provided in sufficient quantity for insulation. Bedding shall be kept dry.
(3) Shade, separate from the shelter, either natural or manmade, shall be available at all times to a tethered dog, or a dog confined to an outdoor enclosure.
(4) Any dog confined within an outdoor enclosure must have adequate space for exercise. A minimum of 100 square feet is required. Dogs over 75 pounds must have an additional 50 square feet. Seventy-five square feet is required for each additional dog kept within the same enclosed area.

(C) Care requirements.
(1) Any person owning or having care, control or custody of a dog shall provide daily food that is free from contamination and is of sufficient quantity and nutritive value to maintain the animal in good health.
(2) Potable water must be accessible to the dog at all times.
(3) The dog must receive care and medical treatment for injuries, parasites and disease, sufficient to maintain the dog in good health.
(4) Any outdoor area where a dog is confined must be kept free of excretions and contaminated materials and cleaned regularly.
(D) Penalties. A violation of this section may result in a civil citation pursuant to §1-5-53 of this chapter, or impoundment of the dog(s), or both.

(Ord. 08-24-500, 9-23-2008)

Montgomery County, Maryland
March 2011

This ordinance prohibits dogs from being tethered outside for more than two hours per day.

05.201.01.01 Tethering of Dogs.

The following conditions for the tethering of dogs are adopted under Section 5-201(b); Article II – Prohibited Conduct; Chapter 5, Animal Control; Montgomery County Code, 2005, as amended, and interpret State anti-cruelty provisions at Maryland Code, Criminal Law Article, Section 10-604(a), 2002, as amended and applied in Montgomery County pursuant to Section 5-201(a); Article II – Prohibited Conduct, Chapter 5, Animal Control; Montgomery County Code, 2005, as amended.

I. Definitions.
1.Director means the Director of the Animal Services Division or designee.
2.Sanitary means sanitary as defined in § 5-101 of the Montgomery County Code (1994), as amended.
3.Tether means attaching a dog to a stationary object or pulley run by means of a chain, rope, tether, cable, or similar restraint. Tether does not include the use of a leash to walk a dog.

II. Prohibited Conduct. A person must not tether a dog under circumstances that endanger its health, safety, or well being, including:
1.Tethering a dog longer than two hours cumulatively during any twenty-four hour period;
2.tethering a dog by any means other than a harness;
3.tethering a dog between the hours of eight p.m. and eight a.m. unless the Director grants a waiver based on extraordinary circumstances after determining that the proposed tethering will be safe and humane;
4.unattended tethering of a dog during a weather emergency, or a dog-control emergency declared by the Executive, the Director, or the County Health Officer,
5.using a tether that weighs more than 1/8 of the dog’s body weight;
6.using a tether that does not have a swivel attached on each end;
7.using a tether that is less than five times the length of the dog, as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail;
8.tethering that unreasonably limits a dog’s movement;
9.tethering under conditions where the dog or tether can become entangled on the tether or some other object;
10.tethering that restricts a dog’s access to suitable and sufficient food, clean water, and appropriate shelter;
11.tethering in unsafe or unsanitary conditions;
12.tethering that does not allow a dog to defecate or urinate in an area separate from the area where it must eat, drink, or lie down; or,
13.tethering that causes injury, stress, or demonstrable socialization problems.

III. It shall be unlawful for any person to tether, chain, fasten, tie, or otherwise restrain a cat to a house, tree, fence, or other stationary or immobile object.

IV. Failure to provide relief to a dog in distress when exposed to any of the conditions listed in subsection II is proof that the dog was improperly, i.e., cruelly, tethered.

V. Exception. Nothing in this regulation prohibits:
1.a regiment of restraint that the Director has approved for a particular training or working dog purpose; or
2.the temporary tethering of a dog incidental to its veterinary care and/or grooming, in accordance with professionally accepted standards.

VI. This regulation establishes requirements for tethering a dog humanely. Notwithstanding any other provision of this regulation, the particular circumstances or conditions of a dog otherwise tethered according to the requirements of this regulation are sufficient evidence of cruelty to constitute a violation of State or County law.

Amherst, Massachusetts

Prolonged Confinement of Dogs Outside
(A) Prolonged Chaining or Tethering of Dogs is Prohibited.
No person owning or keeping a dog in the town shall chain or tether a dog to a stationary object including but not limited to any structure, dog house, pole or tree for longer than eight (8) total hours in any 24-hour period. Any tethering employed shall not allow the dog to leave the owner/guardian’s or keeper’s property. The tether must be designed for dogs (e.g., logging chains and other lines or devices not for the purpose of tethering dogs may not be used). No chain or tether shall weigh more than one-eighth (1/8) of the dog’s body weight. Nothing in this section shall be construed as prohibiting a person from walking a dog on a hand-held leash.
No dog under the age of six (6) months shall be tethered outside for any length of time.

East Longmeadow, Massachusetts
May 1, 2006

This ordinance prohibits the outside confinement of dogs between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. and allows the confinement of dogs outside for more than six total hours in any 24-hour period only when certain conditions are met.

9.025 Prolonged Confinement of Dogs Outside

(A) Prolonged Chaining or Tethering of Dogs is Prohibited.
No person owning or keeping a dog in the town shall chain or tether a dog to a stationary object including but not limited to any structure, dog house, pole or tree for longer than six total hours in any twenty-four hour period. Nothing in this section shall be construed as prohibiting a person from walking a dog on a hand-held leash.

(B) Permissible Outside Confinement.
A person owning or keeping a dog in the town may confine such dog outside for longer than six total hours in a twenty-four hour period through the used of any of the following three methods: (1) A pen or secure enclosure, if the following conditions are met:
(a) The pen or secure enclosure has adequate space for exercise with a dimension of at least one-hundred square feet. Commercial dog kennels with pens intended for the temporary boarding of dogs are exempt from this requirement.

(b) The pen or secure enclosure is constructed with chain link or other similar material as determined by the Building Inspector, with all four sides enclosed.

(2) A fully fenced or otherwise securely enclosed yard wherein a dog has the ability to run but is unable to leave the enclosed yard.

(3) A trolley system or a tether attached to a pulley on a cable run, if the following conditions are met:
(a) Only one dog may be tethered to each cable run.

(b) The tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog, with enough room between the collar and the dog’s throat through which two adult fingers may fit. Choke collars and pinch collars are prohibited for the purposes of tethering a dog to a cable run.

(c) There must be a swivel on at least one end of the tether to minimize tangling of the tether.

(d) The tether and cable run must be at least ten feet in length and mounted at least four feet but not more than seven feet above ground level.

(e) The length of the tether from the cable run to the dog’s collar or harness must allow continuous access to water and appropriate shelter as described in paragraph (C) of this by-law. The trolley system or tether must be of appropriate configuration to confine the dog to the owner’s property, to prevent the trolley system or tether from extending over an object or an edge that could result in injury or strangulation of the dog; and to prevent the trolley system or tether from becoming tangled with other objects or animals.(C) Access to Water and Shelter.
Any person owning or keeping a dog in the town confined outside in accordance with Paragraph (B) of this section must provide the dog with access to water and an appropriate dog shelter. The dog shelter must allow the dog to remain dry and protected from the elements. Such shelter shall be fully enclosed on three sides, roofed, and have a solid floor. The entrance to the shelter shall be flexile to allow the dog’s entry and exit, and sturdy enough to block entry of wind and rain. The shelter shall be small enough to retain the dog’s body heat and large enough to allow the dog to stand and turn comfortably. The enclosure shall be structurally sound and in good repair. Suitable drainage must be provided so that water is not standing in or around the shelter.

(D) No Outside Confinement at Night.
No person owning or keeping a dog in the town may leave a dog chained, tethered or confined outside between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

Easthampton, Massachusetts
May 18, 2011

Section 11-18. Prolonged Chaining, Tethering, and Confinement of Dogs
a. Prolonged Chaining or Tethering of Dogs. No person owning or keeping a dog in the City shall chain or tether a dog for longer than 8 continuous hours during any twenty-four hour period. Nothing in this section shall be construed as prohibiting a person from walking a dog on a hand-held leash. It shall be lawful for a responsible party to tether a dog while outdoors when all of the following conditions are met:
1.The dog must be wearing a suitable collar (no pinch collars) when connected to the tether.
2.The tether must be appropriate to the age and size of the dog and be long enough to allow the dog ample movement.
3.The dog is tethered in such a manner as to prevent injury, strangulation, or entanglement.
4.The dog is not outside during a period of extreme weather. Arctic breeds and other dogs with a double-layered coat, bred to live in an arctic climate, may be out in suitable freezing temperatures.
5.The dog is always within reach of drinking water and has access to dry ground.
6.The dog is not sick or injured.
7.If there are multiple dogs, each dog is tethered separately.

Greenfield, Massachusetts

4.7.9.5 No person owning or keeping a dog shall permit such dog to be at large elsewhere than on the premises of the owner or keeper, except if it be on the premises of another person with the permission of such other person. Such owner or keeper of the dog, which is not on the premises of the owner, or upon the premises of another person with the permission of such other person shall restrain such dog with a chain or leash not exceeding eight (8) feet in length. No dog or puppy may be restrained by a fixed point chain or tether for more than eight (8) hours in a twenty-four (24) hour period. Any tethering employed shall not allow the dog or puppy to leave the owners or keepers property. No chain or tether shall weigh more than one-eighth (1/8) of the dog or puppy’s body weight. Any chain or tether used must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the animal. Exceptions:
1.the dog is attached to a leash held by a person who is capable of controlling the dog or puppy,
2.the dog is in a vehicle from which it cannot escape while the vehicle is driven, parked, or stopped,
3.the dog is not more than fifty (50) feet from a person whose commands it abides to,
4.the dog is within hundred (100) feet or within calling or whistling distance, mechanical or otherwise, for the purposes of hunting in an area where hunting is allowed and dogs are legally allowed for hunting purposes,
5.the dog or puppy is not annoying any human or domestic animal or trespassing on private property,
6.the dog is in a public area where dogs or puppies are allowed. These exceptions shall apply to public parks and recreational fields designated by the Town of Greenfield allowing dogs to be off leash.
 

Milton, Massachusetts
2007

D. 1. No dog shall be tethered to a stationary object for more than one (1) hour at a time.
2. Dogs shall be tethered to a stationary object with a tether which is manufactured specifically for dogs or which is made of a material with sufficient strength for that purpose, including without limitation coated steel cable. No dog shall be tethered to a stationary object with a material which may cause death or injury to a dog or which could become entangled around the body or limbs of a dog or could otherwise cause discomfort to a dog, including without limitation rope, clothesline or chain.
3. No dog shall be tethered to a stationary object with a tether which is less than five (5) times the length of the dog, measured from the tip of the dog’s nose to the tip of the dog’s tail.
4. No dog shall be tethered to a stationary object by a tether which is attached to a training collar on the dog’s neck which, if the tether became tangled, could tighten, causing death, injury or discomfort to the dog.

Provincetown, Massachusetts
November 8, 2010

13-2-7-8 UNLAWFUL TETHERING OF DOGS.38
(a)The following term shall have the following definition:
“Reasonable period” shall mean a period of time not to exceed a total of three hours in any 24-hour period, or a time that is otherwise approved by the animal control officer.
“Temporary task” shall mean a task that takes no longer than 30 minutes to complete.
“Tether” shall mean to fasten, chain, tie or otherwise restrain.
(b) No person shall tether, or cause a dog to be tethered, to a dog house, tree, fence, or any other stationary object.
(1) A dog shall not be tethered to any running line, pulley, or trolley system by means of a choke collar or pinch collar or prong collar or any other device that is not properly fitted to the dog or that is likely to cause injury to the dog.
(2) A dog shall not be tethered if the length of the tether is shorter than ten feet or five times the length of the dog as measured from the tip of the dog’s nose to the base of the dog’s tail, whichever is greater.
(3) A dog shall not be tethered in any manner that is likely to cause injury, strangulation or entanglement to the dog.
(4) A dog shall not be tethered if the dog does not have access to water, shade and dry ground.
(5) A dog shall not be tethered if it is visibly sick or injured.
(6) A dog shall not be tethered in the case of extreme weather conditions, including conditions in which the actual or effective outdoor temperature is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit; a heat advisory has been issued by a local or state authority jurisdiction; or a hurricane, tropical storm or tornado warning has been issued within the Town by the National Weather Service.
(7) A dog shall not be tethered if the owner or party responsible for the dog is not in visual range of the dog.
(c) Notwithstanding subdivision (b), an owner or person responsible for the dog may do any of the following:
(1) Tether a dog for a reasonable period. If there are multiple dogs, each dog is tethered separately.
(2) Tether a dog pursuant to the requirements of a camping or recreational area.
(3) Tether a dog no longer than is necessary for the owner or person responsible for the dog to complete a temporary task that requires the dog to be restrained.
(d) Any person who violates this bylaw shall be subject to a fine of $100 (one hundred dollars) for the first offense; $200 (two hundred dollars) for the second offense; and $300 (three hundred dollars) for the third and subsequent offenses. Each violation of this by-law shall be deemed to be a separate offense.

Springfield, Massachusetts
February 2015

•110-8. Animal care standards.
1.No person shall chain or tether a dog to a stationary object for longer than twelve consecutive hours. Any tethering employed shall not allow the dog to leave the Owner’s property. The tether shall be designed for dogs and no logging chains or other lines or devices not designed for tethering dogs shall be used. No chain or tether shall weigh more than one-eighth of the dog’s body weight. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit a person from walking a dog on a hand-held leash. No dog under the age of six months shall be tethered outside for any length of time.
1.A person owning or keeping a dog may confine such dog outside, subject to the restrictions in this section, through the use of any of the following methods:
2.inside a pen, if the following conditions are met:
3.the pen shall have adequate space for exercise with a dimension of at least one hundred square feet; provided, however, that commercial dog kennels with pens intended for the temporary boarding of dogs shall be exempt from this requirement;
4.the pen is constructed with chain link or other similar material as determined by the Building Inspector, with all sides enclosed; and
5.the minimum height of the fence shall be adequate to successfully confine the dog;
6.a fully fenced, electronically fenced or otherwise securely enclosed yard, wherein a dog has the ability to run but is unable to leave the enclosed yard; or
7.a trolley system or a tether attached to a pulley in a cable run, if the following conditions are met:
8.only one dog shall be tethered to each cable run;
9.the tether shall be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog, with enough room to fit two adult fingers between the collar and the dog’s throat through [sic]; provided, however, that a choke collar or pinch collar shall not be used to tether a dog to a cable run;
10.there shall be a swivel on at least one end of the tether to minimize tangling of the tether;
11.the tether and cable run must each be at least ten feet in length. The cable must be mounted at least four feet but not more than seven feet above ground level; and
12.the length of the tether from the cable run to the dog’s collar or harness shall allow continuous access to clean water and appropriate shelter at all times as described in section 110-8(C); and
13.the tether system shall be of appropriate configuration to confine the dog to the Owner’s property, to prevent the trolley system or tether from extending over an object to an edge that could result in injury to or strangulation of the dog and to prevent the trolley system or tether from becoming tangled with other objects or animals.

Battle Creek, Michigan
October 4, 2005

CHAPTER 608
608.09 Cruelty to Animals

(a) No person shall cruelly treat or abuse an animal in any of the following ways:

(7) Confine an animal on a tether, unless the tether allows the animal access to suitable shelter and:

A. For dogs, the tether is at least ten feet in length; the tether and collar, harness or other type of collaring device when taken together weighs not more than one-eighth of the dog’s body weight and does not, due to weight, inhibit the free movement of the dog; the manner of tethering prevents injury, strangulation, or entanglement on fences, trees or other man-made or natural obstacles or objects; the collar, harness or any other type of collaring device being used is designed for that purpose and made from material that prevents injury to the dog; the period of tethering does not exceed one continuous hour, except that tethering of the same dog may resume after an hiatus of three continuous hours; and the dog is tethered no more than a total of three hours per day.

Dearborn, Michigan

August 13, 2013

Sec. 4-32. – Tethering.

It shall be unlawful for any person to:

(a) To attach chains or tethers, restraints or implements directly to a dog without the proper use of a collar, harness, or other device designed for that purpose and made from a material that prevents injury to the animal.

(b) No person shall:

(1) Continuously tether a dog for more than one continuous hour, except that tethering of the same dog shall resume after a hiatus of three continuous hours, for up to three hours’ total time on tether per day; provided that for the purpose of tethering a dog, a chain, leash, rope or tether shall be at least ten feet in length; or

(2) Use a tether or any assembly or attachments thereto to tether a dog that shall weigh more than one-eighth of the animal’s body weight, or due to weight, inhibit the free movement of the animal within the area tethered; or
(3) Tether a dog on a choke chain or in such a manner as to cause injury, strangulation, or entanglement of the dog on fences, trees, or other man made or natural obstacles; or
(4) Tether a dog without access to shade when sunlight is likely to cause overheating, or appropriate shelter to provide insulation and protection against cold and dampness when the atmospheric temperature falls below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, or to tether a dog without securing its water supply so that it cannot be tipped over by the tether; or
(5) Tether a dog in an open area where it can be teased by persons or an open area that does not provide the dog protection from attack by other animals; or
(6) Tether an animal in an area where bare earth is present and no steps have been taken to prevent the surface from becoming wet and muddy in the event of precipitation.

Detroit, Michigan
March 14, 2017

Sec. 6-2-2. Dog restraint; prolonged tethering prohibited under certain circumstances.
(c) No owner of a dog shall:
(1) Continuously tether a dog for more than three hours per day;
(2) Tether a dog using a tether made of anything but a coated steel cable at any length less than three times the length of the dog as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail;
(3) Use a tether or any assembly or attachments that amount to more than 10% of the dog’s weight or that significantly inhibit the movement of the dog within the tethered area;
(4) Attach a dog to a tether by means of any implement other than a buckle-type collar or harness, so as to risk injury, strangulation, or entanglement of the dog on fences, trees, or other obstacles;
(5) Tether a dog without access to shade when sunlight is likely to cause overheating or without access to appropriate shelter for insulation and protection against cold and dampness when the atmospheric temperature falls below forty degrees Fahrenheit;
(6) Tether a dog without securing its food and water source to prevent its being tipped over or spilled by the tether;
(7) Tether a dog in an open area that does not provide the dog protection from attack from people or other animals;
(8) Tether a dog in an area composed entirely of bare earth subject to becoming wet and muddy in the event of precipitation, and without any dry surface area for cover or protection;
(9) Tether a dog under four months old;
(10) Tether more than one dog to a single tether;
(11) Tether a dog to a stationary object that would allow the dog to come within five feet of any property line; or
(12) Tether a dog without a swivel attached or equipped on both ends.

Southgate, Michigan
July 2, 2014

Dogs may not be tethered for more than three consecutive hours, and tethers must be made of coated steel cable. This ordinance also specifies basic safety requirements for tethering.

Section 615.05 Animal Care

(12) Tethering of dogs
(a) Tethering means the practice of securing a dog to a stationary object by means of a metal chain or coated steel cable or other similar means for keeping a dog restrained in its movement. Tethering does not mean walking a dog on a leash, or for temporary grooming, or other professional service.
(b) It shall be unlawful for a person to:
(1) Continuously tether a dog for more than three hours during any twenty-four hour period; or
(2) Tether a dog on a tether made of anything but coated steel cable; or
(3) Use a tether or any assembly or attachments there to tether a dog that shall weigh more than ten percent (10%) of the animal’s body weight, or due to weight, inhibit the free movement of the animal within the area tethered; or
(4) Tether a dog on anything except a buckle type collar or harness. It is unlawful to tether a dog on a choke chain or around the dog’s neck, or tethered to training collars such as choke or pinch type collars, or in such a manner as to cause injury, strangulation, or entanglement of the dog on fences, trees, or other man made or natural obstacles; or
(5) Tether a dog without access to shade when sunlight is likely to cause overheating.
(6) Tether a dog and fail to provide appropriate shelter to provide insulation and protection against cold and dampness when the atmospheric temperature falls below 40 degrees Fahrenheit; or
(7) Tether a dog without securing its food and water supply so that it cannot be tipped over by the tether; or
(8) Tether a dog in an open area where it can be teased by persons or an open area that does not provide the dog protection from attack by other animals; or
(9) Tether a dog in an area composed entirely of bare earth subject to becoming wet and muddy in the event of precipitation, and without any dry surface area or cover for protection; or
(10) Tether a dog less than four (4) months of age; or
(11) Tether more than one dog to a single shelter; or
(12) Tether a dog to a stationary object which would allow a dog to come within five (5) feet of any property line; or
(13) Tether a dog without a swivel attachment on both ends; or
(14) Tether a dog on a tether more than 10 feet in length.
(c) The animal control officer, or his/her designee, may in his/her discretion temporarily order a more restrictive tethering requirement if circumstances require and it is not detrimental to the health, safety, or welfare of the dog

Trenton, Michigan
February 19, 2013

Section 14-120 Tethering of Dogs

a) Tethering means the practice of securing a dog to a stationary object by means of a metal chain or coated steel cable for keeping a dog restrained in its movement. Tethering does not mean walking a dog on a leash, or for temporary grooming, or other professional service.
b) It shall be unlawful for a person to:
1) Continuously tether a dog for more than three hours per day;
2) Tether a dog on a tether made of anything but a coated steel cable more than (10) feet in length;
3) Use a tether or any assembly or attachments thereto to tether a dog that shall weigh more than ten percent (10%) of the animal’s body weight, or due to weight, inhibit the free movement of the animal within the area tethered; or
4) Tether a dog on anything except a buckle-type collar or harness, or tethering on a choke chain or around the dog’s neck, or tethered to training collars such as choke or pinch-style collars, or in such a manner as to cause injury, strangulation, or entanglement of the dog on fences, trees, or other man made or natural obstacles; or
5) Tether a dog without access to shade when sunlight is likely to cause overheating, or appropriate shelter to provide insulation and protection against cold and dampness when the atmospheric temperature falls below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, or to tether a dog without securing its food and water supply so that it cannot be tipped over by the tether; or
6) Tether a dog in an open area where it can be teased by persons or an open area that does not provide the dog protection from attack by other animals; or
7) Tether a dog in an area composed entirely of bare earth subject to becoming wet and muddy in the event of precipitation, and without any dry surface area or cover for protection.
8) Tether a dog less than four (4) months of age.
9) Tether more than one dog to a single tether.
10) Tether a dog to a stationary object which would allow a dog to come within five feet of any property line.
11) Tether a dog without a swivel attached and/or equipped on both ends.
c) The animal control officer, or his/her designee, may in his/her discretion temporarily order a more restrictive tethering requirement if circumstances require and it is not detrimental to the health, safety, or welfare of the dog.
d) Penalty. A person found responsible for violating section 14-120 shall be deemed responsible for a municipal civil infraction in the amount of $100 per day. Any person found liable for violating this section three or more times in a one year time span shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

Red Lake Falls, Minnesota

Subd. 1. Tethering. No animal shall be tethered as a primary means of stationary confinement. Stationary confinement by tethering shall be considered cruel treatment.
a. It shall be unlawful for any person owning or in possession of any animal to keep that animal chained, tied, fastened or otherwise tethered as a means of confinement and restraint to property for more than 10 continuous hours in a 24 hour period.

Subd. 2. That the animal, if not tethered, shall be within an enclosure that shall be constructed of material, and in a manner to minimize the risk of injury to the animal, and shall encompass sufficient usable space to keep the animal in good condition not smaller than a 100 square foot area and appropriate for the size or number of the animals.

Section 503.15. CARE OF PREMISES
Subd. 1. Clean shelter. Every structure and yard in which animals or fowl are kept shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition and free of all rodents, vermin, and objectionable odors. The interior walls, ceilings, floors, partitions and appurtenances of any such structure shall be whitewashed or painted as the health officer shall direct. Upon the complaint of any individual or otherwise, the health officer shall inspect such structure or yard and issue any such order as may be reasonably necessary to carry out the provisions of Part 4.

St. Paul, Minnesota
October 28, 2009

Sec. 200.16. Collars, leashes, tie outs.

(a) Collars. Collars may not exceed two (2) pounds in weight and must be made of durable material strong enough to hold the dog it is intended for. No collars are to be used other than for humane restraint. Collars may not be equipped with any type of sharp prongs on the inside of the collar or weighted devices that may cause injury or discomfort to the animal’s neck. Blunt pronged training collars are permitted if properly fitted and unaltered from the manufactured design.

(b) Leashes. Leashes must not exceed six (6) feet in length and may not exceed four (4) pounds in total weight.

(c) Chains, kennels, tethers and tie outs. Chains, tethers or tie outs must be at least three (3) times the length of the animal secured to it and may not exceed ten (10) pounds in total weight. Tie outs must be of durable material, strong enough to hold the animal it is intended for. Any animal secured with a tie out must be so in an area that would not allow the animal to become tangled around objects while allowing access to shelter and water. Tie outs must be placed in such a location as to inhibit the animal secured from reaching a public sidewalk, street or alley. The tie out must not allow the secured animal access to any neighboring property unless written permission has been obtained from the property owner. Animals restrained by a chain, tether, or other tie out device shall not be secured to any stationary object for more than two (2) consecutive hours, with at least a two-hour rest or relief period between each chaining, and no more than four (4) two-hour chaining periods in a twenty-four-hour period. Kennels and pulley/cable run systems shall be exempt from the two-hour restriction provided that:

(1) The length of the pulley system is at least twelve (12) feet, and the attached tether has a swivel at both ends;

(2) The height of the pulley system is mounted at least seven (7) feet above the ground;

(3) The space provided inside the kennel is at least thirty-two (32) square feet;

(4) At least one-third of the kennel floor must be made of solid material to provide relief from the ground conditions in inclement weather and the kennel must also provide proper shelter pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 343.30.

(5) The animal or animals confined or secured to a kennel or pulley system, are not confined in it or to it for more than ten (10) consecutive hours in a twenty-four-hour period.

“Stationary object” shall include, but not be limited to, a tree, embedded stake, pole or post, a house, garage, dog house, or other structure or railing.

“Solid material” shall mean cement, brick, durable plastic, or other suitable material other than wood.

Creve Coeur, Missouri
News Story

SECTION 205.220: TETHERING — PROHIBITED CONDUCT

It shall be unlawful for any owner or other person controlling or possessing any dog, cat or other animal to:

1. Leave a dog, cat or other animal tethered outdoors for eight continuous hours or for a total of twelve (12) hours in a twenty-four (24) hour period.

2. Tether a dog, cat or other animal except by means of a properly fitting harness or collar of nylon or leather construction and a tether in proportion to the size of the animal. The tether must be at least fifteen (15) feet in length with a swivel at both ends.

3. Tether a dog, cat or other animal outdoors under conditions where the animal or tether can become entangled on the tether, another animal or some other object or where the tether can restrict the animal’s access to suitable, edible and sufficient food, clean water (cool in summer and unfrozen in winter) and appropriate shelter.

4. Tether a dog, cat or other animal outdoors in unsafe or unsanitary conditions or when said tether does not allow the animal to defecate or urinate in an area separate from the areas where it must eat, drink or lie down.

5. Expose a dog, cat or other animal to any weather conditions that cause immediate imminent threat to the animal’s physical well-being.

O’Fallon, Missouri
December 9, 2010

SECTION 210.055: TETHERING, PROHIBITED CONDUCT
It shall be unlawful for any owner or other person controlling, possessing or having custody any dog or cat to:
1. Leave a dog or cat tethered outdoors for eight (8) continuous hours or for a total of twelve (12) hours in a twenty-four (24) hour period.
2. Tether a dog or cat except by means of:
a. A properly fitting harness or collar of nylon or leather construction which does not chafe or injure the animal, and
b. A tether in proportion to the size of the animal such that its weight and construction do not burden or encumber the animal. The tether must be at least fifteen (15) feet in length with a swivel at both ends.
3. Tether a dog or cat in such a manner that the animal cannot access adequate shelter while tethered.
4. Tether a dog or cat outdoors under conditions where the animal or tether can become entangled on the tether, another animal or some other object or where the tether can restrict the animal’s access to suitable, edible and sufficient food, clean water (cool in summer and unfrozen in winter) and appropriate shelter.
5. Tether a dog or cat outdoors in unsafe or unsanitary conditions or when the tether does not allow the animal to defecate or urinate in an area separate from the areas where it must eat, drink or lie down.
6. Expose a dog or cat to any weather conditions that cause immediate imminent threat to the animal’s physical well-being.
7. No person shall tether an animal on a choke, prong or pinch collar or tow chain or in such a manner as to cause injury, strangulation or entanglement of the animal on fences, trees or other manmade or natural obstacles.
8. No person shall tether an animal in an area where bare earth is present and no steps have been taken to prevent the surface from becoming wet and muddy in the event of precipitation.
9. No person shall leave an animal tethered outside between the hours of 10:00 P.M. and 6:00 A.M., except temporarily tethering outdoors for a time period not exceeding fifteen (15) minutes. (Ord. No. 5469 §1, 6-11-09; Ord. No. 5643 §1, 12-9-10)

Springfield, Missouri
November 17, 2015

Sec. 18-60 Tethering dogs.

(a) Any dog permitted to be kept within the City shall not be chained, tied, fastened or otherwise tethered to any stationary or inanimate object as a means of confinement and restraint to property.

(b) Exceptions:
(1) Tethering shall be allowed on rare occasions when it is necessary for the dog owner or custodian to complete a temporary task that requires the dog to be physically restrained but shall not be for more than a reasonable time.
(2) Tethering shall be allowed for short periods of time, not to exceed 30 minutes, for the purpose of the dog to relieve itself.
(3) When a dog is tethered as allowed in the above exceptions, the dog must be tethered by a non choke type collar or a body harness to a tether that is at least three times the body length of the dog, measured from the dog’s nose to the back of the hindquarters and which tether is free from any objects that could cause entanglement or strangulation. The tether shall be proportional to the size and weigh no more than one-eighth (1/8) of the dog’s body weight.
(4) When a dog is tethered as allowed in the above exceptions, any person having custody of such animal shall provide adequate shelter and adequate water for the dog, as defined in Sec. 18-1 of Springfield City Code. This section shall not apply to dogs used by law enforcement agencies in the performance of their duties, service dogs, or any facility in the city licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture, Missouri Department of Agriculture, or the Missouri Board of Veterinary Medicine.
(c) When riding outside the passenger compartment of a vehicle in transit or when tethered to a legally parked or otherwise situated vehicle, a dog must be secured by a non choke type collar or body harness, such that the dog cannot reach past the edge of any of the sides of the vehicle.
(d) Any person found guilty of a violation prescribed in this section shall, upon conviction thereof, be punished as provided by section 1-7, and 79 each and every instance of violation shall be a separate offense.

St. Louis, Missouri
2007

10.04.285 Tethering, confinement and treatment of dogs and cats on owner/guardian’s property.

A. No owner/guardian or other person controlling or possessing any dog or cat shall leave a dog or cat tethered outdoors for ten (10) continuous hours or for a total of twelve (12) hours in a twenty-four-hour period.
B. No owner/guardian or other person controlling or possessing any dog or cat shall tether a dog or cat except by means of a properly fitting harness or collar of nylon or leather construction and a tether in proportion to the size of the animal. The tether must be at least fifteen (15) feet in length with a swivel at both ends.
C. No owner/guardian or other person controlling or possessing any dog or cat shall tether a dog or cat outdoors under conditions where the animal or tether can become entangled on the tether, another animal, or some other object or where the tether can restrict the animal’s access to suitable, edible, and sufficient food, clean water (cool in summer and unfrozen in winter), and appropriate shelter.
D. No owner/guardian or other person controlling or possessing any dog or cat shall tether a dog or cat outdoors in unsafe or unsanitary conditions or when said tether does not allow the animal to defecate or urinate in an area separate from the areas where it must eat, drink, or lie down.
E. No owner/guardian or other person controlling or possessing any dog or cat shall fail to provide the dog or cat with sanitary living conditions including shelter proper for the species and sufficient to protect the animal from extreme temperatures, wind, rain, snow and sun.
F. No owner/guardian or other person controlling or possessing any dog or cat shall maliciously and knowingly restrain a dog or cat using a metal chain, tether, or metal wire grossly in excess of the size necessary to restrain a dog or cat safely.
G. All dogs and cats shall be treated humanely and shall not be beaten, tormented, overworked, neglected or cruelly treated, except that reasonable force may be used to drive off vicious animals. No animal shall be induced or encouraged to perform through the use of chemical, mechanical, electrical or manual devices which may cause physical injury or suffering.

(Ord. 67799 § 2, 2007: prior: Ord. 66384 § 1 (part), 2004: Ord. 65206 § 1 (part), 2001.)

Bellevue, Nebraska
March 25, 2013

Sec. 6-22 Restraint – Dogs
a) It shall be unlawful for the owner of any dog within the city to fail to keep his dog securely restrained or otherwise confined in or upon his premises in an enclosure sufficient to contain the dog.
b) Each animal shall be separately tethered. That no animal shall be tethered outdoors in excess of 15 minutes at any one time unless an owner custodian or person responsible for the animal, 19 years of age or older, is present in the same yard in which the animal is tethered. The tether shall be at least five times the length of the animal’s body as measured from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, terminates at each end with a swivel, weighs no more than one-eighth of the animal’s weight, is free of tangles, prevents strangulation or injury, and prevents the animal from being within 15 feet from the edge of any public street or sidewalk. Provided, that if the tethering method is a trolley system, at least 15 feet in length and less than seven feet above ground, and meets the foregoing tether requirements, the animal may be tethered outdoors for up to one hour with an owner, custodian or person responsible for the animal, 19 years of age or older, is in the same yard in which the animal is tethered.
c) In addition to the sanctions which may be imposed by law, any person who fails to keep his dog securely restrained or otherwise confined as required by this section shall pay the following penalties:
(1) For the first violation, a penalty in the sum of $100.00
(2) For the second violation within 24 months of the first violation, a penalty in the sum of $205.00
(3) For the third violation within 24 months of the first violation, and each subsequent violation thereafter, a penalty in the sum of $500.00.
d) Such penalties shall be paid to the animal control authority and shall be used solely for enforcement activities
Section 2. This Ordinance shall take effect and be in full force from and after its passage, approval and publication as provided by law.

Omaha, Nebraska
September 30, 2008

Sec. 6-147. Restraint—Dog.
It shall be unlawful for the owner of any dog within the city to fail to keep his dog securely restrained or otherwise confined in or upon his premises in an enclosure sufficient to contain the dog.
Each animal shall be separately tethered. That no animal shall be tethered outdoors in excess of 15 minutes at any one time unless an owner, custodian or person responsible for the animal, 19 years of age or older, is present in the same yard in which the animal is tethered. The tether shall be at least five times the length of the animal’s body as measured from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, terminates at each end with a swivel, weighs no more than one-eighth of the animal’s weight, is free of tangles, prevents strangulation or injury and prevents the animal from being within 15 feet from the edge of any public street or sidewalk. Provided, that if the tethering method is a trolley system, at least 15 feet in length and less than seven feet above ground, and meets the foregoing tether requirements, the animal may be tethered outdoors for up to one hour with an owner, custodian or person responsible for the animal, 19 years of age or older, is in the same yard in which the animal is tethered.
In addition to the sanctions which may be imposed by law, any person who fails to keep his dog securely restrained or otherwise confined as required by this section shall pay the following penalties:
(a) For the first violation, a penalty in the sum of $100.00.
(b) For the second violation within 24 months of the first violation, a penalty in the sum of $250.00.
(c) For the third violation within 24 months of the first violation, and each subsequent violation thereafter, a penalty in the sum of $500.00.
Such penalties shall be paid to the animal control authority and shall be used solely for enforcement activities.

North Las Vegas, Nevada
February 17, 2010

6.12.070 – Tethering.
1. Except as otherwise provided in subsections 2. and 3. and NRS 574.210 to 574.510, inclusive, a person shall not restrain a dog:
(a) Using a tether, chain, tie, trolley or pulley system or other device that:
(1) Is less than twelve (12) feet in length;
(2) Fails to allow the dog to move at least twelve (12) feet or, if the device is a pulley system, fails to allow the dog to move a total of twelve (12) feet; or
(3) Allows the dog to reach a fence or other object that may cause the dog to become injured or die by strangulation after jumping the fence or object or otherwise becoming entangled in the fence or object;
(b) Using a prong, pinch or choke collar or similar restraint; or
(c) For more than fourteen (14) hours during a twenty-four-hour period.

Berkeley, New Jersey
April 27, 2015

•9-2.10 Failure to Provide Proper Care; Tethering.

B. Tethering of dogs.

(1) It is unlawful to chain or tether unaltered animals (dogs or cats that are unspayed or unneutered) in any manner and/or at any time within the Township.
(2) Altered animals (dogs or cats that have been spayed or neutered) may be tethered only under the following conditions:
(a) Tethers must allow the animal access to shelter, food and water and can be used only in an area where it will not be tangled around objects.
(b) Tethers must be at least 15 feet long, have a swivel on both ends, weigh no more than 1/8th of the dog’s weight and be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness.
(c) Tethers cannot inhibit the animal’s movement or cause injury, entanglement or strangulation.
(d) The tether must restrain the animal on the owner’s own property.
(e) Animals may be chained or tethered for no more than four consecutive hours, or six hours total hours in any twenty-four-hour period of time and never between sunset and sunrise.
(f) Animals may not be chained or tethered when temperatures exceed 85 degrees or fall below 32 degrees.

Camden, New Jersey
January 11, 2001

Animals may not be chained or tethered in any manner for more than two consecutive hours.
§ 210-45. Unlawful to chain or tether animals.

Animals shall not be chained, tied, fastened or otherwise tethered to dog houses, trees, stakes, poles, fences, walls, or any other stationary objects outdoors or indoors as a means of confinement for more than two consecutive hours in any twenty-four-hour period.

Cape May, New Jersey
December 5, 2012

Dogs may not be tethered for more than four consecutive hours or between sunset and sunrise. Unaltered dogs may not be tethered. Dogs may not be tethered unless the owner or responsible person is also on the property.

Sec. 145-8
E. Chaining or tethering dogs.
(1) Dogs must be able to move freely when chained or tethered. The size of the tether or chain must be a minimum of 15 linear feet and shall be tangle free. The placement of the chain or tether must be such that the dog is confined to the owner’s property. Dogs must be equipped with properly fitted harness or buckle type collars. The chain or tether must be made of light-weight, yet durable material.
(2) A dog house must be accessible to any dog that is chained or tethered.
(3) Dogs that are not spayed or neutered are not permitted to be chained or tethered for any period of time and must be in a completely enclosed yard or housed indoors.
(4) No dogs may be chained or tethered after dark (prior to sunrise or after sunset).
(5) No dogs may be chained or tethered for more than four consecutive hours.
(6) No dogs may be chained or tethered unless the owner or a person responsible for the dog is at the property.

East Brunswick Township, New Jersey
August 22, 2016

§ 83-14. J. Tethering of Dog

1) Dogs may be tethered under the following circumstances:
a. The tether must be at least fifteen (15) feet long and have an operative swivel on both ends, weigh no more than 1/8 of the dog’s weight and be attached to a properly fitted collar or harness.
b. The collar used for tethering may not be a choke chain collar, slip collar or prong collar.
c. The tethered dog must have easy access to drinking water, edible food, dry ground and adequate shade and/or shelter within the tethering area.
d. The tether may not be used in any area where it may be tangled around an object, such as, but not limited to, a tree, pole, fence or stake.
e. The tether cannot inhibit the movement of the animal’s limbs or cause injury, harm, entanglement or strangulation.
f. The tether must restrain the dog within the bounds of the owner’s or custodian’s property.
g. The tether must terminate no less than five (5) feet from any fence, pool, wall, vehicle, tree or roadway, or other object or obstruction upon which the animal might harm himself.
h. Dogs may be tethered for no more than six (6) consecutive hours in any twenty-four hour period of time.
i. If there are multiple dogs, each dog shall be tethered separately and in such a manner that the tethers shall not become entangled with each other.
j. No dog shall be tethered at a vacant structure or premises for any purpose when it is not monitored by a competent adult who is present at the property for the duration of such tethering.
k. No dog that is sick or injured shall be tethered.
l. No dogs shall be tethered between the hours of 11:00 pm and 6:00 am.
m. No animal shall be left outside during inclement weather, e.g. rain storms, snow storms, ice storms, hurricanes or thunder storms.

Egg Harbor City, New Jersey
March 1, 2014

§ 97-92. Chaining or tethering of dogs

A. Dogs must be able to move freely when chained or tethered and shall be so confined for a period no greater than six hours within a twenty-four hour period. The size of the tether or chain must be a minimum of 15 linear feet and shall remain tangle free. Dogs must be equipped with properly fitted harness or buckle-type collars. The tether or chain shall be constructed of lightweight cable. A doghouse shall be accessible to dogs that are chained or tethered.
B. No animal shall remain outdoors, tethered, untethered or penned in temperatures below 32° F. or above 90° F. for extended periods.
C. In no instance shall an animal less than six months old be left outside for an extended period of time

Folsom, New Jersey
October 2011

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 74, ANIMALS, OF THE CODE OF THE BOROUGH OF FOLSOM
WHEREAS, Chapter 74 of the Folsom Code dealing with animals, needs to be supplemented to provide standards to ensure the humane treatment of dogs.
NOW, THEREFORE, be it ordained by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Folsom, County of Atlantic, State of New Jersey, as follows:
1. Chapter 74, of the Folsom Code is hereby amended to include the following additional sections:
Section 74-22.1. Chaining or Tethering of Dogs.
a. Dogs must be able to freely move when chained or tethered and shall be chained or tethered for a total of no more than nine (9) hours within a twenty four (24) hour period. The size of the tether or chain must be a minimum of fifteen (15) linear feet and shall remain tangle free. Dogs must be equipped with properly fitted harness or buckle type collars. The tether or chain shall be constructed of suitable light weight cable.
b. No dogs shall be chained or tethered after the hour of 11pm or before 7am.
c. A dog house shall be accessible to any dog that is chained or tethered. Dog houses shall contain bedding, such as straw or other absorbent material in a clean and sufficient quantity to provide adequate insulation for the house. Bedding shall be maintained in a dry condition and renewed or changed as necessary.
d. Dogs that are not spayed or neutered shall not be tethered or chained for any period of time and must be in a completely enclosed yard or housed indoors.
Section 74-22.2. Prohibited Activities and Treatment.
a. No owner, caretaker, guardian or handler shall withhold property shelter, protection from weather, veterinary care and immune care to any animal. No owner, caretaker, guardian or handler shall fail to provide an animal with sufficient food and drinkable water on a daily basis. Food and water must be in animal food consumption or water consumption type container, feeder or waterer.
b. No animal shall be subjected to unnecessary suffering and cruelty such as subjecting the animal to prolonged fear, injury, pain or physical abuse.

Lacey Township, New Jersey
September 24, 2015

§ 134-7.5 Tethering of dogs; shelter.
A. It is unlawful to chain or tether unneutered/unspayed dogs in any manner and/or at any time within the Township.
B. Neutered/Spayed dogs may be tethered under the following circumstances:
(1) The tether must be at least 15 feet long and have an operative swivel on both ends, weigh no more than 1/8 of the dog’s weight and be attached to a properly fitted collar or harness.
(2) The collar used for tethering may not be a choke chain collar, slip collar or prong collar.
(3) The tether must allow the dog access to proper shelter, sufficient food and sufficient water.
(4) The tether may not be used in any area where it may be tangled around an object, such as, but not limited to, a tree, pole, fence or stake.
(5) The tether cannot inhibit the movement of the animal’s limbs or cause injury, harm, entanglement or strangulation.
(6) The tether must restrain the dog within the bounds of the owner’s or custodian’s property.
(7) The tether must terminate no less than five feet from any fence, pool, wall, vehicle, tree or roadway, or other object or obstruction upon which the animal might harm himself.
(8) Dogs may be tethered for no more than six consecutive hours in any twenty-four-hour period of time and never between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
(9) If there are multiple dogs, each dog shall be tethered separately and in such a manner that the tethers shall not become entangled with each other.
(10) No dog shall be tethered at a vacant structure or premises for any purpose when it is not monitored by a competent adult who is present at the property for the duration of such tethering.
(11) No dog that is sick or injured shall be tethered.

Lower Township, New Jersey
April 19, 2004

This ordinance limits the chaining of dogs to nine hours in any 24-hour period. Tethers must be lightweight, at least 15 feet long, and tangle free. They must allow a dog to move freely and have access to a doghouse.

Section 166-1 (E) Chaining or Tethering of Dogs: Dogs must be able to move freely when chained or tethered and shall be confined for a period no greater than nine hours within a twenty-four hour period. The size of the tether or chain must be a minimum of 15 linear feet and shall remain tangle free. Dogs must be equipped with properly fitting harness or buckle type collar. The tether or chain shall be constructed of lightweight cable. A doghouse shall be accessible to dogs that are chained or tethered.

Monroe Township, New Jersey
November 4, 2015

§ 33-15.1. Failure to provide proper care; tethering.
B. Tethering of dogs.
(1) Definition. “Tether” means to fasten an animal by any device (such as a rope or chain) so that it can range only within a set radius.
(2) It is unlawful to chain or tether unaltered animals (dogs or cats that are unspayed or unneutered) in any manner and/or at any time within the Township.
(3) Altered animals (dogs or cats that have been spayed or neutered) may be tethered only under the following circumstances:
(a) Tethers must allow the animal access to shelter, food and water and can be used only in an area where it will not be tangled around objects.
(b) If there are multiple dogs, each dog shall be tethered separately and in such a manner that the tethers shall not become entangled with each other.
(c) Tethers must be at least fifteen (15) feet in length, have an operative swivel on both ends, weigh no more than 1/8 of the dog’s weight and be attached to a properly fitting buckle type collar or body harness made of nylon or leather.
(d) Tethers must be free of attached weights and if links are utilized, they must not be over one-quarter (1/4) inch thick.
(e) The collar used for tethering may not be a choke chain collar, slip collar or prong collar.
(f) The tether must restrain the dog within the bounds of the owner’s or custodian’s property.
(g) The area in which the animal is tethered must be kept free of insect infestation, such as ant hills, wasp nests, fleas, ticks and maggot infestations.
(h) The tether cannot inhibit the movement of the animal’s limbs or cause injury, harm, entanglement or strangulation.
(i) Dogs may be tethered for no more than seven (7) consecutive hours in any twenty-four-hour period of time and never between sunset and sunrise.
(j) No dog may be tethered at a vacant structure or premises for any purpose when it is not monitored by a competent adult who is present at the property for the duration of the tethering.
(k) No dog that is sick or injured shall be tethered.
(l) No dog may be tethered outdoors during National Weather Service issued Alerts or Storm Warnings.

Northfield, New Jersey
May 12, 2015

§ 97-20 Keeping and control off domesticated pets.
Chaining or tethering of dogs.
D. (1) Dogs must be able to move freely when chained or tethered and shall be so confined for a period no greater than nine hours within a twenty-four-hour period. The size of the tether or chain must be a minimum of 15 linear feet and shall remain tangle-free. Dogs must be equipped with properly fitted harness or buckle-type collars. The tether or chain shall be constructed of lightweight cable not weighing more than 1/16 of the animal’s weight. A doghouse shall be accessible to dogs that are chained or tethered. Tethered animals shall have access to potable water, food, shelter and dry ground at all times.
(2) No animal shall remain outdoors, tethered, untethered or penned during a period of extreme weather, including but not limited to extreme heat (above 90°), extreme cold (below 32°), thunderstorms, tornadoes, tropical storms, or hurricanes.
(3) In no instance shall an animal remain outdoors, tethered, untethered or penned, under the age of six months old, or while sick, injured or in distress.

Ocean City, New Jersey
July 21, 2004

This ordinance prohibits the chaining of dogs who have not been spayed or neutered. The chaining of sterilized dogs for more than nine total hours in any 24-hour period is prohibited. Dogs may not be chained at all between sunset and sunrise. Tethers must be light-weight, tangle free, attach to a proper collar or harness, and must not place the animal in any danger.

Chapter 11-1.6. Chaining or Tethering.

a. Dogs must be able to move freely when chained or tethered and shall be confined for a period no greater than nine (9) hours within a twenty-four (24) hour period. The tether or chain shall be of such length as not to place the animal in any danger and shall assure that the animal will be confined to the owner's property. The chain or tether shall be tangle free. Dogs must be equipped with a properly fitting harness or buckle type collar. The tether must be made of light-weight, yet durable material, or a chain.

b. Dogs that are not spayed or neutered will not be allowed to be tethered or chained for any period of time and must be in a completely enclosed yard or housed indoors.

c. No dogs may be tethered or chained after dark (prior to sunrise or after sunset).

Plainfield, New Jersey
May 9, 2016

Sec. 5:7-6A. Tethering of animals.

Sec. 5:7-6A-1. Definitions.

As used in this Section:
(a) Tethering shall mean the restraining of an animal by the tying to any object or structure, including, without limitation, a house, tree, fence, post, garage, weight or shed, by any means, including, without limitation, rope, cord, leash or running line, but shall not include the use of a leash used to walk the animal or to forms of restraint used in the transportation of an animal.
(MC 2015-09, March 9, 2015.)

Sec. 5:7-6A-2. Tethering of dogs.

