Board approves ordinance requiring leashes, restricting tethering and defining confinement

Trustees discussed Ordinance No. 26, which would amend Title 6, Chapter 4 to require dogs be leashed when outside public areas, prohibit tethering as a primary means of restraint, require adequate confinement and provide for enforcement and penalties. One trustee questioned how the ordinance would affect short-term visitors who may not have fenced yards; staff emphasized the need for adequate fencing or direct physical supervision if animals are to be left on private property.

A board member said, "That's not the life of a dog anymore," in describing why tethering should be restricted, and staff clarified the ordinance includes exceptions where an animal is under direct physical supervision (defined as line-of-sight and control). Trustees discussed potential MOUs with county animal services and signage to educate tourists and residents. The board approved Ordinance No. 26 with an emergency clause by roll call.

Staff said the ordinance aims to reduce loose animals and public-safety incidents and that education and signage will be considered to remind visitors and residents of the rules.