In Maryland, it is illegal to leave your pet (specifically a dog) chained or tethered outside under certain conditions. The state has clear laws designed to protect dogs from neglect and exposure to dangerous weather, and several counties have even stricter rules.
What Maryland State Law Says
Under Maryland Criminal Law § 10-623, you may not leave a dog outside and unattended by use of a restraint (such as a chain, rope, or tether) if:
- The restraint unreasonably limits the dog’s movement.
- The collar is made primarily of metal or is too tight (not at least as large as the dog’s neck plus one inch).
- The dog does not have access to clean water or appropriate shelter.
- The conditions are unsafe or unsanitary.
- The restraint causes injury to the dog.
Additionally, you cannot leave a dog outside and unattended for more than 30 minutes without continuous access to:
- Suitable shelter during extreme weather (below 32°F, or during a National Weather Service winter/cold weather warning).
- Suitable shelter or shade when the temperature is above 90°F.
Violating these laws can result in:
- A warning for a first offense.
- Civil penalties up to $500 for subsequent offenses.
- Misdemeanor charges, with potential for up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine up to $1,000 for severe violations.
Local Ordinances
Some Maryland counties and cities have even stricter regulations:
- Anne Arundel County: Except for one 15-minute period per day, a dog may not be tethered, chained, or tied outdoors unless a person (age 13 or older) is outside, on the same property, and has a direct line of sight to the dog at all times. Dogs cannot be tethered at all if the temperature is 32°F or lower, or 90°F or higher.
- Montgomery County: Proposals and local laws may further restrict unattended tethering, sometimes banning it entirely unless the owner is present.
Key Takeaways
- Leaving a dog chained outside unattended for extended periods is illegal in Maryland, especially in extreme weather or without proper shelter, water, and care.
- Local laws may be even more restrictive than state law.
- Violations can lead to warnings, fines, and even criminal charges.
Always check your local county or city ordinances in addition to state law to ensure you are in compliance and your pet is safe.
Sources
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/maryland/
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/maryland/anne-arundel-county-maryland/
- https://woundedpawproject.org/animal-abuse/animal-abuse-in-maryland/
- https://law.justia.com/codes/maryland/2013/article-gcr/section-10-623/
- https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws