You are here
Animal Protection Ordinances
The City of Austin enforces ordinances related to the tethering of dogs and the selling of animals within City limits.
Unrestrained Dog Prohibited
Except in public areas where restraint of a dog is not required (off-leash dog parks), an owner or handler of a dog shall keep the dog under restraint. A person holding a dog on a leash or lead shall keep the dog under control at all times.
Tethering of Dogs
Leaving a dog alone on a chain or a tether is prohibited by city law (Austin City Code Section 3-4-2)
Fencing and Dog House Program
To assist citizens and dogs using a tether as a primary means of restraint, Animal Protection has a fencing assistance program. We will accept fencing donations and offer them to citizens who need to correct their tethering violations.
Need help with fencing or a doghouse? Download the Fencing Assistance Application or the Doghouse Assistance Application and fax it to 512-978-0617. Forms can also be completed online:
For questions, contact the Tethering Officer at (512) 978-0519 for more information.
Pet Trader Ordinance
In 2010, the Austin City Council passed an ordinance amending city code sections 3-1-1 Pet Trader, Off-Site Retail and Retail Sale, 3-2-3 Commerce in Live Animals and 3-7-2 relating to the requirements for the retail sale of cats and dogs. The ordinance prohibits the sale of any dog or cat, including puppies and kittens, at a location other than where the animal was bred.
Pet Trader Responsibilities
Any person selling any dog or cat (including puppies and kittens) within city limits must provide the consumer information required by the City and have the animal micro-chipped. The Pet Trader must also either pay a $50 fee to the Animal Shelter or have the animal spayed or neutered.