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to tether, fasten, tie, restrain or cause an unattended dog to be fastened, tied or restrained to houses, trees, fences, garages, stakes or other stationary or highly immobile objects by means of a rope, strap or other physical restraint for the purpose of confinement, except in circumstances where all of the following requirements are satisfied:
(1) The tethering is for a total of no more than six (6) hours within a twenty-four (24) hour period, with a maximum of two (2) hours at any one (1) interval and a minimum one (1) hour period between confinements.
(2) The tether is attached to the dog by a non-choke type collar, swivels at both ends, and attached to the stationary object by anchors, latches, or similar devices in a manner which the dog is able to move freely and prevents the tether from becoming entangled around the dog or any object so as to limit the dog’s freedom within the tethered area or to prevent the dog, or any of its appendages, from becoming entangled by the tether.
(3) The tether shall be of a type commonly used for the size of the dog involved.
(4) The construction of the tether shall be of a lightweight, yet durable material, shall not exceed twenty (20) percent of the animal’s weight, and may not be thicker than one-eighth (1/8) inch.
(5) The tether must be a minimum of fifteen (15) linear feet in length, less than six (6) feet above the ground, and shall remain tangle free.
(6) The tethered dog has easy access to potable drinking water, edible food, dry ground, and adequate shade and/or shelter within the tethering area.
(7) The tethering area shall be clean, clear of obstructions and/or debris, and no less than one hundred fifty (150) square feet/per dog in total area.
(8) The dog, whether used for hunting, farming, breeding, or is an otherwise working dog, is regularly monitored while tethered for the aforementioned period of time.
(b) No dog shall be tethered by means of a choke-type, pinch-type, prong-type, or improperly fitting collar.
(c) Chains shall be prohibited for use as a tethering device.
(d) If there are multiple dogs, each dog shall be tethered separately and in such a manner that the tethers shall not become entangled with each other.
(e) No dog shall be tethered within five (5) feet of another person’s property, public thoroughfare, and/or right-of-way.
(f) No dog shall be tethered in a location in which the tether would allow such dog to reach a potentially dangerous object or obstruction, including, but not limited to, a pool, fence, tree, post, railing, half wall or other object or area that poses a risk of injury or strangulation.
(g) No dog shall be tethered in a location where it may be approached by and attacked by another animal or people, without the chance to escape to a protected area.
(h) No dog shall be tethered at a vacant structure or premises for any purpose when it is not monitored by a competent adult who is present at the property for the duration of such tethering.
(i) Dogs that are not spayed or neutered shall not be tethered for any period of time.
(j) No dog under the age of one (1) or under twenty (20) pounds shall be tethered.
(k) No dog that is sick or injured shall be tethered.
(l) No dogs shall be tethered between the hours of 10:00 P.M. and 6:00 A.M.

Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey
July 7, 2015

§ 7-6.6 Leashing or Tethering of Dogs.
b. It is unlawful to chain or tether unneutered/unspayed dogs in any manner and/or at any time within the Borough.
c. Neutered/spayed dogs may be tethered under the following circumstances:
1. The tether must be at least fifteen (15) feet long and have an operative swivel on both ends, weigh no more than 1/8th of the dog’s weight and be attached to a properly fitted collar or harness.
2. The collar used for tethering may not be a choke chain collar, slip collar or prong collar.
3. The tether must allow the dog access to proper shelter, sufficient food and sufficient water.
4. The tether may not be used in any area where it may be tangled around an object, such as, but not limited to, a tree, pole, fence or stake.
5. The tether cannot inhibit the movement of the animal’s limbs or cause injury, harm, entanglement or strangulation.
6. The tether must restrain the dog within the bounds of the owner’s or custodian’s property.
7. The tether must terminate no less than five (5) feet from any fence, pool, wall, vehicle, tree or roadway, or other object or obstruction upon which the animal might harm itself.
8. Dogs may be tethered for no more than six (6) consecutive hours in any twenty-four hour period of time and never between sunset and sunrise.
9. If there are multiple dogs, each dog shall be tethered separately and in such a manner that the tethers shall not become entangled with each other.
10. No dog shall be tethered at a vacant structure or premises for any purpose when it is not monitored by a competent adult who is present at the property for the duration of such tethering.
11. No dog that is sick or injured shall be tethered.

Ringwood, New Jersey
May 21, 2009

§ 5-18.1 Shelter and Care of Animals.
a. Conditions of Pens and Premises.
1. It shall be unlawful for any person keeping or harboring animals to fail to keep the premises where such animals are located free from excessive animal waste and offensive odors to the extent that such waste and odors disturb person(s) residing or located within twenty (20) feet from the premises. It shall be unlawful to allow the premises where animals are kept to become unclean and a threat to the public health by failing to diligently and systematically remove all animal waste from the premises.
2. If animals are kept outdoors, access to shelter that supplies protection from weather shall be provided. Shelters shall be well constructed and appropriate for the species. All animals shall have access to adequate shade and water. The animal’s age, physical condition and hair coat shall be considered when determining whether available shelter is proper. The Animal Control Officer shall be empowered to make such determination.
3. Should the property restriction, environment or mitigating circumstances prevail and the animal must be tethered or tied outdoors, the confinement on the tether shall be no more than eight (8) hours during any twenty-four (24) hour period. The tether must be at least fifteen (15) feet in length and positioned to prevent tangling and hanging. If an animal must be tethered or tied outdoors, the animal must wear a properly fitted harness or buckle collar to prevent tangling or hanging. No chains shall be permitted for tethering or tying an animal outdoors. No dog shall remain outdoors in temperatures below freezing, thirty-two (32) degrees Fahrenheit during the night or for extended periods in inclement weather unless the owner of the dog has demonstrated to the Animal Control Officer that by breed or acclimation the animal can withstand such circumstances with no harm to the animal.
4. In no instance shall a dog less than five (5) months of age be left or permitted to remain outside for extended periods of time.

Sea Isle City, New Jersey
May 11, 2004

Subsection 5-3.9 Chaining or Tethering of Dogs: (a) Dogs must be able to move freely when chained or tethered and shall be confined for a period no greater than nine hours within a twenty-four hour period. The size of the tether or chain must be a minimum of 15 linear feet and shall remain tangle free. Dogs must be equipped with properly fitting harness or buckle type collars. The tether or chain shall be constructed of lightweight cable. A doghouse shall be accessible to dogs that are chained or tethered. (b) Dogs that are not spayed or neutered will not be allowed to be chained for any period of time and must be in a completely enclosed yard or housed indoors. (c) No dogs may be chained after the hours of 10:30 PM in the evening.

Toms River Township, New Jersey
May 12, 2015

§ 165-8 Tethering of dogs.
A. It is unlawful to chain or tether unneutered/unspayed dogs in any manner and/or at any time within the Township.
B. Neutered/spayed dogs may be tethered under the following circumstances:
(1) The tether must be at least 15 feet long and have an operative swivel on both ends, weigh no more than 1/8 of the dog’s weight and be attached to a properly fitted collar or harness.
(2) The collar used for tethering may not be a choke chain collar, slip collar or prong collar.
(3) The tether must allow the dog access to proper shelter, sufficient food and sufficient water.
(4) The tether may not be used in any area where it may be tangled around an object, such as, but not limited to, a tree, pole, fence or stake.
(5) The tether cannot inhibit the movement of the animal’s limbs or cause injury, harm, entanglement or strangulation.
(6) The tether must restrain the dog within the bounds of the owner’s or custodian’s property.
(7) The tether must terminate no less than five feet from any fence, pool, wall, vehicle, tree or roadway, or other object or obstruction upon which the animal might harm itself.
(8) Dogs may be tethered for no more than six consecutive hours in any twenty-four-hour period of time and never between sunset and sunrise.
(9) If there are multiple dogs, each dog shall be tethered separately and in such a manner that the tethers shall not become entangled with each other.
(10) No dog shall be tethered at a vacant structure or premises for any purpose when it is not monitored by a competent adult who is present at the property for the duration of such tethering.
(11) No dog that is sick or injured shall be tethered.

Tuckerton, New Jersey
June 15, 2015

Article III
•93-17 Tethering Dogs.
1.It is unlawful to chain or tether unneutered/un-spayed dogs in any manner and/or at any time within the Borough.
2.Neutered/Spayed dogs may be tethered under the following circumstances:
3.The Tether must be at least 15 feet long and have operative swivels on both ends, weigh no more than 1/8th of the dog’s weight and be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness.
4.The collar used for tethering may not be a choke chain collar, slip collar or prong collar.
5.The tether must allow the dog access to proper shelter, sufficient food and sufficient water.
6.The tether may not be used in any area where is may become tangled around object [sic], such as, but not limited to, a tree, pole, fence, or stake.
7.The tether cannot inhibit the movement of the animal’s limbs or cause injury, harm, entanglement, or strangulation.
8.The tether must restrain the dog within the bounds of the owner’s or caregiver’s property.
9.The tether must terminate no less than five (5) feet from any fence, pool, wall, vehicle, tree or other object or obstruction upon which any animal may harm itself.
10.Dogs may not be tethered for no more than four (4) consecutive hours in any twenty four hour period of time and never between sunset and sunrise.
11.When a violation of this provision occurs, an animal control officer or law enforcement officer is authorized to document the circumstances and evidence, take reasonable measures to remove the animal from the tether, take as evidence, and take the animal to the pound.

Upper Township, New Jersey
2009

8-5.7 Chaining or Tethering of Dogs.
a. Dogs must be able to move freely when chained or tethered. The size of the tether or chain must be a minimum of fifteen (15′) linear feet and shall remain tangle free. Dogs must be equipped with properly fitted harness or buckle-type collars. The tether or chain shall be constructed of lightweight, yet durable, material. A dog house must be accessible to any dog that is chained or tethered.
b. Dogs that are not spayed or neutered shall not be tethered or chained for any period of time and must be in a completely enclosed yard or housed indoors.
c. No dogs may be tethered or chained after dark (prior to sunrise or after sunset).

Wildwood, New Jersey
July 14, 2004

Section 8-7.8 Chaining or Tethering of Dogs: Dogs must be able to move freely when chained or tethered and shall be confined for a period no greater than nine hours within a twenty-four hour period. The size of the tether or chain must be a minimum of 15 linear feet and shall remain tangle free. Dogs must be equipped with properly fitting harness or buckle type collar. The tether or chain shall be constructed of lightweight cable. A doghouse shall be accessible to dogs that are chained or tethered.

Wildwood Crest, New Jersey
June 14, 2004

Section 28-9 Chaining or Tethering of Dogs: (a) Dogs must be able to move freely when chained or tethered and shall be confined for a period no greater than eight hours within a twenty-four hour period, with a maximum of four (4) hours at any one interval and a minimum one (1) hour period between confinements. The size of the tether or chain must be a minimum of fifteen (15’) linear feet and shall remain tangle free. Dogs must be equipped with properly fitting harness or buckle-type collars. The tether or chain shall be constructed of lightweight cable. A doghouse shall be accessible to dogs that are chained or tethered. (b) No dogs shall be chained after the hour of 11:00 PM in the evening.

Woodbridge Township, New Jersey
February 7, 2017

Chapter XI entitled “Animal Control” … Section 11-5.11 is amended to add the following:

d. Definitions. As used in this Section:
1.Tethering shall mean the restraining of an animal by the tying to any object or structure, including, without limitation, a house, tree, fence, post, garage, weight or shed, by any means, including, without limitation, rope, cord, leash or running line, but shall not include the use of a leash used to walk the animal or to forms of restraint used in the transportation of an animal.
2.It shall be unlawful for any person to tether, fasten, tie, restrain or cause an unattended dog to be fastened, tied or restrained to houses, trees, fences, garages, stakes or other stationary or highly immobile objects by means of a rope, strap or other physical restraint for the purpose of confinement, except in circumstances where all of the following requirements are satisfied:

(a) The tethering is for a total of no more than six (6) hours within a twenty-four (24) hour period, with a maximum of two (2) hours at any one (1) interval and a minimum one (1) hour period between confinements.
(b) The tether is attached to the dog by a non-choke type collar, swivels at both ends, and attached to the stationary object by anchors, latches, or similar devices in a manner which the dog is able to move freely and prevents the tether from becoming entangled around the dog or any object so as to limit the dog’s freedom within the tethered area or to prevent the dog, or any of its appendages, from becoming entangled by the tether.
(c) The tether shall be of a type commonly used for the size of the dog involved.
(d) The construction of the tether shall be of a lightweight, yet durable material, shall not exceed twenty (20) percent of the animal’s weight, and may not be thicker than one-eighth (1/8) inch.
(e) The tether must be a minimum of fifteen (15) linear feet in length, less than six (6) feet above the ground, and shall remain tangle free.
(f) The tethered dog has easy access to potable drinking water, edible food, dry ground, and adequate shade and/or shelter within the tethering area.
(g) The tethering area shall be clean, clear of obstructions and/or debris, and no less than one hundred fifty (150) square feet/per dog in total area.

(h) The dog, whether used for hunting, farming, breeding, or is an otherwise working dog, is regularly monitored while tethered for the aforementioned period of time.
3.No dog shall be tethered by means of a choke-type, pinch-type, prong-type, or improperly fitting collar.
4.Chains shall be prohibited for use as a tethering device.
5.If there are multiple dogs, each dog shall be tethered separately and in such a manner that the tethers shall not become entangled with each other.
6.No dog shall be tethered within five (5) feet of another person’s property, public thoroughfare, and/or right-of-way.
7.No dog shall be tethered in a location in which the tether would allow such dog to reach a potentially dangerous object or obstruction, including, but not limited to, a pool, fence, tree, post, railing, half wall or other object or area that poses a risk of injury or strangulation.
8.No dog shall be tethered in a location where it may be approached by and attacked by another animal or people, without the chance to escape to a protected area.
9.No dog shall be tethered at a vacant structure or premises for any purpose when it is not monitored by a competent adult who is present at the property for the duration of such tethering.
10.Dogs that are not spayed or neutered shall not be tethered for any period of time.
11.No dog that is sick or injured shall be tethered.
12.No dogs shall be tethered between the hours of 10:00 P.M. and 7:00 A.M.

e. No animal shall be left outside during snow storms, ice storms or thunderstorms or if the National Weather Service has issued a weather alert or storm warning.

Albuquerque, New Mexico
August 22, 2006

§ 9-2-2-2 HOUSING AND RESTRAINT STANDARDS FOR MAMMALS AND BIRDS KEPT ON RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY.
(D) (3) Chaining, when not accompanied by a Person.
(a) Chaining is prohibited as a means of outdoor confinement for more than one hour during any twenty-four hour period.
(b) No Chain shall weigh more than 1/8 of the Animal’s weight.
(c) The Chain must be affixed to the Animal by the use of a non-abrasive, well-fitted harness.
(d) The Chain must be at least 12 feet long and fastened so the Animal can sit, walk, and lie down using natural motions.
(e) The Chain must be unobstructed by objects that may cause the Chain or the Animal to become entangled.
(f) The Chain shall have a swivel on both ends.
(g) The Chained Animal shall be surrounded by a barrier sufficient to protect the Chained Animal from At Large Animals. The barrier shall be sufficient to prevent children from accidentally coming into contact with the Chained Animal.

Doña Ana County, New Mexico
January 17, 2014

§ 134-6. Restraint Requirements

C. Owner’s Premises. A person owning or having charge, custody, or care over an animal on his or her premises shall restrain the animal either by a secure enclosure or by immediate control.
…

(2) A person owning or having charge, custody, or care over a dog on his or her premises may use a tether as a temporary means of restraint only.
1.A person shall not tether a dog to a stationary object for more than two (2) hours in any twelve (12) hour period.
2.A person shall not tether a dog to a running line, pulley, or trolley system for more than four (4) hours in any twelve (12) hour period.
3.A person shall not tether a dog in an unenclosed area where people or other animals are able to wander into the proximity of the tethered dog.
4.A tether used to restrain a dog shall be at least twelve (12) feet in length. Such tether shall not enable the animal to reach beyond the owner’s property.
5.A tether used to restrain a dog shall be affixed to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog. A person shall not wrap a chain or tether directly around the neck or other body part of a dog.
6.A tether used to restrain a dog shall not weigh more than one-eighth (1/8) of the animal’s body weight. The tether weight shall include any additional objects attached to the dog or tether, such as locks or fasteners.
7.A tether used to restrain a dog shall have working swivels on both ends and shall be fastened so that the animal may sit, walk, and lie down using natural motions. Such tether shall be unobstructed by objects that may cause the tether or animal to become entangled or strangled.

Taos, New Mexico
November 2011

6.16.040: RESTRAINT OF ANIMALS:

A. Animals On Owner’s Property: Any animal, excluding cats, that are not deemed dangerous on its owner’s property shall be:
1.Placed in a secure run or kennel measuring at least six feet (6′) in width and twelve feet (12′) in length, and with access to shade; or
2.Kept within a “secure enclosure”, as defined in this title, surrounding the owner’s premises or a portion thereof; or
3.Kept under the immediate physical control of a person capable of restraining the animal; or

4.Restrained by means of a trolley system, if the following conditions are met:
a. Only one dog may be tethered to each cable run;
b. The device must be attached to a pulley on a cable run or trolley;
c. There must be a swivel on at least one end of the tether to minimize tangling of the tether;
d. The tether and cable run must be of adequate size and strength to effectively restrain the dog. The size and weight of the tether must not be excessive, as determined by the animal control officer, considering age, size and health of the dog;
e. The cable run must be at least ten feet (10′) in length and mounted at ground level;
f. The tether must be a minimum of ten feet (10′) in length which does not allow the animal to move beyond the legal boundary of the property;
g. The device must be affixed to an animal by use of a nonabrasive, comfortably fitted collar or harness; and
h. The device must be fastened so that the animal can sit, walk, and lie down comfortably, and must be unobstructed by objects that may cause the device or animal to become entangled or strangled.

i. The animal shall not be kept on the cable for more than twelve (12) hours at a time, and must be off of the cable for at least twelve (12) hours before being placed on the cable again.

j. Direct point chaining, or tethering of dogs to a stationary object, is prohibited.
1.The animal must have access to adequate shade, shelter, food, and potable water as outlined in subsection 6.16.030A of this chapter.
2.The area where the animal is confined must be kept free of feces, garbage and other debris that might endanger the animal’s health or safety.
3.The area where the animal is confined must be kept free of insect infestation, such as anthills, wasp nests, fleas, ticks, and maggot infestations.
4.The animal shall be brought indoors, garages, or other suitable areas, when temperatures drop to a point where the animal is potentially exposed to harm based on the size, and species of the animal.

Canandaigua, New York
September 1, 2005

Section 6.08.020 Definitions.
F. Tether – chaining, tying, leashing, or tethering a dog to any object.

Section 6.08.030 Restrictions.
H. Tethering of Dogs Prohibited
(1) It is prohibited to restrain a dog or puppy by a chain or tether for more than sixteen (16) hours in a twenty-four (24) period.
(a) Any tethering system employed shall not allow the dog or puppy to leave the owner’s property.

(b) Any tethered animal shall be arranged so that the tethering device cannot become entangled around trees, poles or other obstacles nor prevent the access to shade, food, water, and shelter.

Essex County, New York
December 6, 2016

Local Law No. 3 Regulating the Outdoor Restraint of Dogs for the County of Essex

Section 5. Prohibitions.

A. It shall be unlawful for any person, owner, agent or responsible person to tether, leash, fasten, secure, restrain, chain, confine or tie a dog to any stationary object outdoors or cause such dog to be confined in a manner that:
1.Endangers such dog’s health, safety or wellbeing;
2.Restricts such dog’s access to suitable and sufficient food and water;
3.Does not provide such dog with shelter appropriate to its breed, physical condition, size and the climate as defined by Section 353-b of the New York State Agriculture and Markets Law;
4.Unreasonably limits the movement of such dog because it is too short for the dog to move around or for the dog to urinate or defecate in a separate area from the area in which it must eat, drink or lie down;
5.Denies such dog the opportunity to exercise and engage in normal social interactions on a regular

B. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section A of this section:
1.Under no circumstances shall a dog be left tethered to a fixed point while the owner, agent or responsible party is not on the
2.No dog shall be left tethered to a fixed point, attached to an overhead dog run, or trolley system or placed in a dog enclosure unattended on vacant or abandoned
3.No dog shall be tethered or restrained to a fixed point for a period of time in excess of four (4) continuous hours or eight (8) hours cumulative during any twenty-four (24) hour period while its owner, agent or responsible party is physically present on the premises.
4.No dog shall be tethered to an overhead dog run or trolley system or confined in a dog enclosure for a period of time exceeding twelve (12) hours cumulative in a twenty-four (24) hour period with the exception of hunting dogs, sled dogs, and agricultural working dogs. Dogs may be tethered to an overhead dog run or trolley system or confined in a dog enclosure while the owner, agent or responsible party is not present at their residence provided there is compliance with this local law.
5.Notwithstanding all other provisions of this law, the prohibitions contained in Section 5 shall not apply to dogs restrained in accordance with the regulations of any campground or recreational area, provided those regulations are more stringent than the regulations contained in this local law.

C. Specifications for tethering restraints and enclosures
1.A dog shall not be tethered to a fixed point, running line, pulley or trolley system or any other system by means of a choke, chain or pinch collar. Dogs shall be tethered to such system by means of a harness or collar made of nylon, leather or other durable non-metallic material and must be fitted so as not to cause injury to the animal or embed itself in the animal’s neck.
2.All tether systems must be of appropriate configuration to prevent the tether from extending over any object or any ledge that could result in injury or strangulation of the dog, and to prevent the tether from becoming entangled with other objects or animals. All tether systems must be at least 15 feet in length.
3.Any tether, running line or lead line must have sufficient slack to allow a dog to comfortably lie down and perform normal postural movements.
4.Cable or tether shall not exceed more than 10% of the dog’s body weight. No logging chains, tow chains or other lines or devices not intended for the purpose of tethering dogs may be used.
5.Any pulley or trolley system must be at least 15 feet in length, mounted at least seven (7) feet, but no more than ten (10) feet off the ground, with a swivel on both ends.

6.Dog enclosures, dog runs, fences, pens and other outdoor enclosures, must meet the following restrictions:
a. Any dog confined within a dog enclosure must have an adequate space for exercise based on a dimension of at least 100 square feet per dog, however in the case of dogs 15 lbs. or smaller, an enclosure may be less than 100 square feet per dog provided that it is deemed adequate for exercise and safety by the enforcing officer. The following are excepted from this requirement:
(i) All veterinary facilities.
(ii) Duly incorporated SPCAs and Humane Societies.
(iii) Municipal animal shelters.
(iv) Commercial professional boarding facilities that temporarily house dogs for a fee.
b. Dog enclosures shall be constructed of chain link or other secure fencing materials with all four sides enclosed. The enclosure shall be of sufficient height to prevent the dog from escaping from such enclosure;
c. Dogs however confined must have access to adequate food and must have continuous access to water and continuous access to shelter at all times, and, in addition, as set forth in Section 353 of the NYS Agriculture and Markets Law.
d. Crates and kennels used for the purpose of temporarily confining or transporting hunting dogs, sled dogs or livestock dogs shall be constructed and sized to provide sufficient space to allow each dog to make normal postural and social adjustments with adequate freedom of movement to maintain physical conditioning. Dogs should be able to sit, stand, turn and lie without obstruction. Adequate space for food and water containers must be provided.

Section 6. Extreme Weather Conditions.
No dog shall be left outdoors during extreme weather conditions such as snow or ice storms, thunderstorms or during extreme cold or heat or during a “weather alert.”

Hempstead, New York
April 12, 2016

•152-8 Dogs at large.

A. Dogs at large prohibited; restraining dogs outdoors.

(1) It shall be a violation of this section for any owner to permit a dog, whether licensed or unlicensed, to be at large within the Town other than on the owner’s premises. For purposes of this section, a dog on a leash of six feet or more shall be considered a “dog at large.”
(2) No person shall tether, leash, fasten, secure, restrain, chain or tie a dog to a stationary object outdoors, or cause such animal to be so restrained, for longer than two continuous hours in any continuous twelve-hour period. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit a person from walking a dog on a hand-held leash.
(3) Any person who tethers, leashes, fastens, secures, restrains, chains or ties a dog to a stationary object outdoors shall provide such animal with adequate food, water and shelter, and shall restrain the dog with a device having swivels at both ends that is of an adequate length for the type, age and size of the dog being restrained; provided, however, that the requirement to provide adequate food, water and shelter shall not apply to a person who restrains a dog for a period of time that is 15 minutes or less in duration.

B. Notwithstanding, the provisions of this section, no person shall tether, leash, fasten, chain, tie, secure or restrain any dog for any amount of time with a device that:
(1) Is a choke collar or pinch collar; or similar collar that restrains the dog in such a manner that it impairs the flow of oxygen or blood to the dog which may cause choking or substantial discomfort to the dog;
(2) Is embedded, partially embedded or may become embedded in the dog’s skin;
(3) Weighs more than 1/8 of the dog’s total body weight, but in no event shall such weight exceed 10 pounds;
(4) Is less than 10 feet in length for a running cable trolley and 15 feet in length for a tether to a stationary object;
(5) Is too short to allow the dog continuous access to adequate food, water, and shelter or to urinate or defecate in an area separate from where it must eat, drink, or lie down;
(6) Is not designed for dogs;
(7) Has weights attached or contains links that are more than one-quarter-inch thick;
(8) Because of its design or placement is likely to become entangled around itself, the dog, objects or other animals;
(9) Is long enough to allow the animal to move outside of its owner’s pro property; and
(10) Would allow the restrained animal to move over an object, including but not limited to any type of fencing or barrier or edge that could result in the strangulation of or injury to such animal.

C. Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, any tether, leash, fastener, chain, tie, or restraint shall be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness designed for this purpose worn by the dog, with enough room between the collar and the dog’s throat through which two adult fingers may fit; provided, however, that such collar or harness is in compliance with subdivision B(1) above.
D. Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, no person shall tether, leash, fasten, chain, tie, secure or restrain any dog for any amount of time if such dog is under six months of age.
E. Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, no person shall tether, leash, fasten, chain, tie, secure or restrain more than one dog at a time on a permissible device.
F. Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, no person shall allow a tethered, leashed, fastened, chained, tied, secured or restrained dog to be taunted, prod, hit, harassed, threatened, attacked or otherwise harmed by humans or other animals.

