Restraint of dogs by tethering.
Jacksonville Ordinance Code § 462.204
in effectSec. 462.204. - Restraint of dogs by tethering.
The City of Jacksonville recognizes that there is a clear link between dogs that are left tethered in one location and increased aggressiveness. In order to protect the safety and welfare of citizens and visitors, restraint by tethering may only be used provided all of the following conditions are met:
(a) The tether shall be of a size and weight that is reasonably necessary to safely restrain the dog without placing excessive strain or weight on the dog;
(b) The tether shall be at least 10 feet long and equipped with an operative swivel on at least one end of the line;
(c) The tether shall be attached to a properly fitted buckle-style collar or buckle-style harness made of nylon or leather and the collar or harness used must be appropriate for the size of the dog, sufficient to restrain the dog, and properly fitted to the dog;
(d) The tether may not be attached to a slip collar, choke collar, or prong collar;
(e) While tethered, the dog shall have access to potable water, dry ground, and shade or other shelter from the elements;
(f) The tethered dog shall be within the visual range of the owner, and the owner shall be located outside with the dog;
(g) The tethered dog must be at least one year of age or older and not sick or injured;
(h) A tethered dog shall not be outside during a period of extreme weather, including but not limited to, extreme heat or cold, tropical storms, hurricanes, thunderstorms, or tornadoes or in conditions unsafe for the age and breed of the dog;
(i) If multiple dogs are tethered, each dog must be tethered separately and in such a manner to ensure the dogs do not become entangled;
(j) No dog's tether may extend any closer than five feet from the perimeter fence or lot line; and
(k) Dogs are the only animals that may be restrained by tethering.
If an Animal Control Officer observes a violation of this Section, the officer is authorized to take reasonable measures to remove the dog(s) from the tether and take the tether(s) and the dog(s) to an animal services facility.
(Ord. 2004-259-E, § 1; Ord. 2010-527-E, § 3; Ord. 2013-164-E, § 1; Ord. 2025-811-E, § 2)
Source: City of Jacksonville, Ordinance Code and Charter and Related Laws (Municode Library, library.municode.com)URL: https://library.municode.com/fl/jacksonville/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TITXIIIHECO_CH462AN_PT2CRNEAN_S462.204REDOTEFetched: 10/27/2026