No statewide leash law

California dog leash laws.

◦ Summary

California has no statewide dog leash law. Leashing rules are set by individual cities and counties, and most municipalities require dogs to be leashed in public except inside designated off-leash dog parks.

◦ Notes & gotchas

Day-to-day leashing requirements live in city or county ordinances. Before relying on this page, look up the specific code for your municipality — it's the binding rule, not state law. Most US cities require dogs to be leashed in public unless inside a designated off-leash area. California Food and Agricultural Code § 30951 addresses confinement of dogs but does not impose a general statewide leash law. Cities and counties — notably Los Angeles County (LACC Title 10) and San Francisco — have their own detailed ordinances.

Last reviewed May 2026. Not legal advice — verify with your municipality before relying on it.