New York City, New York
February, 2011

LOCAL LAWS OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK FOR THE YEAR 2011
No. 10
§17-197 Restraining animals outdoors.
a. (1) No person shall tether, leash, fasten, secure, restrain, chain or tie an animal to a stationary object outdoors, or cause such animal to be so restrained, for longer than three continuous hours in any continuous twelve-hour period.
(2) Any person who tethers, leashes, fastens, secures, restrains, chains or ties an animal to a stationary object outdoors for a permissible period of time shall provide such animal with adequate food, water and shelter, and shall restrain the animal with a device having swivels at both ends that is of an adequate length for the type and size of animal being restrained, provided, however, that the requirement to provide adequate food, water and shelter shall not apply to a person who restrains an animal while completing a task for a period of time that is fifteen minutes or less in duration.
b. Notwithstanding the provisions of subdivision a of this section, no person shall tether, leash, fasten, chain, tie, secure or restrain any animal for any amount of time with a device that:
(1) is a choke collar or pinch collar;
(2) has weights attached or contains links that are more than one-quarter inch thick;
(3) because of its design or placement is likely to become entangled;
(4) is long enough to allow the animal to move outside of its owner’s property; and
(5) would allow the restrained animal to move over an object or edge that could result in the strangulation of or injury to such animal.
c. Any person who violates the provisions of this section or any of the rules promulgated thereunder shall, for a first offense, be guilty of a violation punishable by a fine not to exceed two hundred fifty dollars, provided that such person shall be issued a written warning instead of such fine for such first offense where such animal was not injured as a result of being restrained in violation of this section. For any subsequent offense within a continuous twelve-month period, such person shall be guilty of a class B misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed five hundred dollars or by imprisonment of not more than three months, or both. In addition to such penalties, any person who violates this section shall be liable for a civil penalty of not less than two
hundred fifty dollars nor more than five hundred dollars.
d. Authorized officers, veterinarians and employees of the department, agents of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and any other persons designated by the commissioner shall be empowered to enforce the provisions of this section or any rule promulgated hereunder. Violations of this section may be supported by evidence including, but not limited to, time-stamped photographs and video, records of complaints, and sworn witness statements.
e. The provisions of this section shall not be construed to prohibit the department, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals or any law enforcement officer from enforcing any other law, rule or regulation regarding the humane treatment of animals.
f. The provisions of subdivision (a) of this section shall not apply to the officers or employees of any federal, state or city law enforcement agency.

Port Chester, New York

Chapter 136: Animals
Article IV: Tethering
§ 136-31 Required conditions.

It shall be unlawful for a responsible party to tether an animal while outdoors, except when all of the following conditions are met:

A. The responsible party is physically present on the premises while the animal is tethered.
B. The tether is connected to the animal with a collar or a body harness made of nylon or leather (no choke or pinch collars allowed).
C. The tether has the following properties:
(1) It must be at least five times the length of the animal’s body, as measured from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, however in no event shall the tether be long enough to allow the animal to move outside the responsible party’s property.
(2) It terminates at both ends with a swivel.
(3) It is not weighted.
(4) It is free of tangles.
D. The animal is tethered so as to prevent injury, strangulation, or entanglement.
E. The animal is not outside during inclement weather.
F. The animal has access to shade by natural or artificial means to protect the animal from direct sunlight at all times when exposure to sunlight is likely to threaten the health of the animal.
G. The animal has access to water and food.
H. The animal is a least six months of age.
I. The animal is not sick or injured.
J. Pulley, running line or trolley systems are at least 15 feet in length and are less than seven feet above ground; however, in no event shall the tether be long enough to allow the animal to move outside the responsible party’s property.
K. If there are multiple animals, each animal is tethered separately, in a manner in which they cannot become entangled.
L. The animal is not tethered for more than two hours in a continuous twelve-hour period.

Suffolk County, New York
May 19. 2014

§ 299-51 Prohibitions.

A. It shall be unlawful for any person to tether, leash, fasten, secure, restrain, chain or tie a dog to any stationary object outdoors or cause such dog to be restrained in a manner that:
(1) Endangers such dog's health, safety or well-being;
(2) Restricts such dog's access to suitable and sufficient food, fresh, potable water and dry ground;
(3) Does not provide such dog with shelter appropriate to its breed, physical condition, and the climate as defined by § 353-b of the New York State Agriculture and Markets Law; or
(4) Unreasonably limits the movement of such dog because it is too short for the dog to move around or for the dog to urinate or defecate in a separate area from the area where it must eat, drink or lie down.

B. Notwithstanding the provisions of Subsection A of this section, no person shall tether, leash, fasten, secure, restrain, chain or tie a dog to any object with a device that:
(1) Is a choke collar, pinch collar, or prong collar, or a similar collar that restrains the dog in such a manner that it impairs the flow of oxygen or blood to the dog, which may cause choking or causes substantial discomfort to the dog;
(2) Is embedded, partially embedded or may become embedded in such dog's skin;
(3) Has weights attached or contains links that are more than 1/4 inch thick;
(4) Weighs more than 12.5% of the dog's total body weight, not to exceed 15 pounds for any dog;
(5) Is less than 15 feet in length;
(6) Because of its design or placement is likely to become entangled;
(7) Is long enough to allow such dog to move outside of its owner's property;
(8) Would allow the restrained dog to move over an object, including any fencing, barrier, or edge that could result in the strangulation of or injury to such dog; or
(9) Is fixed (i.e., does not swivel) on either end.

C. No person shall tether, leash, fasten, secure, restrain, chain or tie a dog to any stationary object outdoors for more than one continuous hour in any continuous twelve-hour period between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m.

D. No person shall tether, leash, fasten, secure, restrain, chain or tie a dog to any stationary object outdoors between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

E. No person shall tether, leash, fasten, secure, restrain, chain or tie a dog to any stationary object outdoors if the dog is:
(1) Less than six months of age;
(2) Sick or injured; or
(3) A nursing mother whose offspring is present.

F. Multiple dogs shall not be tethered or restrained in such a manner that they are able to come into contact with one another at any point in time while restrained.

G. No person shall tether, leash, fasten, secure, restrain, chain, tie, pen or otherwise confine outdoors a dog when:
(1) The temperature is below 32° F.;
(2) The temperature is above 90° F.;
(3) The National Weather Service has issued a heat or wind chill advisory, watch or warning; or
(4) Conditions are not appropriate due to the breed, physical condition and climate, as established pursuant to New York State Agricultural and Markets Law § 353-b.

Ulster County, New York

December 8, 2014

SECTION 3. TETHERING REQUIREMENTS.

It shall be unlawful to tether a dog outdoors under circumstances including, but not limited to, the following:
1.a) It shall be illegal to tether a dog using a choke or pinch collar or any device that restricts a dog’s ability to breath, eat or drink or to protect itself from reasonably anticipated danger. Tether attachments to dogs, other than a buckle type collar or a body harness made of nylon or leather and are at least one inch in width, are not permitted. Tethers must be free of attached weights and if links are utilized they must not be over one-quarter inch thick.
1.b) (i) The length of a stationary tether shall not be less than ten feet or five times the length of the dog’s body as measured from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, whichever length is greater; shall connect at both ends with a swivel; shall not weigh more than 1/10th of the dog’s weight; shall be free of tangles; and shall not allow the dog to move outside the owner’s property.
(ii) If the dog is tethered to a pulley, running line, or trolley or cable system, it must be a minimum of fifteen (15) feet long and less than seven (7) feet above the ground. A choke collar or a pinch collar shall not be used with tethering to a trolley or cable system.
1.c) The dog must be tethered in a manner that prevents entanglement around trees, poles or other obstacles. The dog must have access to shade, food, water and shelter.
1.d) The dog must not be tethered outdoors during a National Weather Service issued weather alerts or storm warning. No dog shall be tethered during snow or ice storms or thunderstorms. Dogs should not be tethered unless temperature is between 32F and 80F.
1.e) The dog has access to clean water, shelter, shade, and dry ground.
1.f) A tethered dog must be at least 6 months old.
1.g) No tethered dog shall have a health condition that would be exacerbated by tethering.
1.h) If there are multiple dogs, each must be tethered separately in a manner that prevents entanglement with each other.
1.i) A tethered dog shall have access to appropriate shelter that will allow the dog to remain dry and to be protected from the elements. In addition to complying with the requirements of Section 353-b of New York State Agriculture and Markets Law, the shelter shall: be fully enclosed on all sides except one, which side shall have an opening that will allow the dog easy entry to and exit from the shelter; have a slanted, waterproof roof; have a solid floor. The shelter shall contain clean bedding and shall be small enough to retain the dog’s body heat, and large enough to allow the dog to stand, lie down with limbs outstretched, and turn around comfortably. The area around the shelter shall be kept free of standing water, ice and waste.
2.j) No dog shall be tethered outside for more than 12 hours in any 24 hour period.
1.k) No person shall subject a dog to cruel conditions or inhumane tethering at any time. For purposes of this section, “cruel conditions or inhumane tethering” shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

(i) A tethered dog shall not be exposed to excessive animal waste, garbage, dirty water, noxious odors or dangerous objects that could injure or kill a dog upon contact.
(ii) Taunting, prodding, provoking, hitting, harassing, threatening or otherwise harming a tethered or confined dog.
(iii) Exposing a dog to dangerous conditions, including potential attacks by other animals.

SECTION 4. ENFORCEMENT.

This Local Law shall be enforced by the office of the Ulster County Sheriff, New York State Police and may also be enforced by any police officer, local Dog Control or Animal Control officer, or humane law officer or investigator with jurisdiction within Ulster County.
Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall, for a first offense, be guilty of a violation punishable by a fine of $100 and/or 20 hours of community service.
For a second offense, the fine shall be five hundred dollars and/or 75 hours of community service plus reimbursement of investigation costs.
For a third or subsequent violation, the fine shall be one thousand dollars and/or 150 hours of community service plus surrender of dog, if ordered by court, plus costs of investigation and prosecution. In addition, all third time offenders, subsequent to the enactment of this law, are required to register as an animal abuser at such time that an animal abuse registry is lawfully established.

Bladen County, North Carolina
June 17, 2013

This ordinance bans tethering under conditions deemed harmful by an animal control officer, including employing a tether of an inappropriate length or weight; requires that tethering arrangements prevent possible entanglement; and mandates that animals have access to food, water, and shelter. It also requires that tethers be attached with swivels on both ends.

Chapter 5 – Animals
Article I – IN GENERAL
Sec. 5-15. – Manner of keeping and treating animals generally.

It shall be unlawful to tether an animal to a stationary object for a period of time or under conditions that an animal control officer or animal cruelty investigator deems harmful or potentially harmful to the animal. Examples of improper tethering include, but are not limited to the following:

(1) Using a length or weight of tether that is not appropriate for the size, weight and age of the animal. The restraint must be a minimum of four times the length from the tip of the animal’s nose to the tip of the animal’s tail and shall be no less than ten feet.
(2) Using tether that does not have swivels on both ends. All tethers must be attached to the animal by means of a properly fitting harness or collar of not less than one inch in width made of nylon or leather.
(3) Allowing an animal to be tethered such that the animal is not confined to the owner’s property or such that the tether can become entangled and prevent the animal from moving about freely, lying down comfortable or having access to adequate food, water and shelter.

Burlington, North Carolina

October 9, 2014

Section 3. Mistreatment of Animals Prohibited (a) It shall be unlawful for any owner and/or custodian to fail to provide animals with sufficient good and wholesome food and water, proper shelter and protection from the weather, veterinary care when needed to prevent suffering, and with humane care and treatment

(b) It shall be unlawful for any owner and/or custodian to beat, cruelly ill-treat, torment, overload, overwork or otherwise abuse any animal or cause or permit any dogfight, bullfight, or other combat between animals or between animals and humans.

(f) It shall be unlawful to allow animals to live in crowded or unsanitary conditions. Any dog confined within a fenced yard or enclosure must have adequate shelter, adequate space and exercise. Minimum space requirements for enclosures shall include the following:
1.The enclosure shall be structurally sound and maintained in good repair to protect the animal from injury and to contain the animal
2.Enclosures must be kept in humanely clean condition
3.Enclosures shall be constructed and maintained as to provide adequate space to allow each animal to make normal postural and social adjustments with adequate freedom of movement to maintain physical conditioning. The animal should be able to sit, stand, turn and lie without obstruction.

(g) No person shall tether, fasten, chain tie, or restrain an animal, or cause such restraining of an animal to any object during periods of which tethering is unlawful. Periods of lawful tethering shall be temporary in nature and for no more than seven (7) consecutive days and shall not be misconstrued to permit the practice of continuous tethering of a dog as a method of restraint or confinement. An animal may be tethered, subject to the
requirements of Section 5-27 in the following circumstances:
1.Tethering for a period not to exceed seven (7) consecutive days while actively engaged in:
2.Lawful animal event (such as a show or sporting event)
3.Lawful hunting activities, if reasonably necessary for the safety of the dog
iii. While a dog is actively engaged in shepherding or herding livestock
1.When meeting the requirements of a camping or recreation facility
2.Law enforcement activities
3.After taking possession of a dog that appears to be a stray dog and after having advised Animal Control of the stray.
4.When the animal’s caretaker is outside and within eyesight of the animal
(h) During periods of lawful tethering, the following are stipulations to the types of tethers that may be used:
1.Tethers must be made of rope, twine, cord, or similar material with a swivel on one end or must be made of a chain that is at least ten (10) feet in length with swivels on both ends and which does not exceed ten (10) percent of the dog’s body weight.
2.All collars or harnesses used for the purpose of the lawful tethering of a dog must be made of fabric or leather
3.No person shall tether a dog with a chain or wire or other device to, or cause such attachment to, any collar other than a buckle-type collar or body harness
4.No person shall tether with a chain or a wire or other device to, or cause such attachment to, a head harness, choke-type collar or pronged collar to a dog
5.No person shall tether with a chain, wire or other device to a dog where the weight of the tethering device and the collar combined exceeds ten (10) percent of the dog’s body weight
6.No person shall tether with a chain or wire or other device a dog in such a manner that does not allow the dog access to adequate food, water and shelter
7.Trolley systems: the length of the cable along which the tethering device can move must be at least ten feet, and the tethering device must be of such length that the dog is able to move ten feet away from the cable perpendicularly and attached in such a manner as to prevent strangulation or other injury to the dog and entanglement with objects
8.No person shall tether a sick, diseased and/or injured dog, or puppy (a dog that is one year of age or younger).

(i) Any violation of Section 5-27 (g), (h) shall subject the offender to a civil or criminal penalty as hereinafter set forth.
1.1st offense: Written Warning
2.2nd offense: $100.00 (if the dog or cat is not spayed or neutered, the civil penalty may voided in lieu of the owner having the dog or cat spayed or neutered by a veterinarian and providing to the animal control officer documented proof of such within 14 days)
3.3rd offense: $250.00
4.4th and subsequent offenses: Violators shall be guilty of a class 3 misdemeanor and shall be punished and shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars ($500.00). Any violation of Section 5-27 (a), (b), (c), (d), (e), (f) shall subject the offender to a civil penalty in the amount of fifty dollars ($50.00).

Dare County, North Carolina
May 15, 2017

91.033 General Care and Tethering of Dogs
A. It shall be unlawful for any person to restrain a dog using a chain, wire or other type of tethering device on vacant or unoccupied property.
B. It shall be unlawful for any person to restrain a dog using a chain, wire or other type of tethering device except under the following conditions:
(1) No person shall tether, fasten, chain, tie or restrain a dog, or cause such restraining of a dog, to a tree, fence, post, dog house, or other stationary object for more than a total of three hours in a 24-hour period.
(2) During periods of tethering, any tethering device used shall be at least ten feet in length and attached in such manner as to prevent strangulation or other injury to the dog and entanglement with objects. If a cable trolley system is used for tethering, the length of the cable along with the tethering device must be at least ten feet in length and the dog must be able to move ten feet away from the cable perpendicularly and be attached to the dog in such a manner to prevent strangulation or other injury to the dog and entanglement with objects.
(3) The tether shall be connected to the dog by a body harness made of nylon or leather, not less than one inch in width and where the weight of the tethering device and the collar cannot exceed ten percent of the dog’s body weight.
(4) No person shall tether a dog with a chain or wire or other device, or cause such attachment that does not terminate at both ends with a swivel.
(5) No person shall tether with a chain or wire or other device to, or cause such attachment to, a head harness, choke‐type collar or pronged collar to a dog.
(6) Tethered dogs shall have access to adequate food, water, and shelter. This includes shelter from extreme heat or near freezing temperatures, flooding, tornadoes, thunderstorms, tropical storms and hurricanes.
(7) Tethered dogs shall be at least six months of age. Puppies shall not be tethered. Tethered dogs shall not be sick or injured.
(8) Tethering and restraint of dogs shall be allowed when actively engaged in organized and lawful animal activities including but not limited to hunting, obedience training, field and water training, law enforcement training, herding or shepherding of livestock, and/or in the pursuit of working or competing on those legal endeavors.
C. A chain or rope is acceptable in the place of a leash when walking a dog as long as the dog has an appropriate collar or harness.
D. Any person found in violation of the regulations described in Section 91.033 shall be subject to the following fees:
(1) 1st Offense: Subject to citation and $100.00 fee (if the dog is not spayed or neutered, the fee may be voided in lieu of the owner having the pet spayed or neutered by a veterinarian and providing to the animal control officer documented proof of such within 14 days.)
2nd Offense: Subject to a class 3 misdemeanor and fine of up to $500.00 and forfeiture of the dog to Dare County Animal Control.

Hendersonville, North Carolina
July 1, 2015

Sec. 10-152. Mistreatment of animals prohibited.
1.A tether must be equipped with a swivel on both ends.
2.A tether must be a minimum of 10 feet in length and be made of either metal chain or coated steel cable.
3.Tethers must be attached to a collar or harness worn by the domestic animal and under no circumstances shall the tether be placed directly around the domestic animal’ s neck. Tethers are never to be used in conjunction with training collars such as choke or pinch-style collars.
4.The weight of the tether must not exceed 10% of the total body weight of the domestic animal but shall be of sufficient strength to prevent breakage.
5.The tether by design and placement must allow the domestic animal a reasonable and unobstructed range of motion without the possibility of entanglement.
6.The domestic animal must be six months of age or older to be tethered.
7.Only one domestic animal may be attached to a single tether.
8.Pulley systems, running lines, and trolley systems cannot be used in conjunction with training collars such as choke or pinch-style collars. The attached tether may not be made of rope, twine, cord or similar material.
9.Pulley, running line or trolley systems shall be at least 10 feet in length and no more than seven feet above ground.
10.The attached tether shall be no less than 10 foot in length.
11.No tether shall be affixed to a stationary object which allows a domestic animal to come within 5 feet of any property line.
12.The Animal Care & Control Officer may have in their sole discretion the power to order any resident a minimum tethering requirement when such a condition is found to be detrimental to the health, safety and welfare of the domestic animal.
13.No animal shall be tethered more than two hours in any continuous 12 hour period.
14.Exemptions. Citizens residing in townhomes, apartments, condos or similar multi-family housing units with lot sizes insufficient to meet the length and property lines requirements specified in sections 2, 8 and 9 above, may only tether domestic animals for temporary exercise and relief.

Middletown, Ohio
April, 2007

§ 618.23 CONFINEMENT OF DOGS. EXHIBIT “C”
(a) Except as otherwise limited by Section 618.17 of the Codified Ordinances, dogs may be considered to be in the reasonable control of their owner, harborer or keeper if they are enclosed or tethered on the property of such owner, harborer or keeper.
(b) Chaining or tethering. Direct point chaining or tethering of dogs to a stationary point is prohibited. Dogs may be restrained by means of a trolley system or a tether attached to a pulley on a cable run, if the following conditions are met:
A. Only one dog may be tethered to each cable run
B. The tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog, with enough room between the collar and the dog’s throat through which two adult human fingers may fit. Choke collars, prong collars and pinch collars are prohibited for purposes of tethering a dog to a cable run.
C. The chain or tether must have swivels on both ends.
D. The tether or chain and cable run must be of adequate size and strength to effectively restrain the dog. However, the chain or tether shall weigh no more than one-eighth (1/8) of the dog’s weight.
E. The chain or tether must be at least fifteen (15) feet in length and attached to a pulley or trolley mounted on a cable which is also at least fifteen (15) feet in length and mounted no more than seven (7) feet above the ground.
F. The dog shall be tethered at a sufficient distance for any other objects to prevent tangling of the chain or tether, from extending over an object or an edge that could result in strangulation and a sufficient distance from any fence to prohibit the dog access to the fence.
G. The dog shall have continuous access to water and shelter.
H. The dog must be spayed or neutered.
I. No dog shall be chained or tethered for more than twelve (12) consecutive hours in a twenty-four (24) hour period.
(c) Enclosures. Any dog enclosed in a pen or a fenced yard must have adequate space for exercise based on a dimension of at least one hundred and fifty square feet (150 sq. ft.) per dog.

Richmond Heights, Ohio
August 23, 2016

SECTION 4. Chapter 505
505.072 NEGLECT OF ANIMALS.

(e) Unlawful restraint of animals. The owner of an animal may restrain an animal on a tether for a reasonable period, provided adequate food, water and shelter from the elements is provided. Tethering is prohibited:

(1) Between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.;
(2) If a heat advisory has been issued by a local or state authority or jurisdiction;
(3) If a tornado warning has been issued for the jurisdiction by the National Weather Service;
(4) If the tether is less than 20 feet, provided the tether does not allow the animal to touch the fence or cross the property line or cross onto a public easement;
(5) If the tether is attached by means of a pinchtype, prongtype, or choketype collar or if the collar is unsafe or is not properly fitted;
(6) If the tether inhibits the animal’s free movement or causes injury or entanglement;
(7) If the animal does not have access to shade, dry shelter, and a tip-proof water supply

Youngstown, Ohio
February 19, 2015

SECTION 505.011 DOGS RUNNING AT LARGE

(C) Tethering dog
(3) No person shall tether or cause to be tethered any dog that is not in the immediate proximity of its owner or custodian except under ALL the following conditions:
1.a) the owner or custodian is present on the property
2.b) such tethering does not exceed sixty (60) continuous minutes
3.c) the dog is six (6) months of age or older
4.d) if female, the dog is sterilized or not in estrus
5.e) the tether does not exceed ten percent (10%) of the dog’s body weight
6.f) the tether is at least three (3) times the length of the dog from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail
7.g) the tether allows the dog to easily sit, stand, lie, turn around, and make all other normal body movements in a comfortable normal position for the dog
8.h) the tether allows the dog in interact safely with other animals, if at all
9.i) the tether is appropriate for the age and size of the dog and attached to the dog by a properly fitted collar or body harness configured to prevent the dog or tether from becoming entangled with other objects or animals or from extending over an object or edge that could result in he [sic] strangulation or injury of the dog
10.j) only one dog is attached to a single tether; and
11.k) the dog is not tethered in such a manner to permit the dog to cross and enter upon another’s property, except that the same shall not be unlawful if the affected property owner or person having lawful possession thereof provides consent.

Bartlesville, Oklahoma
April 26, 1999

Sec. 3-124. Confinement of dogs.

A. The owner of any dog shall provide the animal with adequate shelter that meets the minimum specifications of this subsection. Said shelter shall:
1. Allow the dog to remain dry and protected from the elements; provided, that metal barrels shall not be considered adequate shelter;
2. Be small enough to retain the dog’s body heat and large enough to allow the animal to stand and turn comfortably;
3. Be structurally sound and in good repair;
4. Contain adequate and appropriate bedding.

B. Any owner of any dog that elects to confine the animal to a pen or enclosure shall, in addition to the requirements of subsection A of this section, provide a pen or enclosure that meets the minimum specifications of this subsection. Said pen or enclosure shall:
1. Have not less than one hundred (100) square feet of space for each adult dog, provided that boarding kennels shall be exempt from this provision;
2. Provide adequate drainage to prevent surface water from standing in the area of the pen or enclosure where the dog is kept;
3. Be maintained in compliance with section 3-6 of this chapter.

Sec. 3-125. Use of tie-outs and chaining limited.

A. It shall be unlawful for the owner of any dog to keep or maintain the dog on a tie-out consisting of a rope, chain or other type of tether for a period of more than five (5) continuous hours, or for any duration under conditions which threaten the health or well-being of the animal. At the end of any such period, the owner shall remove the tether from the dog and provide the dog with an adequate chance to exercise.
B. The owner of a dog maintained on a tether of any type shall properly fit the dog with a harness or buckle-type collar to which the tether shall be attached. The tether shall be of adequate length to allow reasonable exercise and access to water and shelter at all times, and shall not be subject to entanglement with other objects in a manner to cause the dog any injury or discomfort or be of a weight disproportionate to the size of the animal so tethered as to unduly burden the animal.

C. The owner of any cat shall not stake the cat outside on a leash, rope, chain, or similar tether.
D. The requirements of this section shall apply during the twenty-four hours of each day.

Multnomah County, Oregon
June 27, 2002

Ordinance No. 986 (b) Tethering of a dog on a leash, cord, chain or similar device, to an object that prohibits or restricts movement, recommended not more than an hour. Allowing the dog a larger area, avoid entanglement, tether the dog to a stationary object. (c) The Board wishes to prohibit tethering a dog in an unsafe manner and in any manner for longer than 10 hours in a 24-hour period.

