Arizona does not have a statewide law that specifically prohibits chaining or tethering dogs outside. However, local ordinances in various cities and counties impose significant restrictions or outright bans on the practice.
Local Ordinances and Restrictions
Phoenix
- Chaining Ban: Phoenix city law now bans the use of chains to tether animals. Only ropes, tethers, leashes, cables, or other devices other than a chain may be used to restrain a dog to a stationary object or trolley system.
- Extreme Weather Restrictions: Dogs cannot be restrained outside during extreme weather conditions, including when temperatures exceed 100°F or drop below 32°F, or when a heat advisory or severe weather warning is issued.
- Minimum Tether Length:Â Any tether must be at least 10 feet long and must not unreasonably limit the dog’s movement.
- Shelter Requirements:Â Dogs must always have access to food, water, shade, and adequate shelter that allows them to stand, turn around, and lie down.
- Penalties:Â Violating these ordinances can result in fines and, for repeat offenses, a class 1 misdemeanor.
Tempe & Chandler
- Temperature Limits: Tempe prohibits tethering when temperatures are below 45°F or above 85°F, and pets must be supervised by someone physically present. Chandler bans tethering below 32°F or above 100°F, or during weather advisories.
Tucson
- Complete Ban:Â Tucson completely bans chaining a dog that is unattended.
Pima County (including Tucson)
- Comprehensive Ban:Â The use of chains, leashes, wires, cables, ropes, or similar devices for confining animals is prohibited, except for temporary tethering of horses.
Summary Table: Tethering/Chaining Laws by Location
| Location | Chain Ban | Tethering Restrictions | Weather/Temperature Limits | Shelter/Other Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona (statewide) | No | No | No | General animal cruelty laws |
| Phoenix | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Tempe | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Chandler | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Tucson | Yes | Yes | N/A | Yes |
| Pima County | Yes | Yes | N/A | Yes |
Key Points
- It is not illegal statewide to chain or tether your pet outside in Arizona, but many cities and counties have their own, often strict, regulations.
- In Phoenix and Pima County (including Tucson), it is illegal to use a chain to tether a dog. Other forms of restraint may be allowed, but only under specific conditions regarding length, movement, and weather.
- Leaving a dog chained or tethered outside during extreme weather is illegal in several cities (e.g., Phoenix, Tempe, Chandler), and can result in fines or criminal charges.
- Adequate shelter, food, water, and supervision are always required when a dog is outside, regardless of tethering method.
If you live in Phoenix, Tucson, Pima County, or many other Arizona cities, it is illegal to leave your pet chained outside, especially during extreme weather or for extended periods. Even where not explicitly illegal, chaining a pet outside can lead to animal cruelty charges if the animal is harmed or neglected. Always check your local ordinances to ensure compliance and prioritize your pet’s safety and well-being.
Sources
- https://www.azhumane.org/dangers-of-tethering/
- https://www.nhes.org/phoenix-az-dog-tethering-law/
- https://www.torgensonlaw.com/unchain-dog-arizona/
- https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/dogs-can-no-longer-be-chained-under-phoenixs-new-animal-cruelty-rules
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/pima-county-arizona/