What Are California’s Off-Leash Laws for Dogs?
Most California households include one extra furry family member. Dogs are often seen as kind companions, but it’s important to remember that instinct, nature, and even an uncomfortable environment can trigger aggression in even the smallest four-legged pooches.
This is especially true when dogs come face-to-face with other dogs or strangers on the street. Leashes are meant to keep dogs under control while enjoying a walk, but what happens when owners forgo leashes and let their dogs roam free?
Fortunately, California leash laws specify the legal consequences for off-leash pets. Learn more about these laws, what to do when encountering an off-leash dog, and why dog bite attorneys in California are here to help you after a traumatic dog bite incident.
Dog bite attorneys in California can help victims of dog bite accidents recover compensation.
Does California Law Allow Dogs Off a Leash?
California does not have a statewide dog leash law but instead leaves it up to local municipalities to enact their own leash laws.
However, California does have a law for the control of a vicious animal, which is California Penal Code § 399. This code states that a person who owns or has custody of a vicious animal and fails to take care of them or keep them under control, resulting in a fatality or serious bodily injury, could be charged with a misdemeanor or felony.
Laws Vary by County
Every county has its own separate set of dog leash rules, but most do focus on keeping pets secure to avoid any dog bite incidents occurring.
Los Angeles
The Leash Law: In Los Angeles County, dogs are prohibited from running at large on any public street, park, or other public areas, or upon private property belonging to anyone but their owners. A dog must be restrained by a leash not extending past 6 feet and must be in control of a competent person when off their property.
San Diego
The Leash Law: San Diego County states that dogs must be kept on a leash not exceeding 8 feet at all times (including city parks, canyons, and trails), unless the dog is confined to a residence, backyard, or designated off-leash area.
The city of San Diego offers more than 20 parks specifically designated as ‘off leash’ but clarifies that owners knowingly accept the risks and liability for their dogs’ actions upon entering the facility.
Orange County
The Leash Law: Orange County Code 4-1-45 states that no dog must be upon any public property unless the dog is restrained by a substantial chain or leash not exceeding 6 feet in length and controlled by a competent person.
There are designated dog parks throughout the county where being off a leash is allowed for pets.
Riverside
The Leash Law: Riverside County Code Section 6.08.140 states that it is unlawful for any owner or person in charge of any dog, whether licensed or unlicensed, to permit the dog to run at large.
At large by county standards means off the premises of its owner, custodian or caretaker and not under the physical restraint of a leash which is an appropriate size and material for the dog.
Kern
The Leash Law: Kern County Code Section 7.08.150 prohibits a dog from being on the private property of another person or on public property of a person owning, controlling, or occupying the property.
When on a property with consent, animals must be under restraint of leash or confined in an enclosed pen to protect people and other animals from injury.
California Dog Bite Law
While the state doesn’t have a statewide leash enforcement law, it does have a dog bite law.
California Civil Code 3342 states that the owner of any dog is liable for the damages suffered by any person bitten by the dog while in a public place or lawfully in a private place. Being lawfully in a private place means the person is there upon expressed or implied invitation of the owner.
When Do I Have a Case After a Dog Attack?
Dog bite attorneys in California advise that you will usually have a case after a dog bite attack when:
- You’ve sustained serious injuries from the dog bite
- The dog owner doesn’t accept responsibility for the dog bite
- You are dealing with extensive medical expenses and loss of income
- Your child was harmed in a dog bite attack
- Your pet was harmed or killed in a dog bite attack
What Are the Penalties for Negligent Dog Owners?
In California, a dog owner is strictly liable for the damages incurred after a dog bites a person or kills or wounds another person’s animals under California Civil Codes 3341 and 3342.
This means a negligent dog owner who fails to keep their dog restrained, whether or not they were aware of any degree of viciousness in the pet, would be held responsible for the ensuing damages of an attack from their pet.
If a dog who has exercised vicious behaviors in the past bites someone, the owner of the dog could be charged with a misdemeanor for knowing this and still keeping the dog unrestrained. If a dog attacks someone, resulting in death, the owner of the dog would be charged with a felony.
If My Own Dog is Trained and Well-Behaved, Can I Keep Them Off a Leash?
No, because even the most well-behaved dogs can be inclined to bite. This is why California counties enforce dog leash laws and have designated areas to keep pets off their leashes with owners taking full responsibility for any consequences that may come with letting dogs roam free.
How To Prepare for Any Off-Leash Dog Encounters While Outside
Going out for a walk by yourself or with your own canine can often be a great way to stretch your legs, get some sun, and spend some time with your pet. Unfortunately, there are often many dogs out and roaming thanks to owners who don’t see a need for leashes.