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
May 14, 2013

3-505.6 Tethering of dogs outdoors
1.It shall be unlawful for any person to tether, fasten, chain, tie, restrain or cause an unattended dog to be fastened, chained, tied or restrained to houses, trees, fences, garages, stakes or other stationary or highly immobile objects by means of a rope, chain, strap or other physical restraint for the purpose of confinement, except in circumstances where all of the following requirements are satisfied:
2.The tethering is not for a longer period of time than reasonably necessary for the dog’s owner or custodian to complete a temporary task that requires the dog to be physically restrained.
3.The tether is attached to the dog by a non-choke type collar and attached to the stationary object by swivel anchors, latches, or similar devices in a manner which prevents the tether from becoming entangled around any object so as to limit the dog’s freedom within the tethered area, or to prevent the dog, or any of its appendages, from becoming entangled by the tether.
4.The tether must be of a type commonly used for the size of the dog involved and if the tether is a chain, it may not be thicker than one-eighth of an inch.
5.The dog has easy access to (i) potable drinking water, (ii) edible food and (iii) adequate shade and/or shelter within the tethered area.
6.The dog is periodically monitored while tethered for the aforementioned reasonable period of time.
7.The dog is not tethered outdoors in violation of §3-505.7

3-505.7 Restrictions on leaving dogs outdoors

It shall be unlawful for any person to leave any dog outside and unattended during any period in which a severe weather warning has been issued for Dauphin County by the National Weather Service for a continuous period of time greater than one-half (1/2) hour if the temperature during such period remains entirely either (i) below thirty-two (32) degrees Fahrenheit or (ii) above ninety (90) degrees Fahrenheit. Outside, for purposes of this section, shall mean any unattended dog that is outside subject to the weather and elements, which expressly includes, but not limited to, a dog in securely fenced-in yard, a dog in a carrier, or a dog tethered or tied-out. The dog shall be considered “outside” regardless of access to an outdoor doghouse or similar structure, unless such structure is a properly functioning climate-controlled and weather-resistant structure.

Hazleton, Pennsylvania

Ordinance 2006-9, Dog Owner Responsibility

2. Containment

a. All dogs shall be securely contained to their owner's property, but may not be inhumanely restrained by tying to a restraint for more than 8 continual hours per day.

Mount Wolf, Pennsylvania
April 2012

If a dog is tethered outside: The tether shall be attached to the dog by a non-choke type collar and attached to the stationary object by swivel anchors, latches, or similar devices in a manner which prevents the tether from becoming entangled around any object so as to limit the dog’s freedom within the tethered area, or prevent the dog, or any of its appendages, from becoming entangled by the tether. The dog shall have easy access to clean drinking water and adequate shade and/or shelter within the tethered area. The dog is periodically monitored while tethered for the aforementioned reasonable period of time. The dog is not to be tethered or left outdoors for a continuous period of time greater than one-half (1/2) hour if the temperature during such period remains entirely either below thirty two (32) degrees Fahrenheit or above ninety (90) degrees or during any period in which severe weather warning has been issued for York County by the National Weather Service.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

December 15, 2014

• 633.23 TETHERING OF DOGS; PROHIBITION OF KEEPING DOGS OUTDOORS IN EXTREME WEATHER

(1): It shall be unlawful for any person to tether, fasten, chain, tie, restrain or cause an unattended dog to be fastened, chained, tied or restrained to houses, trees, fences, garages, stakes or other stationary or highly immobile objects by means of a rope, chain, strap or other physical restraint for the purpose of confinement, except in circumstances where all of the following requirements are satisfied:
•The tethering is not for a longer period of time than reasonably necessary for the dog, owner or custodian to complete a temporary task that requires the dog to be physically restrained; and,
•The tether is attached to the dog by a non-choke type collar and attached to the stationary object by swivel anchors, latches, or similar devices in a manner which prevents the tether from becoming entangled around any object so as to limit the dog’s freedom within the tethered area, or to prevent the dog, or any of its appendages, from becoming entangled by the tether; and,
•The tether must be of a type commonly used for the size of the dog involved and if the tether is a chain, it may not be thicker than one-eighth of an inch (1/8″); and,
•The tether shall be at least three (3) times the length of the dog as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail, but no less than ten (10) feet in length and shall allow the dog convenient access to the dog house
•The dog has easy access to
(1) potable drinking water;
(2) edible food; and,
(3) adequate shade and/or shelter within the tethered area.
•The dog is periodically monitored while tethered for the aforementioned reasonable period of time; and,
•The dog is not tethered outdoors during any period in which a severe weather warning has been issued for Allegheny County by the National Weather Service; and,
•The dog is not tethered outdoors for a continuous period of time greater than one-half (1/2) hour if the temperature during such period remains entirely either:
(1) below thirty-two (32) degrees Fahrenheit; or,
(2) above ninety (90) degrees Fahrenheit.

(2) It shall be unlawful for any person to leave any dog outside and unattended during any period in which a severe weather warning has been issued for Allegheny County by the National Weather Service for a continuous period of time greater than one-half (1/2) hour if the temperature during such period remains entirely either:
(a) below thirty-two (32) degrees Fahrenheit; or
(b) above ninety (90) degrees Fahrenheit.

(c) Outside, for purposes of this section, shall mean any unattended dog that is outside subject to the weather and elements, which expressly includes, but not limited to, a dog in securely fenced-in yard, a dog in a kennel, or a dog tethered or tied-out. The dog shall be considered “outside” regardless of access to an outdoor doghouse or similar structure.

(3) The duly authorized enforcement agents of the city’s Bureau of Animal Care &Control are the primary agents to enforce this Ordinance. Additionally, Pittsburgh police officers and all of those vested with the authority as an enforcement officer or agent under the Pennsylvania Animal Cruelty Law are also permitted to enforce this Ordinance. The City expressly reserves the right to appoint by resolution any additional agents of the City to enforce the provisions of this Ordinance.

(4) In addition to the city’s Animal Care & Control agents and police authority having jurisdiction, the Humane Society agent(s), or any officer, employee, or agent of the City, is hereby authorized to notify any owner or occupant of any premises in violation of this Ordinance, either personally or by posting such notice upon the premises, that such owner must bring the outdoor dog tethering violation into compliance with this Ordinance within one (1) day of receipt of such notice. Upon the failure of such owner or occupant to bring his or her tethering situation into compliance with this Ordinance within such period of time, any of the foregoing individuals authorized by the City to enforce this Ordinance are hereby authorized to enter upon such premises and to temporarily remove such dog from the property.

(5) Any removed dog will be held at the Animal Rescue League or other designated or authorized facility. Prior to any hearing regarding the violation, such dog owner may regain possession of any confiscated dog upon an adequate showing that his or her tethering situation has been brought into compliance with this Ordinance. No confiscated dog shall be considered surrendered to the confiscating party unless expressly surrendered by the dog owner or adjudicated as forfeited as provided in the Pennsylvania Animal Cruelty Law after a hearing on the matter as provided in this Section 5.

(6) Any person who violates any provision(s) of this chapter shall commit a summary offense, and shall, upon being found guilty by a Magisterial District Judge, after hearing, pay a fine not to exceed $500, together with all enforcement and shelter costs in the event a dog must be confiscated, and all court costs as permitted by law. Each day of violation shall constitute a separate offense, which shall be subject to prosecution as such. Enforcement and prosecution of any violation of this Ordinance may be conducted by the City as provided by law or by its agent and counsel as provided in the Pennsylvania Animal Cruelty Law.

Reading, Pennsylvania
March 27, 2017

§ 141-205. Caring for animals.
A. Pa. Code Animal Regulations; see 18 Pa.C.S.A. § 5511.

B. The City’s Animal Control Agent shall have the authority to announce/call a Code Blue, relating to extreme cold, or Code Red, relating to extreme heat, requiring the owners of dogs to protect the unattended dog from the extreme heat or cold by bringing the dog into the place where the owner or person who has custody, control or possession of the dog resides.

(1) A Code Blue may be called by the Animal Control Agent when the National Weather Service (NWS) predicts a wind chill temperature of 20° F. or below or precipitation with temperatures below 32° F.
(2) A Code Red may be called by the Animal Control Agent when the National Weather Service (NWS) predicts an extended weather forecast that includes at least three consecutive days of 95° F. or above temperatures.
(3) The Animal Control Agent shall announce the declaration of the Code Blue or Code Red on its website, to all local media outlets, and to the social media outlets it regularly uses to communicate with the public. A minimum of eight hours’ notice shall be provided to Reading residents.
(4) In addition to the requirements of the Pa. Code animal regulations as per Subsection A herein, any person who owns or has possession, custody or control of a dog shall not allow the animal to remain unattended outdoors (except for brief walks and brief periods of exercise) whenever a Code Blue or Code Red weather emergency has been declared by the City’s Animal Control Agent.
(5) If the City’s Animal Control Agent finds that any person who owns or has possession, custody or control of a dog has not complied with the regulations herein, the City’s Animal Control Agent shall have the ability to impound the dog, as per § 141-215, Impoundment, Part 6.
(6) Upon impoundment, the City’s Animal Control Agent shall follow the procedures in § 141-216, Notice to owner and redemption.
(7) Any person in violation of this Part shall be subject to the provisions of § 141-222, Violations and penalties, herein.

C. It shall be unlawful for any person to tether, fasten, chain, tie, restrain or cause an unattended dog to be fastened, chained, tied or restrained to houses, trees, fences, garages, stakes or other stationary or highly immobile objects by means of a rope, chain, strap or other physical restraint for the purpose of confinement, except in circumstances where all of the following requirements are satisfied:
(1) The tethering is not for a longer period of time than reasonably necessary for the dog’s owner or custodian to complete a temporary task that requires the dog to be physically restrained, and
(2) The tether is attached to the dog by a non-choke type collar and attached to the stationary object by swivel anchors, latches, or similar devices in a manner which prevents the tether from becoming entangled around any object so as to limit the dog’s freedom within the tethered area, or to prevent the dog, or any of its appendages, from becoming entangled by the tether, and
(3) The tether must be of a type commonly used for the size of the dog involved and if the tether is a chain, it may not be thicker than one-eighth of an inch, and
(4) The dog has easy access to (i) potable drinking water, (ii) edible food and (iii) adequate shade and/or shelter within the tethered area, and
(5) The dog is periodically monitored while tethered for the aforementioned reasonable period of time, and
(6) The dog is not tethered outdoors in violation of §141-205 B Code Red or Code Blue above.

§ 141-207. Restraining and confinement generally.
A. It shall be unlawful for the owner of any dangerous dog and/or aggressive dog to fail to keep such dangerous dog and/or aggressive dog under restraint or to permit such dangerous dog and/or aggressive dog to run at large upon the streets and public ways of the City.
B. Any dog, while on a street, sidewalk, public way or in any park, public square, or other public space, or upon any private property without the consent of the owner, shall be secured by a leash or chain of sufficient tensile strength to restrain the particular dog, or shall be at heel and securely muzzled.
C. No owner or custodian of any animal shall fail to exercise proper care and control of such animal to prevent the same from becoming a public nuisance.
D. Every female dog in heat shall be confined to the residence of the owner or keeper in such a manner that such female dog cannot come into contact with another animal except for planned breeding.
E. Tethering a dog outdoors shall be prohibited as per §141-205 C Code Red or Code Blue above.

Florence County, South Carolina
2008

Sec. 6-2. – Animal cruelty.
(n) Tethering of dogs. “Tethered” or “tethering” means attaching an animal to a stationary object by means of a chain, cable, rope, running line, harness or similar device. Tethering shall not include the use of an appropriate leash to walk a dog.
(1) It shall be unlawful for any person to tether, fasten, chain, tie, restrain or otherwise cause a dog to be fastened, chained, tied or restrained, without limitation to houses, trees, garages, or other stationary or immobile objects by means of a chain, cable, rope, running line, harness or other physical restraint for the purpose of confinement, except in circumstances where all of the following requirements are met:
a. The tether must be attached to a properly fitting harness or collar and not directly to the dog’s neck. The tether must be at least 15 feet in length; positioned so that at its greatest length it prevents injury, strangulation or entanglement with any obstruction, man-made or natural or another animal; and employ a swivel on at least one end of the tether to minimize tangling.
b. The tether, assembly or attachments shall not exceed one-tenth of the dog’s body weight so as to inhibit the free movement of a dog within the area tethered.
c. Tethering of dogs for more than eight hours at a time in any 24-hour period is prohibited.
d. A dog is not to be tethered outside during extreme weather including, but not limited to, extreme heat or near-freezing temperatures, thunderstorms or floods.
e. A tethered dog must have access to adequate shade, shelter, food and water.
f. The dog must be at least 15 feet from the edge of any public road or sidewalk and not in an area open to teasing or attacks, or where the ground is continuously wet or muddy. The dog must be tethered in a manner that will prevent the animal from leaving any part of the owner’s property.
g. The dog must be six months of age or older.
h. The dog must not be sick or injured.
i. If there are multiple dogs, each dog must be tethered separately with sufficient space placed between the dogs to ensure that there is no contact with another tethered animal.
(2) Any person in violation of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction must be punished by imprisonment not exceeding 30 days or by a fine not less than $100.00 nor more than $500.00, or both.

Greenville, South Carolina
November 26, 2012

Sec. 4-5 – Animal Care Generally
c) It shall be unlawful for a responsible party to tether an animal while outdoors, except when all of the following conditions are met:
1.The animal must be over the age of six months.
2.The animal is in visual range of the responsible party and the responsible party is located outside with the animal.
3.The animal is not tethered more than 2 hours in any continuous 12 hour period.
4.The tether is connected to the animal with a buckle type collar or a body harness made of nylon or leather not less than one inch in width and is one inch greater in diameter than the animal’s neck or torso.
5.The tether has the following properties:
a. A minimum twelve foot length
b. A swivel type termination at both ends.
c. Is not made of chain.
d. Total weight does not exceed ten percent of the animal’s body weight, and
e. Is fabricated of a material that prevents tangles.
6.The animal is not outside during extreme weather including, but not limited to, extreme heat, temperatures below 36 degrees Fahrenheit, snow, hail, tornadoes, thunderstorms, tropical storms or hurricanes.
7.The animal is tethered so as to prevent injury, strangulation, or entanglement.
8.The animal has access to water, food and shelter.
9.The animal is not tethered where any object may interfere or impede free movement of the tether.
10.The animal is not sick or injured.
11.The animal is not tethered in such proximity to any other tethered animal that would allow entanglement.
12.The animal is not tethered on any property with an unoccupied dwelling to include, but not limited to, abandoned or condemned buildings.
13.Any pulley, running line or trolley system to which a tether is attached shall be no less than fifteen feet in length and no more than seven feet above ground.

Chattanooga, Tennessee
January 26, 2010

Sec. 7-2. Definitions.

“Adequate space” means sufficient space to allow each animal to (i) easily stand sit, lie, turn about, and make all other normal body movements in a comfortable, normal position for the animal and (ii) interact safely with other animals in the enclosure.

When an animal is tethered, “adequate space” means a tether that permits the above actions and is appropriate to the age and size of the animal; is attached to the animal by a properly applied collar, halter, or harness configured so as to protect the animal from injury and prevent the animal or tether from becoming entangled with other objects or animals, or from extending over an object or edge that could result in the strangulation or injury of the animal; and is at least three times the length of the animal, as measured from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, except when the animal is being walked on a leash or is attached by a tether to a lead line. When freedom of movement would endanger the animal, temporarily and appropriately restricting movement of the animal according to accepted veterinary standards for the species is considered provision of adequate space. Provided, however, that no animal shall be tethered for more than twelve (12) hours in a twenty-four (24) hour period.

Sec. 7- 49. Tethering dogs and other animals.
(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to tie or tether a dog or other animal to a stationary object for a more than a reasonable period of time or in a location so as to create an unhealthy situation for the animal or a potentially dangerous situation for a pedestrian as determined by an animal services officer.
(b) The terms “unhealthy situation” and “potentially dangerous situation” shall include, but not be limited to the following:
(1) Tether, fasten, chain, tie, or restrain a dog, or cause a dog to be tethered, fastened, chained, tied, or restrained, to a dog house, tree, fence, or any other stationary object
for longer than a reasonable time;
(2) Tether any animal in such a manner as to permit the animal to leave the owner’s property;
(3) Tether any animal in an area that is not properly fenced so as to prevent any person or child from entering the area occupied by said animal;
(4) Tether any companion animal in a manner whereby the animal is subject to harassment and perpetual stings or bites that show evidence of injury from outdoor insects, or attacks by other animals;
(5) Failure to remove waste from the tethered area on a daily basis;
(6) Allow more than one animal to be tethered to each running cable or trolley line.
(7) Use a tether that weighs more than one fifth (1/5) of the animal’s body weight;
(8) Tether, chain, attach to a running cable line or trolley system any animal between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 am;
(9) Use a running cable line or trolley system that is made of a substance which can be chewed by the animal;
(10) Not allow the length of the tether from the running cable line or trolley system to the animal’s collar and permit access to the maximum available exercise area and allow the animal free access to food, water, and shelter;
(11) Not be attached to a properly fitted harness or collar not used for the display of a current rabies tag and other identification; and with enough room between the collar and
the dog’s throat through which two fingers may fit; and
(12) Not be tethered at sufficient distance from any other objects to prohibit the tangling of the cable, from extending over an object or an edge that could result in injury of strangulation of the animal and be of sufficient distance from any fence so as to prohibit the animal access to the fence.

Montgomery County, Tennessee
2010

(e) It shall be unlawful for any animal to be confined or restrained to any stationary object for more than one (1) hour. Puppies under six (6) months of age may not be left unattended at any time while tethered. Dogs six (6) months or older, as determined by veterinary records or breeder certificates, may be restrained by means of a trolley system attached to a pulley on a cable run. Exception: An in ground fixed point cable system may be used if the system allows 360 degree movement and if the following conditions are met:
(1) Only one dog may be confined or restrained to each cable system.
(2) Choke collars and pinch collars are prohibited for purposes of confining or restraining.
(3) There must be a swivel on at least one end of the restraint to minimize tangling.
(4) The cable run must be at least twenty (20) feet in length and mounted at least four (4) feet and no more than seven (7) feet above ground level with a swivel on at least one end to minimize entanglement.
(5) The length of the restraint to the dog’s collar should allow access to the maximum available exercise area and should allow continuous access to clean water and adequate shelter. The trolley system must be of appropriate configuration to confine the dog to the owner’s property, to prevent the restraint from extending over an object or edge that could result in injury or strangulation of the dog, and to prevent the restraint from becoming entangled with other objects or animals.
(6) Any dog confined or restrained 24 hours a day 7 days a week must have at least 30 minutes of time spent actively with proper exercise off restraint (by means of leash walking, active play in an enclosed secured area conducive to the dogs size and age) within each 24 hour period.
(a) Any dogs confined within a fenced yard or kennel type enclosure must have adequate space for exercise based on a dimension of at least one hundred (100) square feet.
(7) No dog shall be confined or restrained in an area where bare earth is prevalent and no steps have been taken to prevent the area from becoming wet and muddy from precipitation. (10- 3-7)

Oak Ridge, Tennessee

(b) A dog or puppy may be restrained by a fixed point chain or tether for no more than eight hours in a twenty-four hour period.
(c) A dog may be exclusively restrained by a chain or tether provided that it is at least ten feet in length, with swivels on both ends, and is properly attached to a pulley or trolley mounted on a cable which is also at least ten feet in length and mounted at least four feet and no more than seven feet above ground level in a manner so as not to interfere or become entangled with objects on the property.
(d) Any tethering system employed shall not allow the dog or puppy to leave the owner’s property.
(e) No chain or tether shall weigh more than one-eighth of the dog or puppy’s body weight.
(f) Any chain or tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog or puppy.

Allen, Texas
October 27, 2009

Sec. 3-3. – Running at large/restraint.
(a) It shall be unlawful for an owner of an animal without regard to mental state, to fail to keep the animal from running at large.
(b) It shall be unlawful for an owner or harborer to allow a dog or other animal to be tethered to a stationary object or in a location so as to create an unhealthy situation for the animal or a potentially dangerous situation for a pedestrian as determined by the animal control authority. The term “unhealthy situation” shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
(1) To tether any animal in such a manner as to cause the animal injury;
(2) To tether any animal in such a manner as to not permit the animal access to shelter, food, or water. It shall be an affirmative defense to this subsection that the owner or harborer was in the same location as the dog or other animal while the animal was tethered;
(3) To tether any animal in such a manner as to permit the animal to leave the premises owned, leased, or occupied by the dog’s owner or harborer or to permit the animal access on any public right-of-way;
(4) To tether any animal in such a manner as to permit the animal to leave the owner or harborer’s property;
(5) To allow any tethered animal to become entangled; or
(6) To use a collar that is pinch-type, prong-type, or choke-type or that is not properly fitted to the dog.
(c) An owner may not leave a dog outside and unattended by use of a restraint that unreasonably limits the dog’s movement:
(1) Between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.;
(2) Within five hundred (500) feet of the premises of a school; or
(3) In the case of extreme weather conditions, including conditions in which: a. The actual or effective outdoor temperature is below thirty-two (32) degrees Fahrenheit;
b. A heat advisory has been issued by a local or state authority or jurisdiction; or
c. A hurricane or tornado warning has been issued for the jurisdiction by the National Weather Service.
(Ord. No. 1859-8-00, § 1, 8-3-2000; Ord. No. 2867-10-09, § 1, 10-27-2009)

Grand Prairie, Texas
Sec. 521.
Unlawful restraint of animals.
(a) The owner of an animal may restrain an animal on a tether for a reasonable period, not to exceed three hours in a 24 hour period, and no longer than is necessary for the owner to complete a temporary task that requires the animal to be restrained.

Tethering is prohibited:
(1) Between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.;
(2) Within 500 feet of the premises of a school or school bus stop;
(3) If the actual or effective outdoor temperature is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit;
(4) If a heat advisory has been issued by a local or state authority or jurisdiction;
(5) If a hurricane, tropical storm, or tornado warning has been issued for the jurisdiction by the National Weather Service;
(6) If the tether is a. less than five times the length of the dog, as measured from the tip of the dog's nose to the
base of the dog's tail; or b. less than 10 feet; whichever is greater.
(7) If the tether and/or related attachments are greater than 20 percent of the animal’s weight;
(8) If the tether is attached by means of a pinchtype, prongtype, or choketype collar or if the collar is unsafe or is not properly fitted;
(9) If the tether inhibits the animal’s free movement or causes injury or entanglement;
(10) If the animal is under four months of age;
(11) If the animal does not have access to shade, dry shelter, and a tipproof water supply;
(12) If the length of the tether allows the animal to touch the fence or cross the property line or cross onto public easement.

Sec. 522.Confinement.
(a) Any dogs confined within a fenced yard must have adequate space for exercise based on a dimension of at least 100 square feet for one dog, plus an additional 30 square feet for each additional dog.

(b) For owners or persons having custody of a dog kept in an outside dog run or dog kennel, the enclosure shall meet the 100 square foot requirement for the first dog with an additional 30 square feet for every additional dog in the same enclosure. Enclosures shall be of sufficient height to prevent the dog from escaping, constructed of chain link or similar material with a solid floor or ground, provide shade and protection from the elements, and meet the requirements

Harris County, Texas
October 1, 2007

SECTION 13. UNLAWFUL RESTRAINT OF DOGS
1.A person who owns or has custody or control of a dog and who uses a chain, rope, tether, leash, cable, or other device that attaches a dog to a stationary object or trolley system shall comply with Chapter 821, Subchapter D, sections 821.076 through 821.081 of the Texas Health and Safety Code, as amended. Dogs must have a properly fitted collar and restraint system as required by Subchapter D, Chapter 821 of the Texas Health and Safety Code.
2.A person who owns or has custody or control of a dog may not leave a dog outside and unattended by use of a chain, rope, tether, leash, cable, or other device that attaches a dog to a stationary object or trolley system that: unreasonably limit the dog’s movement: between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.; or is located within 500 feet of a school; or occurs during extreme weather conditions as defined in Subchapter D, Chapter 821 of the Texas Health and Safety Code.
3.A chain, rope, tether, leash, cable, or other device that attaches a dog to a stationary object or trolley system unreasonably limits a dog’s movement if it:1.uses a collar that is pinch-type, prong-type, or choke-type or that is not properly fitted to the dog;
2.is a length shorter than the greater of: 171.five times the length of the dog, as measured from the tip of the dog’s nose to the base of the dog’s tail; or
2.10 feet;
3.is in an unsafe condition; or
4.causes injury to the dog.

Mount Pleasant, Texas
June 21, 2016

CHAPTER 97: ANIMALS
§ 97.15 UNLAWFUL RESTRAINT OF AN ANIMAL.

(B) A person commits an offense if he or she uses a chain, rope, tether, leash, cable, or other device to attach a dog to a stationary object or trolley system. This section does not prohibit a person from walking a dog with a hand-held leash.
(C) It is a defense to prosecution under this section that:
(1) The dog is being tethered during a lawful animal event, veterinary treatment, grooming, training, or law enforcement activity;
(2) The dog tethering is required to protect the safety or welfare of a person or the dog, and the dog’s owner maintains direct physical control of the dog; or
(3) The dog tethering is due to force majeure and the dog is tethered for less than one hour within a 24 period; or
(4) The dog tethering:
(a) Occurs while the dog is within the owner’s direct physical control; and
(b) Prevents the dog from advancing to the edge of any public right-of-way.
(D) Outdoor kennels used to house and contain an animal must be at a minimum no less than 50 square feet per animal providing for adequate movement of each animal. Nursing animals under three months of age may be kenneled together.

