Jacksonville City Tethering Ordinance (Restraint by Tethering)

Under the City of Jacksonville Animal Ordinance (Chapter 462, Section 462.204), tethering a dog or other animal in your yard is only allowed if specific conditions are met. The rules are intended to protect animal welfare and public safety:

• Material & Weight of Tether: Must be safe — not weighted down excessively or pose injury risks. Heavy welded chains are not permitted, and the tether may not weigh more than 1/8 of the animal’s body weight.
• Length & Setup: The tether must allow the animal to move at least 10 feet in all directions, with swivels on both ends and connected to an elevated line between two fixed points.
• Collars: Must use a buckle-style collar or harness (no prong or choke collars).
• Shelter & Supplies: The animal must have access to adequate shelter from weather, water, and food while tethered.
• Owner Presence: The animal must be within visual range of the owner, and the owner must be outside with the animal.
• Age & Health: The animal must be at least 1 year old and not sick or injured.
• Weather Restrictions: Tethering is not allowed during extreme weather (such as extreme heat or tropical storms).
• Separation from Other Animals: Each tethered animal must be separate and not able to tangle with others.
• Yard Boundaries: Tethered animals must stay at least 5 feet from property lines or fences.

• Leaving an animal tethered unattended (out of sight or without the owner physically present) does not comply.
• Heavy chains or improper collars are prohibited.
• Animals under 1 year old, sick, or injured cannot be tethered under this ordinance.
• Extreme weather situations restrict tethering due to welfare concerns.

• Animal Control Officers or Law Enforcement can investigate alleged tethering violations.
• Officers are authorized to remove an animal from an illegal tether and take it into custody if necessary.
• Violations may result in civil fines under Chapter 462 of the city code.
• If you witness a possible violation, you can report it to Jacksonville Animal Care & Protective Services or call 630-CITY (630-2489).