Los Angeles, California

September 26, 2005

This ordinance prohibits the tethering of dogs in most circumstances. A limited period of tethering is allowed provided that certain conditions are met.

SEC. 53.70. CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF DOGS

D.  Tethering. 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 houses, trees, fences, garages 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 met:

(1)  The tethering shall not be for more time than is necessary for the dog owner or custodian to complete a temporary task that requires the dog to be physically restrained for a reasonable period.

(2)  The dog must be tethered by a non-choke type collar or a body harness to a tether that is at least three (3) 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 entanglement.

(3)  The dog must have access to food, water and shelter as described above.

(4)  The dog shall be monitored periodically.

This section shall not affect the use of appropriate electronic means of confinement.