Nocona, Texas

Section 2.108 Dogs to be Restrained

(A) Chaining and Tethering Animals.
1.It shall be unlawful to keep an animal or livestock on a chain or rope placed in a manner that makes it possible to become entangled with the restraints of other animals or livestock or with any other objects.
2.It shall be unlawful to keep any animal or livestock on a chain or rope that is of insufficient length to allow the animal or livestock complete access to food, water and shelter at all times.
3.It shall be unlawful to attach a chain to an animal or livestock in a manner so as to cause injury or discomfort to the animal or livestock.
4.It shall be unlawful to stake a cat outside on a leash, rope, chain or similar apparatus.

5.It shall be unlawful to restrain a dog outside with a chain or tether unless:
a) A person is holding the chain or tether; or
b) The dog’s owner or handler remains outside, within 50 feet of the dog, throughout the period of restraint.

6. An owner may not leave a dog outside and unattended by use of a restraint that unreasonably limits the dog’s movement:
a) Between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.;
b) Within 500 feet of the premises of a school; or
c) In the case of extreme weather conditions, including condition in which:
1) The actual or effective outdoor temperature is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit;
2) A heat advisory has been issued by a local or state authority or jurisdiction;
3) A hurricane, tropical storm, or tornado warning has been issued for the jurisdiction by the National Weather Service.

7.Violations of this Ordinance shall be punishable by a penalty of up to $2,000.00 dollars per violation.

San Angelo, Texas
March 2009

Sec. 3.2002 Chaining of Dogs Prohibited as Primary Enclosure

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to chain or tether a dog as its primary enclosure for any period longer than two hours cumulative, in a 24-hour period, except that:

(1) A dog must be restrained by a leash while being walked outside of a fenced or enclosed area;

(2) A dog may be restrained by chain or tether at a camping or recreational area in compliance with Texas Health and Safety Code § 821.077

Alexandria, Virginia
June 12, 2010

Sec. 5-7-36.1 Provision Of Adequate Shelter And Space, Tethering Of Dogs.

(a) It shall be unlawful for my person to fail to provide any dog with adequate space or adequate shelter. As used in this section, the terms “adequate space” and “adequate shelter” have the meanings ascribed to them by City Code Section 5-7-3 1 (DEFINITIONS), subsections n and o, respectively.

(b) Except when a dog’s owner, guardian or custodian is physically within reach of the dog, it shall be unlawful for any person to tether a dog to a chain, rope or line of any kind -that is too short to enable the dog easily to stand, sit, lie, turn about, and make all other normal body movements in a comfortable, normal position for the animal and reach shade as necessary, for more than three hours cumulatively within any twenty-four hour period, whether or not the tethered dog has been provided adequate space.

(c) Notwithstanding any other part of this Section, a dog may be attached to a running cable line or trolley system that allows it to reach shelter and water as necessary, except that no dog may be confined to such a running cable line or trolley system for more than twelve (12) hours cumulatively, within any twenty-four (24) hour period. A running cable line or trolley system is defined as one that is at least twenty (20) feet in length and is mounted at least four (4) feet, but no more than seven (7) feet, above the ground. Under no circumstances shall a dog be attached to a running cable line or trolley system unless the tether attaching it to the running cable line or trolley system is at least ten (1 0) feet in length or three times the length of the animal, as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail, whichever is longer.

Arlington County, Virginia
October 19, 2013

§ 2-6.1. Tethering of Dogs
A. Except when a dog’s owner, guardian or custodian is physically within reach of the dog, it shall be unlawful for any person to tether a dog to a chain, rope or line of any kind that is too short to enable the dog easily to stand, sit, lie down, turn about, and make all other normal body movements in a comfortable, normal position for the animal, and reach shade as necessary, for more than three (3) hours cumulatively within any twenty-four (24) hour period, regardless of whether the tethered dog has been provided adequate space during parts of such period. For the purposes of this section, “adequate space” shall have the meaning given to it in Title 3.2 of the Code of Virginia. When the same dog is observed to be tethered in the same location that it was in after an initial observation of the dog in that location, then there shall be a rebuttable presumption that the dog has been continuously tethered in that location since the initial observation.

B. Notwithstanding any other part of this section, a dog may be attached to a running cable line or trolley system that allows it to reach shelter and water as necessary, except that no dog may be confined to such a running cable line or trolley system for more than twelve (12) hours cumulatively within any twenty-four (24) hour period. When the same dog is observed to be tethered in the same location on a least two (2) subsequent occasions in the twenty-four (24) hour period that follows an initial observation of the dog in that location, then there shall be a rebuttable presumption that the dog has been tethered in that location for more than twelve (12) hours cumulatively in the twenty-four (24) hour period since the initial observation. A running cable line or trolley system is defined as one that is at least 20 feet in length and is mounted at least four (4) feet, but no more than seven (7) feet, above the ground. Under no circumstances shall a dog be attached to a running cable line or trolley system unless the tether attaching it to the running cable line or trolley system is at least ten (10) feet in length or three (3) times the length of the animal, as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail, whichever is longer.

Chesapeake, Virginia
February 11, 2014

Sec.10-22.1. Tethering dogs.

(c) No person shall tether or cause to be tethered any dog that is not in the immediate proximity of its owner or custodian except under all of the following conditions:
(1) The owner or custodian is present on the property;
(2) Such tethering does not exceed sixty (60) continuous minutes;
(3) The dog is six (6) months of age or older;
(4) If female, the dog is sterilized and not in estrus;
(5) The tether does not exceed ten percent (10%) of the dog’s body weight;
(6) The tether is at least three (3) times the length of the dog from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail;
(7) The tether allows the dog to easily stand, sit, lie, turn around, and make all other normal body movements in a comfortable, normal position for the dog;
(8) The tether allows the dog to interact safely with other animals, if at all;
(9) The tether is (i) appropriate for the age and size of the dog; and (ii) attached to the dog by a properly fitted collar or body harness configured to prevent the dog or tether from becoming entangled with other objects or animals or from extending over an object or edge that could result in strangulation or injury of the dog;
(10) Only one (1) dog is attached to a single tether; and
(11) The dog is not tethered in such a manner to permit the dog to cross and enter upon another’s property, except that the same shall not be unlawful if the affected property owner or person having lawful possession thereof provides consent.

Danville, Virginia
December 1, 2009

Sec. 5-25. Adequate space for animals; time restriction on tethering companion animals.

(a) It shall be unlawful to fail to provide any animal with adequate space. “Adequate space” means sufficient space to allow each animal to (i) easily stand, sit, lie, turn about, and make all other normal body movements in a comfortable, normal position for the animal and (ii) interact safely with other animals in the enclosure.

(b) When a companion animal is tethered, “adequate space” means a tether that permits the above actions and is appropriate to the age and size of the companion animal. The tether must be attached to the companion animal by a properly applied collar, halter, or harness configured so as to protect the companion animal from injury and prevent the companion animal or the tether from becoming entangled with other objects or animals, or from extending over an object or edge that could result in the strangulation or injury of the companion animal. Furthermore, the tether must be at least three (3) times the length of the companion animal, as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail, except when the companion animal is being walked on a leash or is attached by a tether to a lead line. When freedom of movement would endanger the companion animal, temporarily and appropriately restricting movement of the companion animal according to professionally accepted standards is considered to be provision of adequate space.

(c) It shall be unlawful for any person to tether a companion animal:
1.When the outside temperature is equal to or less than thirty-two (32) degrees Fahrenheit;
2.In a manner as to cause injury, strangulation or entanglement of the dog on fences, trees, or other manmade or natural obstacles;
3.To a fixed-point;
4.That is under four (4) months of age;
5.That is sick or injured; or
6.For more than four (4) hours, in any twenty-four-hour period.

Fairfax City, Virginia
December 9, 2014

Sec. 6-3. – Tethering, tying, or chaining of companion animals
(1) No person shall tie, fasten, chain, restrain or tether a companion animal to any fixed or stationary object, device or structure, or to any other object designed to confine and limit the movement of the companion animal, for a period in excess of three (3) cumulative hours in any one day between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.
(2) In addition to the foregoing limitation, no tying, fastening, chaining, restraining or tethering, as set forth in subsection (1) of this section, shall be permissible:
a. Between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.;
b. With regard to any animal that is sick or injured;
c. With regard to any animal that is under four (4) months of age;
d. When the ambient air temperature exceeds ninety (90) degrees Fahrenheit or is at or below thirty-two (32) degrees Fahrenheit in the immediate vicinity of the tying, fastening, chaining, restraining or tethering of the animal.

Any person who violates this section shall be subject to a civil penalty of fifty dollars ($50.00), which shall not be suspended in whole or in part; however, any person found guilty of a violation of this section for a second or subsequent time (regardless of whether or not the companion animal is the same animal for each violation) shall be subject to a civil penalty of up to $250 for each additional violation.

Newport News, Virginia
December 8, 2014


Sec. 6-78. Unattended tethering of dogs prohibited; exceptions.
•It shall be unlawful to tether any unattended dog for a period exceeding one (1) continuous hour.
•When a dog is tethered, the tether must be attached to the dog by a properly applied collar, halter, or harness configured so as to protect the dog from injury and prevent the dog or the tether from becoming entangled with other objects or dogs, or from extending over an object of edge that could result in strangulation or injury of the dog. Furthermore, the tether must be at least three (3) times the length of the dog, as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail.
•Any owner, whose dog has a valid license pursuant to Section 6-33 as of February 1, 2015, shall be exempt from the provisions of this section as it relates to each dog owned and licensed prior to February 1, 2015. The exemption provided by this subsection shall be forever forfeit for any dog whose license is not renewed by February 1 of any subsequent year.
2.That this ordinance shall be in effect on and after July 1, 2015.

Northampton County, Virginia
May 10, 2004

§ 95.05 TETHERING OF ANIMALS.

(A) An animal owner in the county shall allow each animal to (i) easily stand, sit, lie, turn about and make all other normal body movements in a comfortable, normal position for the animal and (ii) interact safely with other animals in the enclosure. When an animal is tethered, “adequate space” means a tether that permits the above actions and is appropriate to the age, size, and health of the animal; is attached to the animal by a properly applied collar, halter, or harness configured so as to protect the animal from injury and prevent the animal or tether from becoming entangled with other objects or animals, or from gaining access to public thoroughfares, or from extending over an object or edge that could result in the strangulation or injury of the animal; and is at least ten feet in length or three times the length of the animal whichever is longer, as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail, except when the animal is being walked on a leash or is attached by a tether to a lead line. When freedom of movement would endanger the animal, temporarily and appropriately restricting movement of the animal according to professionally accepted standards for the species is considered provision of adequate space. Provided, however, that no animal shall be tethered for more than 12 hours in a 24-hour period.

(B) Animals involved in agricultural activities shall not be subject to this section.

(C) It shall be an unlawful act if any person violates any provision of this section and it shall constitute a Class 4 misdemeanor.

Portsmouth, Virginia
September 25, 2012

Sec. 4-9. Standards for keeping animals and household pets; harboring stray animals.

(c) It shall be unlawful for any person to chain, stake out, or tether any animal on any premises in such a manner that the animal may go beyond its own property line unless such person has permission from the owner of the affected property. At no time shall an animal be allowed to be staked out, chained or tethered in a manner, which allows the animal to cross onto city property.

(d) Animals, which are staked out, chained, or tethered outside on any property, shall be 15 feet away from the property line, and at no time shall an animal be permitted to be chained, staked out or tethered outside on a balcony that is above ground level.

(e) When an animal is tethered, “adequate space” means a tether that permits the above actions and is appropriate to the age and size of the animal. The tether must be attached to the animal by a properly applied collar, halter, or harness configured so as to protect the animal from injury and prevent the animal or the tether from becoming entangled with other objects or animals, or from extending over an object or edge that could result in the strangulation or injury of the animal. For dogs, the tether must be at least three times the length of the dog, as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail, except when the dog is being walked on a leash or is attached by a tether to a lead line. When freedom of movement would endanger the animal, temporarily and appropriately restricting movement of the animal according to professionally accepted standards is considered to be provision of adequate space.

(f) It shall be unlawful for any dog to be tethered for more than consecutive three hours during any 24-hour period.

Richmond, Virginia
October 23, 2007

Sec. 10-92. Cruelty to animals.

(d) (2) It shall be unlawful for any person to tether a dog for more than one hour cumulatively within any twenty-four hour period, whether or not the tethered dog has been provided adequate space

Smithfield, Virginia
October 4, 2005

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person owning and/or controlling dogs whether vaccinated or unvaccinated, licensed or unlicensed, to allow said animal to be tied or chained to dog houses, or other stationary objects for a period of time longer than 8 hours in a 24 hour period and shall be prohibited from 11:00 pm through 6:00 am.

Staunton Virginia
2010

6.05.090 Tethering animals.
(1) It shall be unlawful for any person to tether any animal less than four months of age within the city of Staunton. Animals over four months of age are prohibited from being tethered between the hours of 10:00 p.m. through 6:00 a.m. local time.

(2) Whenever the police department or animal control officer receives a complaint as to a violation of this section, and the complaint is found to be warranted, the police department or animal control officer shall notify the person in writing to abate such violation within 30 days. If, after such written notice, the person fails to correct the violation, the police department or animal control officer shall take the necessary legal action to abate the violation by having the animal impounded or the person charged with a violation of this section, or both.

(3) The first violation of this section shall constitute a Class 4 misdemeanor. A subsequent violation shall constitute a Class 3 misdemeanor. (Ord. 2010-14).

Virginia Beach, Virginia
April 5, 2016

Moundsville, West Virginia
November 2009

No person shall tether an animal:
a. When the outside temperature is equal to or greater than 85 degrees Fahrenheit or equal to or less than 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
b. In such a manner as to cause injury, strangulation or entanglement of the dog on fences, trees or other man-made or natural obstacles.
c. With a fixed point chain or to any stationary object.
d. After dark and before 6 AM
e. Within 500 feet of a school
f. That is under 6 months of age.
g. That is sick or injured.

CONFINEMENT REQUIREMENTS:
Though highly discouraged, tethering is only acceptable during the permitted hours by the following methods.
A. Dogs may be restrained by means of a trolley type system or a tether attached to a pulley on a cable run, Provided:
1. Only one dog may be tethered to each cable run.
2. The tether must be attached to a properly fitted buckle type collar or a harness. Choke, prong or pinch collars shall not be used to tether a dog to a cable run. A swivel must be on each end of the tether to prevent twisting and tangling.
3. The tether and cable must be of adequate size and strength to effectively restrain the dog and must not be of excessive size or weight considering the age, size and health of the dog. Maximum weight limit of the tether, including any assembly or attachments thereto, shall be no more than 1/8 the weight of the dog.
4. The cable run must be at least ten (10) feet in length and mounted at least four (4) feet and no more than seven (7) feet above ground level.
5. The length of the tether from the cable run to the animal’s collar must be of such length that the dog is able to move 10 feet away from the cable perpendicularly and should allow continuous access to water and shelter. The cable system must be of the appropriate configuration to confine the animal to the owner’s property, to prevent the tether from extending over an object or an edge that could result in injury or strangulation and to prevent the tether from becoming entangled with other objects or animals. The tether must be long enough for the animal to move around and be able to urinate or defecate in an area separate from where it must eat, drink or lie down. The tether must allow the animal convenient access to food, water, dry ground or shelter. No vegetation or obstacles can restrict the movement of the animal on the tether.
6. A shelter which is defined as having 4 sides, a roof and a solid floor and be of the appropriate size for the animal. The dog must be able to easily stand, sit, lie down, turn around and make all other normal body movements in a comfortable, normal position for the animal. It must be wind and moisture proof and of proportionate size to allow the natural body heat of the dog to be retained in cold weather.
7. An entry way to allow the animal to easily enter and exit; the entryway must have a flap which blocks any inclement weather from entering. (wind, rain, snow, etc.)
8. The floor shall be raised at least 2 inches above the ground and be free of cracks, holes or protruding nails or rough edges that could cause injury.
9. The shelter shall be maintained and cleaned regularly. The area around the shelter shall be kept clean of accumulated feces, garbage and any other debris.
10. Metal drums shall not be considered shelter.
11. Straw, cedar chips or such like material shall be provided inside the dog house and the surrounding area.
12. The shelter is placed in an area that provides protection from the direct rays of the sun, when sunlight is likely to cause overheating or discomfort. Pens, fences or other such enclosures must:
h. Allow a minimum of 150 square feet of area for each dog.
i. Provide sufficient shade to allow the dog to be out of the direct rays of the sun when sunlight is likely to cause overheating or discomfort. The inside of the dog house does not qualify as sufficient shade.
j. Maintained in a clean manner and kept free from accumulated feces and debris.
k. Provide shelter as defined in the Confinement Requirements
Food and water:
l. Potable water must be available at all times.
m. It must not be allowed to freeze without replacement.
n. The food and water container must be placed out of the sun.
o. Food and water is to be provided in a clean container and situated or fastened in such a manner to prevent overturning.
p. Food shall be free from contamination, wholesome, palatable and of sufficient quantity and nutritive value to meet the daily requirements for the condition and size of the dog.

Racine, Wisconsin

Sec. 10-75. Chaining dogs.
(a) It shall be unlawful to keep a dog chained for longer than 12 hours in any 24-hour period.
(b) The chain shall be no less than ten feet in length.
(c) The chain shall be attached in such a manner as not to allow the dog to trespass on public or private property.
(d) The terms "chain" and "chaining" shall include ropes and leashes.

Ordinances that Regulate Tethering

Fairhope, Alabama
May 12, 2003 - Chaining or tethering dogs is prohibited. Attaching dogs to a running line or trolley is permitted, provided that the line is at least 10 feet long. Enclosures must provide a minimum of 150 square feet for dogs over 6 months of age.

Ordinance No. 1169
AN ORDINANCE TO PROHIBIT THE CHAINING OR TETHERING OF DOGS AND MANDATING THAT DOG ENCLOSURES MUST PROVIDE 150 SQUARE FEET OF SPACE FOR DOGS OVER SIX MONTHS OF AGE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF FAIRHOPE, ALABAMA, AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. Any person owning and/or controlling dogs whether vaccinated or unvaccinated, licensed or unlicensed, shall no allow said animal to be tied or chained to dog houses, or other stationary objects.
Section 2. No person shall, at any time, fasten, chain, or tie any dog or cause such dog to be fastened, chained or tied while such dog is on the dog owner’s property or on the property of the dog owner’s landlord, or on any property within the corporate limits of the City of Fairhope.
Section 3. Any dogs confined within a fenced yard must have an adequate space for exercise based on a dimension of at least 150 square feet per dog. Provided, further that where dogs are kept or housed on property without a fenced yard, the owner of such dogs or persons have custody of such dogs shall provide an enclosure for such dogs meeting the 150 square foot per dog dimension. Such enclosure shall be constructed of chain link or similar type materials with all four sides enclosed. The enclosure shall be sufficient height to prevent the dog from escaping from such enclosure, and shall meet the requirements of the Alabama animal rights protection act 13A-11-241.
Section 4. Nothing in this ordinance shall be construed to prohibit owners or others walking dogs with a hand held leash.
Section 5. Nothing in this ordinance shall be construed to prohibit owners from allowing dogs to be attached to over head runs (i.e. leash or chain attached to an over head wire at least 10 feet long, that allows the dog to move unheeded.)

Phoenix, Arizona
June 2016

Little Rock, Arkansas
Sec. 6-16. Confinement.
(d) Chaining. Direct point chaining, or tethering of dogs to a stationary object, is prohibited. Dogs may be restrained by means of a trolley system, or a tether attached to a pulley on a cable run, if the following conditions are met:
(1) Only one dog may be tethered to each cable run.
(2) The tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog, with enough room between the collar and the dog's throat through which two fingers may fit. Choke collars and pinch collars are prohibited for purposes of tethering a dog to a cable run.
(3) There must be a swivel on at least one end of the tether to minimize tangling of the tether.
(4) The tether and cable run must be of adequate size and strength to effectively restrain the dog. The size and weight of the tether must not be excessive, as determined by the Animal Services officer, considering the age, size and health of the dog.
(5) The cable run must be at least (10) feet in length and mounted at least four (4) feet and no more than seven (7) feet above ground level.
(6) The length of the tether from the cable run to the dog's collar should allow access to the maximum available exercise area and should allow continuous access to water and shelter. The trolley system must be of appropriate configuration to confine the dog to the owner's property, to prevent the tether from extending over and object or an edge that could result in injury or strangulation of the dog, and to prevent the tether from becoming tangled with other objects or animals.

(f) Confinement During Transportation.
(1) When transporting a dog in an open-bed pickup or in any open-bed vehicle, the dog shall be confined in a secured carrier or dog box that provides the dog adequate room to stand, turn around, and stretch out without hindrance and provides adequate ventilation and protection from environmental conditions.
(2) If a dog must be transported in an open-bed vehicle but is too large for a carrier or dog box, the dog shall be restrained by a system of tethering to the vehicle bed in a manner that reasonably restricts the dog to the center of the bed in order to prevent the dog’s
escape and to minimize the dog’s access to the sides of the vehicle bed.
(3) It shall be unlawful for any person to place or confine or allow a dog to be confined in such a manner that it must remain in a motor vehicle, trailer or pet carrier under such conditions for such periods of time as may endanger the health or well-being of the dog due to heat, lack of food or water, or any circumstances which might cause suffering, disability or death.

Section 6-17 Minimum Care
(a) Shelter.
(1) Any dog that is habitually kept outside or repeatedly left outside unattended by an adult person shall be provided with a structurally sound, moisture-proof and windproof shelter large enough to keep the dog reasonably clean and dry.
(2) A shelter which does not protect the dog from temperature extremes or precipitation, or which does not provide adequate ventilation or drainage, shall not comply with this section.
(3) A dog’s shelter and bedding and other accessible space shall be maintained in a manner which minimizes the risk of the dog contracting disease, being injured or becoming infested with parasites.
(b) Nutrition.
(1) It shall be unlawful for any person keeping or harboring any dog to fail, refuse or neglect to provide such dog with clean, fresh potable water adequate for the dog’s size, age, and physical condition. This water supply shall be either free flowing or provided in a removable receptacle that is weighted and secured to prevent tipping.
(2) It shall be unlawful for any person keeping or harboring any dog to fail, refuse or neglect to provide such dog with wholesome foodstuff suitable for the dog’s physical condition and age and in sufficient quantities to maintain an adequate level of nutrition for the dog.
(c) Exercise.
(1) The enclosure or confinement area for a dog shall encompass sufficient useable space to keep the animal in good condition.
(2) When a dog is confined by means of a tether and cable run, the trolley system shall be configured to allow access to the maximum available exercise area.

Go to Little Rock page.

Lowell, Arkansas
News Article - January 21, 2015

ORDINANCE NO. 952

Section 1. Direct-point chaining or tethering of dogs to a stationary object is prohibited. Dogs may be restrained by means of a trolley system, or a tether attached to a pulley on a cable run, or to an anchoring device, sufficient in strength to restrain the dog, to a tangle-resistant tether if the following conditions are met:
•Only one dog may be tethered to each cable run.
•The tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog, with enough room between the collar and the dog’s throat through which two fingers may fit. Choke collars and pinch collars are prohibited for purposes of tethering a dog to a cable run, or other tangle-resistant restraint device.
•There must be a swivel on both ends of the tether to prevent tangling of the tether.
•The tether and cable run, or other anchoring device with a tangle-resistant tether, must be of adequate size and strength to effectively restrain the dog. The size and weight of the tether must not be excessive, as determined by the animal services officer, considering the age, size and health of the dog.
•The cable run must be at least ten feet in length and mounted at least four feet and no more than seven feet above ground level, and if an anchoring system is used, the tangle-resistant tether must be at least ten (10′) feet in length.
•The length of the tangle-resistant tether from the cable run, or anchoring device, to the dog’s collar should allow access to the maximum available exercise area and should allow continuous access to water and shelter. The trolley system or anchoring device and tangle-resistant tether must be of appropriate configuration to confine the dog to the owner’s property, to prevent the tether from extending over an object or an edge that could result in injury of strangulation of the dog, and to prevent the tether from becoming entangled with other objects or animals.

Springdale, Arkansas
Read ordinance
Sec. 14-36. - Tethering animals prohibited.

Direct-point chaining or tethering of dogs to a stationary object is prohibited. Dogs may be restrained by means of a trolley system, or a tether attached to a pulley on a cable run, if the following conditions are met:

(1) Only one dog may be tethered to each cable run.
(2) The tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog, with enough room between the collar and the dog's throat through which two fingers may fit. Choke collars and pinch collars are prohibited for purposes of tethering a dog to a cable run.
(3) There must be a swivel on at least one end of the tether to minimize tangling of the tether.
(4) The tether and cable run must be of adequate size and strength to effectively restrain the dog. The size and weight of the tether must not be excessive, as determined by the animal services officer, considering the age, size and health of the dog.
(5) The cable run must be at least ten feet in length and mounted at least four feet and no more than seven feet above ground level.
(6) The length of the tether from the cable run to the dog's collar should allow access to the maximum available exercise area and should allow continuous access to water and shelter. The trolley system must be of appropriate configuration to confine the dog to the owner's property, to prevent the tether from extending over an object or an edge that could result in injury or strangulation of the dog, and to prevent the tether from becoming entangled with other objects or animals.