Prepare for any off-leash dog encounters with the following steps:
- Ditch the earphones. – Being aware of your surroundings is often advised for any type of situation but ditching your earphones while outside can make it easier to hear an off-leash dog as they approach.
- Carry a walking stick or umbrella. – A walking stick or umbrella can be used as a barrier in case the off-leash dog approaches.
- Consider carrying a small bag of treats. – Carrying a small bag of dog treats can be a great way to distract an off-leash dog whose aggression you’re unsure of.
- Know the signs of a dog ready to bite. Some of the telltale signs of a dog that’s poised to attack include flattened ears, stiff posture, a tucked tail, and guttural growling.
Preparing for an off-leash dog encounter can often prevent incidents or at least de-escalate situations before they become too serious or harmful. However, dog bite attacks can still happen, and leave many people and their vulnerable pets in harm’s way.
Dog bite attorneys in California can help in the aftermath of an incident involving an off-leash dog and owner negligence. If you were bitten by an off-leash dog, reach out 24/7 to understand your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I Was a Postal Worker Bitten by a Dog While on the Job?
California is the leading state in the country with the most postal worker dog attacks, recording more than 673 reported dog bite attacks and similar incidents in 2025.
As a postal worker who is bitten by a dog while on the job, you have the right to workers’ compensation benefits through the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA), which compensates for medical expenses and loss of wages after an injury or illness.
Would I Still Be Able to File a Personal Injury Claim if I Received Compensation Through FECA?
Yes, you can file a personal injury claim as a postal worker after a dog bite attack against a third party that is not your employer or a coworker.
What Do I Do if My Dog Bit Someone?
If your dog bites someone, it is essential to move the dog away and allow their behavior to stabilize, then exchange information with the injured person, and report the incident to your local animal control branch and police. Cooperating with authorities is key, and you will also have to show proof of up-to-date vaccinations.
How Long Do I Have to File a Dog Bite Claim?
You have 2 years from the date of the dog bite incident to file a claim for compensation.
Would I Still Have a Claim if the Owner Was Unaware Their Dog Was Loose?
Yes, you can still file a claim. If the dog was under the care of their owner, the owner’s inability to keep the dog restrained would enforce their liability.
If the dog was in the care of a daycare or other pet sitter, they may also hold some responsibility for an ensuing dog bite attack.
What are Common Dog Bite Injuries?
Dog bite attacks can often result in lacerations, puncture wounds, infections, disfigurement, nerve damage, and broken bones.
Is it Worth it to Sue for a Dog Bite?
Dog bite incidents can often lead to severe consequences, and it should not be up to a victim of these incidents to pay for damages out of their own pocket. If the dog owner refuses liability or you find yourself unable to keep up with medical expenses and lost income while waiting to hear back from insurance, you should definitely consider speaking with an attorney to learn about the legal process of a claim.
What if an Insurance Company Denied My Claim?
If the dog owner’s homeowner’s (or renter’s) insurance denies your claim, you must speak with a dog bite lawyer in California as soon as possible. An attorney will be able to explain the appeals process, as well as how they can help strengthen your case.
What Kind of Damages Can I List in My Claim?
Personal injury claims for dog bite incidents help you recover damages including current and future medical expenses, loss of income if unable to work, property damages (which is where injuries to your own pet would fall under), and pain and suffering.
How Much Does It Cost to Work with Dog Bite Lawyers in California?
At BD&J, our dog bite attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means all case costs are advanced to clients, and the final attorney fees are collected from the compensation amount after a case is settled.
This means no financial strain for you while recovering from injuries, and no fees until we win*.
Does BD&J Offer Free Consultations?
Absolutely, you can contact our team 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to schedule a free consultation with our attorneys. Learn more about our case results here before scheduling a consultation.
Contact an Attorney After a Traumatic Dog Bite Experience in California
Dogs are cute, cuddly, and often playful friends, until they’re not. While not every dog will bite, many dog owners underestimate the instinct that can overcome a dog and lead them to lash out or attack other people and their pets.
This is why it’s crucial to keep dogs on a leash while out in public. California counties place strict responsibility on dog owners to keep their dog properly restrained, and failing to do so can result in negligence and liability if the dog attacks someone.
If you or a loved one suffered a traumatic dog bite event in California, call the dog bite attorneys in California from BD&J today!
Contact us now or follow our social media to learn more about personal injury and why filing a claim is important after an accident!