What Are California’s Dog Leash Laws?

As a dog owner in California, one of the most important responsibilities you have is ensuring your furry companion is properly leashed when out in public. Not only is it a matter of obeying the law, but it’s also crucial for the safety of your dog, other people, and their pets.

California’s dog leash laws are designed to prevent accidents, injuries, and conflicts that can arise when dogs are allowed to roam freely. Whether you’re strolling through a neighborhood park or exploring a hiking trail, understanding and adhering to these laws is essential.

Does California Have a Statewide Dog Leash Law?

California has no blanket leash law requiring all dog owners to use leashes or restrain their pets in public.

Instead, the state defers to its cities and counties to create distinct leash laws in their jurisdictions.

So, whether or not pet owners need to use a leash depends on their local laws and ordinances. And almost every city in California has leash laws that:

1. prohibit dogs from running freely in public
2. require leashes; or
3. ask owners to stay in control of their dogs at all times

For example, LA County prohibits dogs from “running at large on any public street, park or other public areas or upon private property other than that of the dog owner.” Los Angeles animal owners must also restrain their canines with a “substantial leash not exceeding six feet,” and the owner must be “a competent person” when taking the dog off the property.

California’s Malicious Mischief Laws

Cal. Pen. Code § 597.1 states that:

“Every owner, driver, or keeper of any animal who permits the animal to be in any building, enclosure, lane, street, square, or lot of any city, county, city, and county, or judicial district without proper care and attention is guilty of a misdemeanor.”

Under this law, owners must provide “proper care and attention” when their animals are in public spaces.

Vicious Animals

Additionally, owners of mischievous animals, as defined by the law, can be held criminally liable for failing to control animals they know to be potentially dangerous if that negligence leads to a person being killed or seriously injured despite taking due precautions.

Lastly, Cal. Pen. Code § 399.5 requires owners to keep dangerous dogs in a fence or kennel. Also, if the owner takes the dog out for walks, they must properly muzzle the animal, control their pet, or keep it on a leash.

Vicious dog owners can face misdemeanor or felony charges when their aggressive canine causes another individual or animal to suffer from serious injuries or even death.

Leash Laws and Private Property

While California’s dog leash laws primarily focus on public areas, they also extend to private property in certain situations.

You’re still responsible for controlling your pet and preventing injuries or damage on someone else’s private property, such as in a neighbor’s yard.

If a dog bite happens on your property, bite victims may hold you liable if you knew the dog was dangerous or were negligent in preventing the attack.

However, California’s strict liability rule generally does not apply to trespassers.

Penalties for Violating Dog Leash Laws

Violating Cal. Pen. Codes 399, 399.5, and 597.1 or local dog leash ordinances can have serious consequences.

Depending on the severity of the offense and the jurisdiction, penalties may include:

• Fines ranging from $100 to $10,000 or more.
• Misdemeanor charges which can result in jail time of less than a year and more significant penalties.
• Felony charges in extreme cases, such as when a dog causes severe injury or death while off-leash.

Repeated violations of leash laws also provoke increased penalties and even the potential loss of your dog. Always follow leash laws and be a responsible dog owner to avoid liability.

What to Do If You’re Bitten By a Dog “Running At Large”

Being bitten by a dog can be a traumatic experience, both physically and emotionally. If the incident involves a dog that was running at large, meaning it was not properly restrained or controlled by its owner, there are specific steps you should take to protect your well-being and legal rights:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should be the top priority. Even if the bite doesn’t seem severe, it’s essential to get medical treatment as soon as possible. Dog bites can lead to infections, scarring, and other complications if left untreated.
2. Report the Incident: Contact your local animal control authority or police department to report the dog bite incident. Provide them with as many details as possible, including the location, time, and description of the dog and its owner (if known).
3. Gather Evidence: If possible, take photographs of your injuries, the area where the incident occurred, and any other relevant evidence. Also, try to obtain the names and contact information of any witnesses who may have seen the incident.
4. Identify the Dog and Owner: If you can safely do so, try to identify the dog and its owner. This information will be crucial if you need to pursue legal action or report the incident to the appropriate authorities.
5. Seek Legal Advice: Consult with a personal injury attorney who specializes in dog bite cases. They can advise you on your legal rights and options, including potential compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

By taking these steps, you can protect your health, document the incident, and increase your chances of holding the negligent dog owner accountable for their actions. Remember, dog owners have a legal responsibility to keep their pets under control and prevent harm to others.

Hold Negligent Owners Accountable with LA Dog Bite Law

If you or someone you love was attacked by a dog in California, don’t wait – contact LA Dog Bite Law. Our dedicated attorneys are 100% focused on defending the rights of dog bite victims across the state. We’ll investigate your case, gather evidence of the owner’s negligence, and fight aggressively to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.

Don’t let a reckless owner’s disregard for leash laws leave you suffering. Call today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let LA Dog Bite Law be your voice and ensure justice is served.