Texarkana, Arkansas

March 20, 2017

No animal shall be tethered to a stationary object. Dogs may be restrained by means of a trolley system, provided that certain requirements are met.

Section 5-6 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Texarkana, Arkansas, is hereby deleted in its entry and the following is substituted therefore:

A. Confinement of Dogs. Any person owning, possessing or keeping a dog or dogs, whether vaccinated or unvaccinated, licensed or unlicensed, shall confine such dog or dogs within an adequate fence or enclosure within a house, garage or other building that provides adequate ventilation and protection from environmental conditions.
B. Confinement of Cats. Any person owning, possessing or keeping a cat or cats, whether vaccinated or unvaccinated, licensed or unlicensed, shall confine such cat or cats to his or her property in a manner adequate to prevent the cat from running at large.
C. No person shall direct-point chain or tether a dog to a stationary object. Dogs may be restrained by means of a trolley system or a tether attached to a pulley on a cable run only if the following conditions are met:

Only one (1) dog may be tethered to each cable run.
1.The tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog, with enough room between the collar and the dog’s throat through which two (2) fingers may fit. Choke collars and pinch collars are prohibited for purposes of tethering a dog to a cable run.
2.There must be a swivel on a least one (1) end of the tether to minimize tangling of the tether.
3.The tether and cable run must be of adequate size and strength to effectively restrain the dog. The size and weight of the tether must not be excessive, as determined by the Animal Welfare Officer, considering the age, size and health of the dog.
4.The cable run must be at least ten (10) ft. in length and mounted at least four (4) ft. and no more than eight (8) ft. above ground level.
5.The length of the tether from the cable run to the dog’s collar should allow access to the maximum available exercise area and should allow continuous access to water and shelter. The trolley system must be of appropriate configuration to confine the dog to the owner’s property, to prevent the tether from extending over an object with an edge that could result in injury or strangulation of the dog, and to prevent the tether from becoming entangled with other objects or animals.

Notification of any violation of this provision shall be in the form of written warning to any one of: any owner of the animal, any person found to be in possession of the animal, or any owner or occupant of the property upon which the violation is occurring, whereupon a period of ten (10) days will be allowed for compliance.
If compliance is not met on or before the expiration of such period, the dog may be removed by Animal Welfare Officers.
If, for any reason, any portion of this ordinance should be held to be invalid, such invalidity shall in no way affect the remaining portions thereof which are valid, but said valid portions shall be and remain in full force and effect.

Hemet, California
Sec. 10-39. Prohibited acts.
(10) For any person owning or having possession, charge, custody or control of any dog to cause or permit or allow the dog to be staked out in such a manner that the rope or other attachment by which such animal is tethered permits the animal to be or to go beyond the boundaries of the unenclosed private lot or land.

Freemont, California
Chained animals must be free from danger of becoming entangled, and must have access to food, water, and shelter.

Sec. 3-5606. Animal restraints.
When a chain, rope or other restraint is used to tether an animal, it shall be so placed or attached that it cannot become entangled with the chain of any other animal or with any other object. It shall be affixed by means of a well-fitted collar, and shall be at least four times the length of the animal as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail and shall allow the animal convenient access to food, water and shelter adequate to protect the animal from the elements.

Sec. 3-51434. Restraint requirements for dangerous dogs.
When confined in an enclosure the dog shall be provided access to adequate shelter from the elements, food, and water and shall not be tethered.

San Diego, California
This ordinance pertains to dogs who are kept as “guard dogs.”

SEC. 62.685. GUARD DOGS.

(a)GENERAL PROVISIONS. Any "Guard Dog Operator," in addition to any requirements of The Dog Act of 1969 (Health And Safety Code 25970 et seq.), shall:
(7) In addition, ensure that each dog, whether or not on duty, is visited at least once every twelve (12) hours and that each dog has adequate food, water and shelter. Any dog which is sick or injured shall be provided proper care and attention and, if on duty, shall be removed from the site. Dogs shall not be kept or maintained on a chain or tether. Dogs shall not be kept or maintained, for any period of time, in an enclosure area with less than twelve feet by five feet (12' x 5') floor space or in any enclosure area without adequate ventilation.

San Francisco, California
January 11, 2005

Dogs may be tethered provided they have a nonchoke collar and pulley system. The tether must be at least 10 feet in length and allow the dog access to food, water, and shelter but free of obstructions. The ordinance also gives requirements for shelter, water, and adequate exercise.

Sections 41.12 and 41.13
4. Confinement Requirements
Though highly discouraged, tethering is only acceptable if:
The tether is attached to a stake in the ground with a pulley like system.
The tether is attached to the dog by a non-choke type collar or body harness at least 10 feet in length which would allow the dog access to food, water and shelter, but free of obstructions.

San Jose, California
“Vicious dogs” may not be tethered as a sole means of confinement.

7.08.1120 Requirements for muzzling and leashing.
When a vicious dog is even temporarily other than indoors or in a securely enclosed, escapeproof, locked kennel, pen or other place which complies with Section 7.08.1110, the owner or person with a right to control the dog shall keep the dog:
A. On a leash not to exceed three feet in length. The leash must be capable of restraining four times the weight of the dog. The leash must be attached to an escapeproof commercial quality walking harness which fastens securely across the shoulders and midchest encompassing the rib area and upper abdomen of the dog. No neck collar of any type or material will be sufficient to satisfy the above requirements. Vicious dogs shall not be leashed or tethered at any time to inanimate objects such as trees, posts, or buildings except when the dog is inside a securely enclosed, escapeproof locked kennel or pen.

Larimer County Colorado
http://www.co.larimer.co.us/policies/animal.pdf

2009

Sec. 6-80. Improper care or treatment prohibited:
(a) No owner or keeper of a pet animal shall fail to provide that pet animal with sufficient good and wholesome food and water, proper shelter and protection from the weather, veterinary care, when necessary, and such other care as is customary and necessary for the pet animal's health and well-being, considering the species, breed and type of animal.
(b) No person shall beat, cruelly ill-treat, torment, overwork or otherwise abuse or needlessly kill a pet animal or cause, instigate or permit any dogfight, cockfight, bullfight or other combat between pet animals or between pet animals and humans, nor shall any person transport or confine a pet animal in or upon any vehicle in such a manner as to endanger the animal's health or life.
(c) No owner or keeper of a pet animal shall abandon such pet animal.
(d) A person may not restrain a dog by a fixed point chain or tether for a period of time or under conditions that an animal control officer or animal cruelty investigator deems harmful or potentially harmful to the animal.
Examples of improper chaining or tethering include, but are not limited to, the following:
(1) Using a chain or tether made of rope, twine, cord or similar material.
(2) Using a chain or tether that is less than 10 feet in length and/or does not have swivels on both ends. All chains or tethers must be attached to the animal by means of a properly fitting harness or collar of not less than one inch in width. A person may not wrap a chain or tether around a dog’s neck.
(3) Using a chain or tether that is too heavy or too big for the size and weight of the animal so that the animal is prohibited from moving about freely.
(4) Allowing an animal to be chained or tethered such that the animal is not confined to the owner’s property or such that the chain or tether can become entangled and prevent the animal from moving about freely, lying down comfortably or having access to adequate food, water and shelter.
(5) Using a chain as a primary collar. All collars used for the purpose of chaining or tethering an animal must be made of nylon, cotton, leather or similar material.

Bonita Springs, Florida
March 24, 2009


Sec. 8-5. – Cruelty to animals.

(l) Tethering. No person shall under any circumstances tether or otherwise confine any animal in a manner that is injurious to the animal’s health, safety and well-being. Proper and humane tethering includes, but is not limited to, the following:
(1) Collars used to attach an animal should be comfortable and properly fitted as to not choke the animal. The use of choke chains is prohibited.
(2) The tethering shall not extend over an object or edge in such a manner that could result in strangulation of or injury to the animal. The length of the tether must be a minimum of ten feet, or at least three times the length of the animal measured from the animal’s nose to the base of its tail, whichever is greater, unless the tether is being used to secure the animal to the bed of an open vehicle or pickup truck. Restraints should allow the animal to move about and lie down comfortably.
(3) Tethering of an animal is prohibited during natural disasters such as floods, fires, tornados or hurricanes.

Lee County, Florida
February 4, 2014

SECTION 5: CRUELTY TO ANIMALS

L. TETHERING

No person shall under any circumstances tether or otherwise confine any animal in a manner that is injurious to the animal’s health, safety and well-being. Proper and humane tethering includes, but is not limited to the following:
1.Collars used to attach an animal should be comfortable and properly fitted as to not choke the animal. The use of choke chains is prohibited.
2.The tether shall not extend over an object or edge in such a manner that could result in strangulation of or injury to the animal. The length of the tether must be a minimum of ten (10) feet, or at least three times the length of the animal measured from the animal’s nose to the base of its tail, whichever is greater, unless the tether is being used to secure the animal to the bed of an open vehicle or pick-up truck. Restraints should allow the animal to move about and lie down comfortably.
3.Tethering of an animal is prohibited during natural disasters such as floods, fires, tornados or hurricanes.

Leon County, Florida
February 12, 2013

Sec. 4-37. – Humane care required.
e) Tethering. No person shall under any circumstances tether or otherwise confine any animal in a manner that is injurious to the animal’s health, safety and well-being. Proper and humane tethering includes, but is not limited to the following:
(1) Collars used to attach an animal should be comfortable and properly fitted. The use of choker collar or chain is prohibited.
(2) The tether shall not extend over an object or edge in such a manner that could result in strangulation of or injury to the animal. The length of the tether must be a minimum of six feet, or at least three times the length of the animal measured from the animal’s nose to the base of its tail, whichever is greater, unless the tether is being used to secure the animal to the bed of an open vehicle or pick-up truck. The tether must have a swivel at both ends to prevent entanglement. Restraints should allow the animal to move about and lie down comfortably. Pulley, running line, or trolley systems must be at least 15 feet in length and less than seven feet above the ground.
(3) Tethering of an animal is prohibited during severe weather events and natural disasters such as flood, fires, tornadoes, hurricanes or blizzard.
(4) No animal shall be confined to a vacant or abandoned structure or vacant property.
(5) The weight or gauge of any tether or chain shall not be more than one-eighth of the animal’s weight. Logging chains and vehicle tow chains are prohibited. No person shall add any weight to an animal collar, harness, chain or tether.
(6) Animals are not to be tethered outside during extreme weather events, including, but not limited to, extreme heat or cold, thunderstorms, lightning, tornadoes, tropical storms, hurricanes, or snow.
(7) The animal tethered must be at least six months of age. Puppies and kittens shall not be tethered.
(8) The animal tethered must not be sick or injured.

LaGrange, Georgia

Sec. 10-30-31. Tethering of Dogs.

(b) It shall be the duty of every owner of a dog to ensure that the dog is securely and humanely enclosed within a proper enclosure as a means of primary restraint. Such enclosure must be securely locked at any time the dog is left unattended. When outside the proper enclosure but on the owner’s property, it shall be the duty of every owner of a dog to ensure that the dog is humanely secured by a leash or lead and under the control of a responsible and competent person; or off leash but under the direct control of a responsible and competent person who is physically present with the dog, provided that such dog is obedient to that person’s command.

(c) Any dog that is housed outside of its owner’s house shall be housed in a proper enclosure that complies with the provisions of this Code.

(d) Direct point chaining or tethering of a dog is prohibited.

(e) As a secondary means of restraint to a proper enclosure, a dog may be attached to a running cable line or trolley system providing that:

(1) Only one (1) dog may be attached to each running cable line or trolley system;

(2) Tethers and cables attaching the dog to the running cable line or trolley system must be made of a substance which cannot be chewed through by the dog and shall not weigh more than twenty-five percent (25%) of the body weight of the dog tethered;

(3) A running cable line or trolley system must have a swivel installed at each end and be attached to a stationary object that cannot be moved by the dog;

(4) The running cable line or trolley system must be at least ten (10) feet in length and positioned at sufficient distance from any other objects to prohibit the tangling of the cable / lead line; must not extend over an object or an edge that could result in injury of strangulation of the dog; and must be of sufficient distance from any fence so as to prohibit the dog from access to the fence; (5) The length of the lead line from the running cable line or trolley system to the dog’s harness should allow access to the maximum available exercise area and allow the animal free access to food, water, and shelter. In no event shall the length of the lead line allow for access to less than the square footage required within a proper enclosure as defined in subsection (a) above; or

(6) The lead line must be attached to a properly fitted harness not used for the display of a current rabies tag and other identification. Collars are prohibited for the purpose of securing a dog to a running cable line or trolley system.

(f) If an electronic animal confinement system is used to confine a dog, it shall provide a properly fitted and working signal device that will be worn by the dog to be enclosed

Lowndes County, Georgia

March 22, 2016

SECTION XXI. CHAINING; TETHERING

a. It shall be unlawful for any person to chain or tether an animal to a stationary object.

b. An animal may be tethered to a cable run system provided:
1.The cable is securely affixed between two stationary objects.
2.The cable is at least 15 feet in length.
3.The cable is a minimum of five feet above the ground.
4.The cable is made of galvanized wire, other composite material, or metal.
5.The tether is at least ten feet in length.
6.The tether is made of galvanized wire, other composite material, metal, or nylon.
7.The tether is attached to the cable with a swivel.
8.The length and weight of tether are appropriate for the animal’s size, age, species, breed, and physical condition in order to allow the animal to move freely along the length of the cable. The weight of the tether shall not exceed ten percent of the animal’s body weight. Guidelines for proper tether weight and length can be obtained from Animal service.
9.The tether is attached to the animal by means of a swivel attached to (i) a harness or (ii) a collar not less than one-half inch for animals up to 20 pounds and one inch for animals exceeding 20 pounds in order to prevent the collar from becoming embedded in the animal. The tether may not be attached to a slip-type choke or pinch type collar.
10.The length of the tether may not allow the animal to go beyond the limits of the property of the owner.
11.The tether allows the animal to move freely and to lie comfortably.
12.The subject area is free of obstructions with which the tether could become entangled.
13.The animal has easy access to adequate food and water.
14.The animal has easy access to shelter.
15.The subject area is well drained.
16.Only one animal is attached to each cable run.
17.An animal is not tethered to a cable run during extreme weather, including but not limited to, freezing temperatures, lightening, tornadoes, tropical storms, thunder storms, or hurricanes.
18.The animal is not tethered to a cable run for any duration or durations likely to cause physical or mental suffering.

Statham, Georgia
2013

Dogs may not be tethered, although they may be attached to overhead trolley lines.

Addendum to Animal Control Ordinance for City of Statham
Tethering Prohibited
1.No person shall, at any time, fasten, chain, or tie any dog or cause such dog to be fastened, chained or tied while such dog is on the dog owner’s property or on the property of the dog owner’s landlord, or on any property within the corporate limits of the City of Statham.
2.…
3.Nothing in this ordinance shall be construed to prohibit owners from allowing dogs to be attached to overhead runs (i.e. leash or chain attached to an overhead wire at least 15 feet long, that allows the dog to move unhindered).

Aurora, Illinois
This ordinance specifies what the minimum length of the tethering device must be and prohibits devices that can become entangled.

Sec. 9-22. No person or owner shall treat any animal cruelly in any manner, including, but not limited to the following: By tethering any animal to a fixed object unless such chains, ropes or leashes are so placed or attached that they cannot become entangled with another animal or object, and shall be of sufficient length in proportion to the size of the animal to allow the animal proper exercise and convenient access to food, water and shelter. Such tethering shall be located so as not to allow such animal to trespass on public property or private property belonging to others, nor in such a manner as to cause harm or danger to persons or other animals.

Noblesville, Indiana
December 28, 2004

This ordinance allows dogs to be tethered as long as tethers are at least 10 feet long, terminate in swivels at both ends, attach to a proper collar or harness, and are connected to a running line at least 10 feet long and less than 7 feet above the ground. Dogs tethered in any other manner may not be tethered more than eight total hours in any 24 hour period.

Chapter 90.03 Hitching or Tying: No animal shall be hitched, tied or fastened by any rope, chain or cord that is directly attached to the animal’s neck. Animals that must be tied, hitched or fastened to restrain them must wear a properly fitted collar or harness made of leather or nylon not of the choker type. This is not to prohibit the proper use of choke collars in the training of animals. A person may not restrain an animal by a fixed point chain or tether less than 10 feet for more than eight hours in a 24 hour period unless the chain or tether is at least 10 feet long, has swivels at each end and is attached to a pulley or trolley mounted cable at least 10 feet in length and mounted no more than seven feet above ground level. Any outside caged or penned animal or dog shall be kept in a cage or pen no less than 10x10x4 feet in size, equaling a 100 square foot roaming area. Violations shall be considered a Class A infraction.

Baton Rouge, Louisiana
This ordinance specifies where an animal can be tethered and how long the tethering device must be.

Sec. 14:203. Minimum requirements for dog and cat pens and yards.
(6) Tethers used to restrict the animal to the confines of its owner's property shall be minimum length of five (5) times the length of the animal, as measured from the nostrils to the base of the tail. Tethers shall restrict the animal to its owner's property. The area shall be kept free of obstructions to prevent entanglement. No tethered animal shall be allowed to endanger the health, safety or welfare of others.

Ouachita, Louisiana
Tethered animals must have access to food, water and shelter.

Sec. 3-46. Crimes; misdemeanors.
(4) Cruelty to animals. The following acts and omissions constitute cruel treatment to animals; therefore, it shall be a misdemeanor for any person, firm or corporation to: d. Tether, confine, or restrain any animal in such a way as to permit said animal to become entangled in such tether, or render said animal incapable of consuming food and water for more than twenty-four (24) hours; or from obtaining shelter from the elements.

St. Charles Parish, Louisiana
This ordinance specifies a minimum length for the tethering device, prohibits tethers that may entangle an animal, and prohibits tethering where an animal may pose a threat to public safety.

Sec. 4-13. Dogs on tethers.
If a dog is confined on a tether, the tether shall be equipped with swivel ends and be positioned to prevent tangling and/or hanging. The tethered dog shall wear a properly fitted harness or buckle-type collar. A properly installed and positioned running line is preferable to a stationary tether. The line must be at least five times the length of the dog. The dog cannot be tethered in an area which would pose a threat to public safety and health.

Kansas City, Missouri
Sec. 14-16. Abuse or neglect of animals.
(a) Adequate care required; inspections. No owner or keeper of an animal shall fail to provide the animal with adequate care, adequate food, adequate water, adequate health care and adequate shelter. Such shelter shall be clean, dry, shaded and compatible with the condition, age and species. An animal must also have the opportunity for adequate daily exercise as determined by the supervisor of animal control. This requires that an owner must offer some freedom from continuous chaining, stabling and tethering. Any restraint placed on an animal must be such that it prevents the animal from being tangled or injured by the restraint. Grooming of animals is also required so that they are free from dangerous matting which can affect their health. The area where animals are kept must also be kept free from unsanitary conditions, vermin-harboring debris, junk or any other dangerous protuberances which can provide an opportunity for injury or a danger to the animal's health. Any owner, keeper or harborer of an animal in this city, by the act of owning, keeping or harboring such animal, does thereby authorize the supervisor of animal control to enter the yard where such animal is kept if the supervisor of animal control reasonably believes that the animal is kept in an unlawful, negligent, cruel, abusive or inhumane manner, and to examine such animal and to seize and impound such animal at the municipal animal shelter when, in the examiner's opinion, it is being kept in an unlawful, negligent, cruel, abusive or inhumane manner. If an animal control officer cannot view and observe the animal in plain sight, the owner, keeper or harborer, upon request, must exhibit for inspection any and all animals which are not in plain sight but are on or inside the premises.

Lincoln, Nebraska
August 22, 1988 - Animals may not be tethered unattended in public, on sidewalks, or on streets.

6.04.330 Tethered Animals.
It shall be unlawful for any person to tether, chain, or fasten any animal in such a manner as to permit it to be upon any public sidewalk or street or to leave it unattended while tethered, chained, or fastened on public property. It shall be unlawful to tether, chain, or fasten an animal in such a manner as to cause it injury or pain or not permit it to reach shelter, food, and water.

Dennis Township, New Jersey
August 17, 2004

This ordinance requires that tethers be at least 15 feet long, be lightweight, remain tangle free, and attach to proper collars or harnesses. Tethers must allow dogs' free movement and access to a doghouse.

Section 88-13. Chaining or Tethering of Dogs.

Dogs must be able to move freely when chained or tethered. The size of the tether or chain must be a minimum of 15 linear feet and shall remain tangle free. Dogs must be equipped with properly fitted harness or buckle type collars. The tether or chain shall be constructed of lightweight cable. A doghouse shall be accessible to dogs that are chained or tethered.

Buncombe County, North Carolina

December 7, 2010

Sec. 6-58. – Animal care.

(o) It shall be unlawful to tether an animal to a stationary object for a period of time or under conditions that an officer or animal cruelty investigator deems harmful or potentially harmful to the animal. Tethering may be allowed in certain cases if there is no sign of obvious neglect and the animal is not exhibiting health or temperament problems. Examples of improper tethering include, but are not limited to the following:
•Using a length or weight of tether that is not appropriate for the size, weight and age of the animal. An appropriate restraint must be a minimum of four times the length from the tip of the animal’s nose to the tip of the animal’s tail and shall be no less than 15 feet.
•Using a tether that does not have swivels on both ends. All tethers must be attached to the animal by means of a properly fitting harness or collar of not less than one inch in width made of nylon or leather.
•Allowing an animal to be tethered such that the animal is not confined to the owner’s property or such that the tether can become entangled and prevent the animal from moving about freely, lying down comfortable or having access to adequate food, water and shelter.

Burke County, North Carolina

Sec. 6-3. Animal Cruelty

(1) Animal Cruelty: In addition to what is prohibited by NC State Statute the following shall be prohibited:

(2) Chaining or tethering an animal to a stationary object for a period of time or under conditions that are harmful or potentially harmful to the animal. Examples of improper chaining or tethering include, but are not limited to, the following:
a. Using a length or weight of a chain or tether that is not appropriate for the size, weight, and age of the animal.
b. Using a chain or tether than is less than (8) eight feet in length and/or does not have swivels on one end. All chains or tethers must be attached to the animal by means of a properly
fitting harness or collar.
c. Allowing an animal to be chained or tethered such that the animal is not confined to the owner’s property or such that the chain or tether can become entangled and prevent the animal from moving about freely, lying down comfortably or having access to adequate food, water and shelter.
d. Using a chain of any type as a primary collar. All collars used for the purpose of chaining or tethering an animal must be made of nylon or leather. Choke chains are intended for training purposes only and not to be used as a collar to tie the animal to a chain or tether made of rope, twine, cord, or similar material.
e. When it has been determined that an animal is housed or restrained less than (15) fifteen feet from a public street, road, sidewalk, or rite of passage constitutes a public nuisance, but the animal is not in the street, road, sidewalk, or rite of passage, the Animal Control Officer shall issue a notice to the owner directing the owner to move the animal. If the animal is found on a public street, road, sidewalk, or rite of passage and the owner is not at home or refuses to remove the animal from the street, road, sidewalk, or rite of passage, the animal may be seized and impounded.

Catawba County, North Carolina
(D) Chaining or tethering an animal to a stationary object for a period of time or under conditions that an animal control officer or animal cruelty investigator deems harmful or potentially harmful to the animal. Examples of improper chaining or tethering include, but are not limited to the following:
(1) Using a length or weight of a chain or tether that is not appropriate for the size, weight and age of the animal. Guidelines for the proper weight and length of chains or tethers can be obtained from the animal shelter or animal control
(2) Using a chain or tether made of rope, twine, cord or similar material.
(3) Using a chain or tether that is less than 10 feet in length and/or does not have swivels on both ends. All chains or tethers must be attached to the animal by means of a properly fitting harness or collar of not less than one inch in width.
(4) Using a chain or tether that exceeds ten percent of the animal’s body weight.
(5) Allowing an animal to be chained or tethered such that the animal is not confined to the owner’s property or such that the chain or tether can become entangled and prevent the animal from moving about freely, lying down comfortable or having access to adequate food, water and shelter.
(6) Using a chain as a primary collar. All collars used for the purpose of chaining or tethering an animal must be made of nylon or leather.

Chatham County, North Carolina
March 10, 2014


Sec. 91. 093 Humane restraint of non-vicious animals.
All dogs must be restrained. A dog is under restraint within the meaning of this chapter if it is:
(A) Kept within a house, garage, outbuilding or other secure structure on the owner’s property.
(B) Kept on the owner’s fenced in or enclosed property constructed so that the animal cannot escape by means of digging under or jumping over the fence or enclosure or otherwise becoming free unless freed by the owner or within an outside enclosure.
(C) Kept on the owner’s property within an area bounded by a posted electronic fence that is capable of keeping the animal within the area surrounded by electronic fence.
 

(D) Kept on the owner’s property by a tether equipped with a swivel on both ends and meeting the following minimum requirements for dogs:
(1) The tether shall be a minimum of fifteen feet in length and the line of the pulley system running line, trolley system or stake to which the tether is attached shall be made of either metal chain or coated steel cable.
(2) Tethers shall be attached to a buckle type collar or harness and under no circumstances shall the tether itself be placed directly around the dog’s neck. Tethers shall not be used in conjunction with training collars such as choke or pinch style collars.
(3) The weight of the tether shall not exceed ten percent of the total body weight of the dog but shall be of sufficient strength to prevent breakage.
(4) The tether, by design and placement, shall allow the dog a reasonable and unobstructed range of motion without the possibility of entanglement, strangulation or other injury. The tether shall allow the dog access to adequate food, water and shelter.
(5) A dog must be four months of age or older to be tethered.
(6) Only one dog shall be attached to a single tether.
(7) Pulley systems, running lines or trolley systems used shall be at least fifteen feet in length and no more than seven feet above the ground.
(8) No tether shall be affixed to a stationary object which would allow a dog to come within five feet of a property line.

Cornelius, North Carolina

March 21, 2016

This ordinance bans unattended tethering while providing requirements for legal attended tethering.
• 91.06 VIOLATIONS.

(G) Restraint of animals.

(2) Tethering. Domestic animals may not be tethered to a stationary object UNLESS it is attended by a responsible adult and all of the conditions numbered 1 through 9 are followed:
1.A tether must be equipped with a swivel on both ends.
2.A tether must be a minimum of 10 feet in length and be made of either metal chain or coated steel cable.
3.Tethers must be attached to a buckle type collar or harness worn by the domestic animal and under no circumstances shall the tether be placed directly around the domestic animal’s neck. Tethers are never to be used in conjunction with training collars such as a choke or pinch-style collars.
4.The weight of the tether must not exceed 10% of the total body weight of the domestic animal but shall be of sufficient strength to prevent breakage.
5.The tether by design and placement must allow the domestic animal a reasonable and unobstructed range of motion without the possibility of entanglement.
6.The domestic animal must be four months of age or older to be tethered.
7.Only one domestic animal may be attached to a single tether.
8.Pulley systems, running lines, and trolley systems may be used in conjunction with a tether.
9.Pulley systems, running lines or trolley systems shall be at least 10 feet in length and no more than seven feet above the ground.
10.The line of the pulley system, running line or trolley system to which the tether is attached shall be made of coated steel cable.
11.No tether shall be affixed to a stationary object which allows a domestic animal to come within 5 feet of any property line.

(3) Within the corporate limits of the town, animal control officers shall have the authority, provided in G.S. § 160A-186, to seize any animal in violation of this section. In carrying out and performing their lawful duties, this shall include the authority to enter upon private property, not including entry into a dwelling unit or other similar building, when the animal control officer has observed an animal running-at-large in violation of this section. Such entry upon private property shall not be deemed a trespass.

Greene County, North Carolina

February 21, 2005

Section 2-3-6. Adequate Feed, Water, and Shelter
1.Chaining or tethering an animal to a stationary object for a period of time or under conditions that an animal control officer or animal cruelty investigator deems harmful or potentially harmful to the animal is unlawful. Examples of improper chaining or tethering include, but are not limited to the following:
•Using a length or weight of a chain or tether that is not appropriate for the size, weight and age of the animal. Guidelines for the proper weight and length of chains or tethers can be obtained from the animal shelter or animal control;
•Using a chain or tether made of rope, twine, cord or similar material;
•Using a chain or tether that is less than 10 feet in length and/or does not have swivels on both ends. All chains or tethers must be attached to the animal by means of a properly fitting harness or collar or not less than 1 inch in width;
•Using a chain or tether that exceeds ten percent (10)% of the animal’s body weight;
•Allowing an animal to be chained or tethered such that the animal is not confined to the owner’s property or such that the chain or tether can become uncomfortable or will not allow access to adequate food, water and shelter;
•Using a chain as a primary collar. All collars used for the purpose of chaining or tethering an animal must be made of nylon or leather.

Greenville, North Carolina
This ordinance outlines what kind of tether may be used.

c. 4-5. Animal care generally.
(c) Any chain, leash, or similar device for animal restraint shall be designed and placed to prevent choking or injury to the animal. The restraining device shall be at least ten feet in length and placed on a swivel or on a chain run.

Surry County, North Carolina
August 1, 2016

ARTICLE VII. ANIMAL WELFARE
Section 3: Animal Welfare

a. Owners must provide adequate food, shelter, and water as defined in Article I.
b. Tethering: It shall be unlawful for any person to restrain a dog using a chain, wire, or other type of tethering device in a manner prohibited by this subsection.
c. No person shall tether, fasten, chain, tie, or restrain a dog, or cause such restraining of a dog, to a cable trolley system, that allows movement of the restraining device. During periods of tethering that are not unlawful under this subsection, (1) the length of the cable along which the tethering device can move must be at least ten feet; (2) the tethering device must be of such length that the dog is able to move 15 feet away from the cable perpendicularly; and (3) the tethering device must be detached in such manner as to prevent strangulation or other injury to the dog and entanglement with objects. During periods of lawful tethering under this subsection, tethers must be made of rope, twine, cord, or similar material with a swivel on one end or must be made of a chain that is at least 10 feet in length with swivels on both ends and which does not exceed 10% of the dog’s body weight. All collars or harnesses used for the purpose of the lawful tethering of a dog must be made of nylon or leather. No person shall tether a dog with a chain or wire or other device to, or cause such attachment to, any collar other than a buckle type collar or body harness. No person shall tether with a chain, wire or other device to a dog where the weight of the tethering device and the collar combined exceeds 10% of the dog’s body weight. No person shall tether with a chain or wire or other device a dog in such a manner that does not allow the dog access to adequate food, water or shelter. No person shall tether a sick, diseased and/or injured dog.

Akron, Ohio
April 6, 2015

92.05 – Cruelty to animals.
1.For the purpose of this section, “shelter” shall mean a man-made enclosure, windbreak, or sunshade or a natural wind break or sunshade that is developed from the earth’s contour, tree development, or vegetation.
2.No person shall:
3.Torture an animal, deprive one of necessary sustenance, unnecessarily or cruelly beat, needlessly mutilate or kill, or impound or confine an animal without supplying it during such confinement with a sufficient quantity of good wholesome food and water;
4.Impound or confine an animal without affording it, during such confinement, access to shelter from HEAT, COLD, wind, rain, snow or excessive direct sunlight if it can reasonably be expected that the animal would otherwise become sick or in some other way suffer. This subsection does not apply to animals impounded or confined prior to slaughter;
5.Carry or convey an animal in a cruel or inhumane manner; or
6.Keep animals, other than cattle, poultry, or fowl, swine, sheep or goats, in an enclosure without wholesome exercise and change of air, or feed cows on food that produces impure or unwholesome milk. Penalty, see § 92.99
7.IN ADDITION TO THE PENALTY PROVIDED FOR IN § 92.99, THE COURT MAY ORDER THE OFFENDER TO FORFEIT THE ANIMAL

North Royalton, Ohio
July 1, 1997
Chapter 618.05 ANIMAL CARE STANDARDS; CRUELTY TO ANIMALS.

6. Dogs continuously maintained on a restrictive chain, rope or other kind of tether shall be deemed to be improperly confined. However, tethering may be acceptable in certain cases where adequate daily socialization and exercise off the tether have been afforded and verified. If a dog is confined on a tether, excepting periods of time that are brief and incidental, the tether shall be at least fifteen feet in length and positioned to prevent tangling and hanging. The tether must be of proper weight for the dog's size to allow for the provisions set forth in paragraph (c)(1) hereof. Logging chains are prohibited for any dog. The tethered dog shall wear a properly fitted harness or buckle-type collar and be released from the tether at least twice daily for adequate exercise. A choker-chain on the neck of a tethered dog is prohibited. No other animals shall be tethered unless under the supervision of a custodian capable of handling the animal. Collars, harnesses, halters and the like shall be properly fitted to prevent discomfort or injury.

Abington, Pennsylvania
March 13, 2014

S 58-2. Rules and regulations for the tethering of dogs outdoors.
1.It shall be unlawful for any person to tether, fasten, chain, tie, restrain, or allow a dog in such person’s care or located on such person’s property to be fastened, chained, tied or restrained by means of a rope, chain, strap, or other physical restraint in a matter that:1.Deprives the dog from access to necessary sustenance or clean water; or
2.Deprives the dog from access to sanitary shelter which ill protect the animal from inclement weather in such manner as will allow the dog to remain dry and retain its proper bodily temperature; or
3.Prevents the dog from having the ability to rest in an area that is reasonably safe and sanitary; or
4.Prevents the dog from being able to move around an area that is reasonable in size, based on the size of the animal and the area that is otherwise available for the dog’s movement; or
5.Uses an anchor, latch or similar tethering device which enables the tether to become entangled around any object so as to limit the dog’s freedom from within the tethered area or causes the dog, or any of its appendages, to become entangled by the tether; or
6.Otherwise creates a condition that is cruel, unsafe, unsanitary, inhumane or otherwise creates an immediate danger to the life and health of such animal.

York County, South Carolina
October 15, 2012


Sec. 55.19 Restraint Requirements
1. The owner or keeper of every animal shall keep the animal under restraint at all times. If a responsible adult is physically outdoors with their animal on the property where the owner of the animal resides and the animal is under the owner’s direct control and is obedient to the owner’s commands, this section shall not apply during the duration of the time the animal is under the control of that person.

2. When a tether is utilized as a primary means of restraint, a responsible adult must be physically outdoors with their animal, and the animal must be under the owner’s direct control. The tether must be at least ten feet in length, have swivels on both ends, and allow the animal to utilize the entire 360 degree circular area designated by the tether. The tether must allow the animal free access to food, water, and shelter.

3. Any tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the dog and shall weigh no more than 10% of the dogs estimated body weight.

4. Tethering does not refer to periods when a dog is walked on a leash or restrained on a trolley system (Sec. 55.01.22). The primary usable trolley runner line must be suspended at least three feet above the animals head, with at least ten feet in length between two pulley stop points. The secondary line attached to animal shall have a rolling trolley freely movable a distance of at least ten feet on the primary trolley line with a spring/shock absorber attachment and swivels at both ends. The trolley system shall allow the animal unrestricted body movement and utilization of the entire area designated by the trolley system, with a minimum of five feet lateral movement for the animal on each side of the primary trolley line, as measured on the ground. The trolley system must allow the animal free access to food, water, and shelter. The trolley system must be of appropriate configuration to prevent escape of the animal, and confine the animal to the owner’s property. The primary trolley line shall be used to restrain only one animal at a time.

5. All collars used must be made of nylon, leather, or other durable and non-metallic material and must be fitted so as to not cause injury to the animal or embed itself in the animal’s neck.

6. Use of a chain, choke, or pinch collar as a primary collar is prohibited.

7. Any animal that is restrained must be a sufficient distance from any other objects or debris so as to prohibit any tangling of the restraint or from extension over an object or an edge that could result in injury or strangulation of the animal.

Nashville, Tennessee
June 23, 2015

Chapter 8.12

Section 1.
1.Pet tethering. For purposes of this subsection, “tether” means a cable, cord, or similar device used to attach an animal to a stationary device, but does not include chains. No person shall allow any animal to remain confined in such a manner as to unreasonably restrict the animal’s ability to move. No person shall allow any dog to remain tethered unless all of the following conditions are satisfied:
2.The tether is not unreasonably heavy in proportion to the weight of the animal.
3.A swivel is located at both ends of the tether and the tether is free of tangles.
4.The collar on the animal to which the swivel is attached is properly fitted and is a collar that is commonly recognized as a pet collar (choke and pinch collars are not permitted).
5.The tether is not less than fifteen feet in length.
6.Chains shall be prohibited for use as a tethering device.
7.The animal is not outside during a period of extreme weather, including without limitation a heat index of 95 degrees Fahrenheit (95°F) or above as determined by the National Weather Service, freezing temperatures, thunderstorms, or tornadoes.
8.The animal has access to water, shelter, and dry grounds at all times, and has access to adequate food.
9.The animal is at least six months of age and has a current rabies vaccination.
10.The animal is not sick, injured, or in heat (estrus).
11.Pulley, running line, or trolley systems are at least fifteen feet in length and are not less than six feet above ground.
12.If there are multiple animals, each animal must be tethered separately.
13.The tethering device shall allow the tethered dog to lie down comfortably at all positions of tether.

Abilene, Texas
May 24, 2004

Sec. 6-16. Care and humane treatment of animals.
It shall be unlawful for an owner or other person to:
…

(j) Tie or tether a dog or other animal to a stationary object for a period of time or in a location so as to create an unhealthy situation for the animal or a potentially dangerous situation for a pedestrian.
(1) “Unhealthy situation” shall include, but not be limited to:
(a) Tethering an animal in such a manner as to permit the animal access upon any public “right-of-way;”
(b) Tethering an animal in such a manner as to cause the animal injury or pain;
(c) Tethering an animal in such a manner that does not permit the animal to reach shelter, food, or water;
(d) Tethering an animal in such a manner that it is subject to attacks by persons or other animals, stinging bites from outdoor insects, or other similar hazards that pose an unreasonable threat of injury to the animal;
(e) Failing to remove waste from the tethered area on a daily basis;
(f) Using a choke-type collar to tether the animal.

(2) It shall be minimally required that the tether used must be at least ten (10) feet in length, equipped with swivel ends, positioned in such a manner as to prevent the animal from becoming entangled with any obstruction, from partially or totally jumping any fence, or from leaving any part of its owner’s property, and that is secured to the animal using a properly fitted collar or harness.

Corsicana, Texas
October 26, 2015

CHAPTER 2: ANIMAL CONTROL

ARTICLE 2.1900 RESTRAINT AND CONFINEMENT
1.Tying, staking or tethering an animal. Animals may not be tethered to a stationary object as a means of confinement.
•Any animal permitted to be kept within the City of Corsicana shall not be chained, tied, fastened, or otherwise tethered to any stationary or inanimate object as a means of confinement and restraint to property. First time violators of this provision may be given up to a three (3) day grace period without penalty to correct a violation of this provision. Violators holding a valid fence permit shall be given up to thirty (30) days to complete construction of a fence. Exception from penalty shall not be given in any case where the violation of the provision causes or contributes to the bodily injury of a person or animal. An animal tethered, not having food, not having water, or no [sic] having shelter shall be considered separate offenses under this provision and each violation shall carry a separate penalty.

Any exceptions due to emergency acts of God must be approved in writing by the Animal Control Officer.
•A person commits an offense if he uses a chain, rope, tether, leash, cable, or other device to attach an animal to a stationary object or trolley system. This section does not prohibit a person from walking an animal on a handheld leash
•It is a defense to prosecution under this section that:
•The animal is being tethered during a lawful animal event, veterinary treatment, grooming, training, or law enforcement activity; or
•The animal tethering is required to protect the safety or welfare of a person or the animal and the animal’s owner maintains direct supervision of the animal.

Lubbock, Texas

March 8, 2006

This ordinance prohibits the use of tethers that are less than 10 feet long, that are not equipped with swivel ends, and that do not allow the animal to reach shelter, food, and water. Tethers must not weigh more than one-fifth of the animal’s body weight and must attach to a properly fitted collar or harness rather than to a choke-type collar.

Section 4-7. Tethering Dogs and Other Animals.
It shall be unlawful for any person to tie or tether a dog or other animal to a stationary object for a period of time or in a location so as to create an unhealthy situation for the animal or a potentially dangerous situation for a pedestrian as determined by the City Enforcement Agent. The terms “unhealthy situation” and “potentially dangerous situation” shall include, but not be limited to the following:

(1) To tether any animal in such a manner as to permit the animal access upon any public right-of-way;
(2) To tether any animal in such a manner as to cause the animal injury or pain or not to permit the animal to reach shelter, food and/or water or otherwise create an unsafe or unhealthy situation;
(3) To tether any animal in such as manner as to permit the animal to leave the owner's property;
(4) To tether any animal in an area that is not properly fenced so as to prevent any person or child from entering the area occupied by said animal;
(5) To tether any pet animal in a manner whereby the animal is subject to harassment, stings or bites from outdoor insects, or attacks by other animals;
(6) To tether any pet animal with a tether that is less than ten (10) feet in length;
(7) To tether any animal with a tether that is not equipped with swivel ends;
(8) To tether any animal in such a manner that does not prevent the animal from becoming entangled with any obstruction, from partially or totally jumping any fence, or from leaving part of its owner’s property.
(9) To fail to remove waste from the tethered area on a daily basis;
(10) To tether any animal without using a properly fitted collar or harness;
(11) To use choke-type collars to tether any animal; or
(12) To use a tether that weighs more than one fifth (1/5) of the animal’s body weight.

Parker County, Texas

Section 5.3 Tethering
(a) Because of significant increase in aggression that occurs when dogs are tethered, it is unlawful to tether or chain a dog as a means of restraint except for temporary periods not to exceed 20 minutes in duration and no more than 5 times a day.
(b) Exception: A dog may be tethered by attaching the end of the tethering chain or rope to a heavy line, heavy wire or cable of at least 40 feet in length and the ends of which are in turn attached to solid anchoring posts or other devices or structures at a height that is sufficient to prevent the line, wire or cable from obstructing the passage of humans and from presenting a hazard to humans and which allows the line, wire or cable to run parallel to the surface of the ground. The tethering must be done in such manner as permits the dog to move freely up and down the parallel line, wire or cable. The tethering chain or rope must be of a length that permits the dog to move freely to a distance of at least 10 feet on either side of the fixed line, wire or cable.
(c) It shall be unlawful to tether a dog, even temporarily, in such proximity to the owner’s property line or a public road or path as would permit the dog to reach persons using the public road or path or to reach persons not on the property of the owner or to come within 50 feet of such persons. It is unlawful to use a tethered dog as a guard dog, and to leave a dog tethered in a location to which children has access.

Richland Hills, Texas
Richland Hills, Texas
July 8, 2008

Sec. 6-80. – Tethering of animals.
(a) No person shall tether an unattended animal by any means on any public property such as city parks or utility easements, or private property accessible to the public, such as undeveloped lots or unfenced yards, or any other plot or tract where the public has unrestricted access.
(b) No person shall tether an animal without providing unrestricted, continuous access to shade and water.
(c) No person shall tether an animal for more than three hours without providing unrestricted, continuous access to a wind and moisture proof shelter.
(d) No person shall tether an animal in such a way that the tethering device can become tangled around trees, poles or other obstacles and prevent the access to shade, water or shelter.

(e) No person shall leave an animal outside and unattended by use of a tether that unreasonably limits the animal’s movement:
(1) Between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.;
(2) Within 500 feet of the premises of a school; or
(3) In the case of extreme weather conditions.

(f) A tether unreasonably limits an animal’s movements if the tether:
(1) Uses a collar that is a pinch-type, prong-type, or choke-type or that is not properly fitted to the animal;
(2) Is a length shorter than the greater of:
a. Five times the length of the animal’s nose to the base of the animal’s tail, or
b. Ten feet.
(3) Is in an unsafe condition; or
(4) Causes an injury to the animal.

(g) Subsection (e) of this section shall not apply to:
(1) An animal tethered to a running line, pulley, or trolley system and that is not tethered to the running line, pulley, or trolley system by a means of a pinch-type, prong-type, choke-type, or improperly fitted collar.
(2) An animal tethered for a reasonable period, not to exceed three hours in a 24-hour period, and no longer than is necessary for the owner to complete a temporary task that requires the animal to be tethered;
(3) An animal tethered while the owner is engaged in, or actively training for, an activity that is conducted pursuant to a valid license issued by the state if the activity for which the license is issued is associated with and requires the use or presence of the animal;
(4) An animal tethered while the owner is engaged in conduct directly related to the business of shepherding or herding cattle or livestock; or
(5) An animal tethered while the owner is engaged in conduct related to the business of cultivating agricultural products, if the use of the tether is reasonably necessary for the safety of the animal.
(Ord. No. 810-97, § 15(F), 1-28-1997; Ord. No. 1119-08, § 3, 7-8-2008)

Texas City, Texas
March 7, 2007

ARTICLE II. – DOGS AND CAT

Sec. 18-46. – Prohibition against the chaining or tethering of dogs and mandating that dog enclosures must provide 150 square feet of space.
(a) Any person owning and/or controlling dogs whether vaccinated or unvaccinated licensed or unlicensed, shall not allow said animal to be tied or chained to dog houses, or other stationary objects.
(b) No person shall, at any time, fasten, chain, or tie any dog or cause such dog to be fastened, chained or tied while such dog is on the dog owner’s property, or on the property of the dog owner’s landlord, or on any property within the limits of the City of Texas City.
(c) Any dog confined within a fenced yard must have an adequate space for exercise based on a dimension of at least 150 square feet per dog. Provided, further that where dogs are kept or housed on property without a fenced yard, the owner of such dogs or persons have custody of such dogs shall provide an enclosure for such dogs meeting the 150 square foot per dog dimensions. Such enclosure shall be constructed of chain link or similar type materials with all four sides enclosed. The enclosure shall be sufficient height to prevent the dog from escaping from such enclosure. The top of such enclosure shall be covered with materials to provide the dog with shade and protection from the elements.
(d) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit owners or others walking dogs with a hand held leash.
(e) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit owners from allowing dogs to be attached to over head runs (i.e. leash or chain attached to an over head wire at least ten feet long, that allows the dog to move unheeded.)
If any person violates any provision of this section, it shall constitute a misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be subject to a fine in accordance with the general penalties set forth in chapter 1, section 1-7 of the Code of Ordinances.

Weatherford, Texas
February, 2007

Section 3.102 Tethering of animals: A person commits an offense if he tethers, chains or otherwise secures an animal by or under any of the following methods or circumstances:

1) To tether an animal in such a way that it is capable of moving within 15 feet of any public right of way, park, or other public land, including sidewalks, or within five (5) feet of any privately or commercially owned property line when such tether or line is stretched to its full length;
2) To tether any animal in such a manner as to cause the animal injury or pain or not to permit the animal to reach shelter, food and or water or otherwise create an unsafe or unhealthy situation;
3) To tether any animal in such a manner as to permit the animal to leave the owner’s property;
4) To tether any animal in a manner whereby the animal is subject to harassment, stings or bites from outdoor insects, or attacks by other animals;
5) To tether any animal with a tether that is not equipped with swivel ends and which is not also attached to a pulley or a trolley;
6) To tether any animal in such a manner that does not prevent the animal from becoming entangled with any obstruction, from partially or totally jumping any fence, or from leaving its owner’s property;
7) To fail to remove waste from the area within which the animal is tethered on a reasonable basis so as to avoid a health hazard;
8) To tether any animal without using a properly fitted collar or harness which prevents the tether from being directly wrapped around the animal’s neck;
9) To tether with a choke-type collar of any sort;
10) To use a tether which weighs more than 1/8 of the animal’s body weight.

Salt Lake County, Utah
June 5, 2010

8.08.130 – Tethering of dogs—Restrictions.
A. It is unlawful for an owner or handler of a dog to tether a dog in any manner that would cause injury or damage to the dog, or when restriction of freedom of movement would endanger a dog. A tether must be of sufficient length to provide the dog with adequate space. Each dog tethered in violation of this section shall constitute a separate offense.
B. It is unlawful for an owner or handler of a dog to tether a dog for longer than ten hours within a twenty-four-hour period. Each dog tethered in violation of this section shall constitute a separate offense.
(Ord. No. 1663, § III, 1-5-2010)

Fauquier County, Virginia
June 11, 2015

Sec. 4-6. – Cruelty to animals; penalty.
1.Any person who confines a canine or canine crossbreed outside of a fully enclosed structure on any property by chain or tether to a trolley system, ground stake or other fixed object without the owner or other adult capable of controlling the animal present at all times:

(1) which animal is not at least six (6) months old; or
(2) which animal is female and in estrus; or

(3) at any time when the outdoor temperature is less than 25 degrees Fahrenheit or greater than 95 degrees Fahrenheit;

shall be subject to a civil penalty of $150 for each offense. These civil penalties may be charged once for each 24 hour period and each offense charged for every 24 hour period shall be deemed a separate and subsequent offense.

Washington, D.C.
Cruel chaining of dogs prohibited by the District’s “Freedom From Cruelty to Animals Protection Act.”

Chapter 106, Sec. 2 (b) For the purpose of this section, “cruelly chains” means attaching an animal to a stationary object or a pulley by means of a chain, rope, tether, leash, cable, or similar restraint under circumstances that may endanger its health, safety, or well-being. “Cruelly chains” includes, but is not limited to, the use of a chain, rope, tether, leash, cable, or similar restraint that: (1) Exceeds 1/8 the body weight of the animal; (2) Causes the animal to choke; (3) Is too short for the animal to move around or for the animal to urinate or defecate in a separate area from the area where it must eat, drink, or lie down; (4) Is situated where it can become entangled; (5) Does not permit the animal access to food, water, shade, dry ground, or shelter; or (6) Does not permit the animal to escape harm. (Act 13-418; June 1, 2001)

Linn, Wisconsin

Chapter 7.10 Tethering/Chaining of Dogs Restricted.
(a) A dog may be restrained by a fixed point chain or tether for no more than eight (8) hours in a twenty-four hour period.
(b) A dog may be exclusively restrained by a chain or tether provided that is at least ten (10) feet in length and attached to a pulley or trolley mounted on a cable which is also at least ten (10) feet in length and mounted no more than seven (7) feet above ground level.
(c) No chain or tether shall weigh more than 1/8 of the dog’s body weight.
(d) Any chain or tether shall be at least ten (10) feet in length and have swivels at both ends.
(e) Any chain or tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the animal.

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