Delaware Leash Laws

Delaware is one of the few states with a statewide rule that keeps dogs from running at large, and cities and counties can add stricter leash rules on top of it.

Delaware leash law at a glance

What Delaware state law says

• 16 Del. C. 3048F(a)(1) requires dogs to be restrained by a leash off the owner's property.
• Dogs are not at large on the owner's property, on private property with permission, or in a vehicle.
• Working dogs and dogs in designated off-leash areas must be under reasonable control.
• Beach restrictions apply from May 1 to September 30 (MSU leash table).

Local leash ordinances

In practice, the leash rule you need to follow is usually your city or county ordinance. Local codes typically require a leash or other physical control in public places, allow off-leash play only in designated areas, and set fines for dogs at large.

Staying on the right side of the law

• Keep your dog leashed in public unless you are in a posted off-leash area.
• Make sure your dog wears a current license and rabies tag, since a loose dog without tags is the one most likely to be impounded.
• If your dog has been declared dangerous, stricter leash, muzzle and enclosure rules apply; see the dangerous dog section of Delaware dog bite laws.
• A dog that runs loose and injures someone can create liability for the owner, so a leash is also your best protection.
• Leash training makes compliance easy; a local dog trainer can help with pulling and recall.

Sources

1. Michigan State University Animal Legal & Historical Center: Delaware dog laws
2. Michigan State University Animal Legal & Historical Center: State dog leash laws