In Indiana, it is not outright illegal to tether or chain your dog outside, but there are strict rules and animal welfare standards you must follow. The state’s animal cruelty and neglect laws define “neglect” to include restraining an animal for more than a brief period in a way that endangers its life or health. Specifically, Indiana Code § 35-46-3-.05 states that it is illegal to restrain an animal in a manner that:
- Endangers the animal’s life or health
- Uses a rope, chain, or tether that is too short, too heavy, or otherwise unsafe
Violating these standards can result in animal cruelty or neglect charges, which are punishable as misdemeanors or felonies, especially for repeat offenders.
Local Ordinances: Stricter Rules in Many Cities and Counties
Many Indiana cities and counties have additional, often stricter, tethering laws. Here are some key examples:
Indianapolis and Marion County
- Time Restrictions: It is unlawful to tether any animal between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
- Supervision: Unsterilized dogs cannot be tethered unless a competent adult is outside and in visual range of the dog.
- Vacant Properties: Animals cannot be tethered at vacant structures unless monitored by a competent adult.
- Weather Protections: Dogs must be brought inside if temperatures fall below 20°F or rise above 90°F, or during weather advisories, unless a competent adult is outside with the dog.
- Tether Requirements: The tether must be at least 12 feet long, not attached to a vehicle, and must not use pinch, prong, or choke collars. The dog must have access to water, shelter, and dry ground, and tethers must not cause entanglement or injury.
Lake County
- Maximum Tethering Time: No animal may be tethered for more than one continuous hour, and tethering can resume only after a four-hour break, for a maximum of four hours per day.
- Shelter and Safety: Dogs must have access to shade, water, and shelter, and cannot be tethered in extreme weather or in areas that become muddy or dangerous.
- Other Restrictions: Tethering is banned between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., and on public rights-of-way.
Fort Wayne
- Time Restrictions: No tethering between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
- Other Limits: Unsterilized animals cannot be tethered at all, and no animal under six months old may be tethered. Tethering is also banned at vacant properties unless continuously monitored.
General Tethering Requirements Across Indiana
Regardless of locality, these are common legal standards:
- Collar Safety: Tethers must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness, not directly to the neck, and cannot use choke, prong, or pinch collars.
- Length and Weight: Tethers must be long enough (often at least 12 feet) and not so heavy as to restrict movement.
- Basic Needs: Dogs must always have access to water, shelter, and dry ground.
- Weather: Dogs must be brought inside during extreme weather conditions or official advisories.
- Supervision: In many places, dogs must be supervised while tethered, especially if unsterilized or on vacant property.
Penalties for Violations
Failing to comply with Indiana’s tethering and animal welfare laws can result in:
- Fines
- Misdemeanor or felony charges for animal neglect or cruelty
- Seizure of the animal in severe cases.
Key Takeaways
- Tethering is not outright illegal in Indiana, but strict rules apply.
- Local ordinances may be much stricter than state law—always check your city or county’s regulations.
- Dogs must have adequate shelter, water, and the ability to move freely.
- Tethering in extreme weather, for long periods, or with unsafe equipment is illegal and considered animal cruelty or neglect.
If you’re unsure whether your tethering practices are legal, consult your local animal control or review your municipality’s animal ordinances to avoid penalties and ensure your pet’s welfare.
Sources
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/indiana/indianapolis-and-marion-county-indiana/
- https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/lakecountyin/latest/lakecounty_in/0-0-0-4725
- https://www.greenwood.in.gov/egov/documents/1478144593_51755.pdf
- https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
- https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/ftwayne/latest/ftwayne_in/0-0-0-48326