Oregon law strictly regulates how and for how long you can tether (chain) your pet outdoors. While it is not outright illegal to tether a dog or other domestic animal outside, there are clear legal limits and requirements. Violating these laws can result in fines or criminal charges.
Key Provisions of Oregon’s Tethering Law
- Time Limits:
- You may not tether a domestic animal for more than 10 hours in a 24-hour period.
- If using a running line, pulley, or trolley system, the maximum is 15 hours in a 24-hour period.
- Tether Requirements:
- The tether must be a reasonable length for the animal and the available space, and must not allow the animal to become entangled in a way that risks its health or safety.
- Choke, pinch, or prong collars cannot be used for tethering.
- The animal must always have access to adequate shelter and bedding that protects against wind, rain, snow, sun, and cold.
- Shelter Standards:
- Shelters cannot be under vehicles, homes, porches, or made from cardboard, wire cages, or temporary crates.
- Adequate shelter must be an enclosed structure (like a doghouse or barn) that provides dry bedding and protection from the elements.
- Exemptions:
- Tethering is allowed if the animal is in your physical presence, for brief periods at campgrounds, for certain licensed activities (like hunting), during transportation, or for working dogs (herding, livestock protection, sledding).
Penalties for Violations
- Unlawful tethering is a Class B violation (civil infraction).
- If tethering causes physical injury, it becomes a Class B misdemeanor; if it causes serious injury or death, it is a Class A misdemeanor.
- Failure to provide minimum care or adequate shelter can also result in animal neglect charges, which may be misdemeanors or felonies depending on the severity.
Table
| Provision | Legal Limit/Requirement |
|---|---|
| Max tether time (stationary) | 10 hours in 24 hours |
| Max tether time (trolley/run) | 15 hours in 24 hours |
| Collar types | No choke, pinch, or prong collars |
| Shelter | Must be adequate: enclosed, dry bedding, weather protection |
| Prohibited shelters | Under vehicles, porches, cardboard, wire cages, temp crates |
| Penalties | Civil violation, misdemeanor, or felony for severe neglect |
It is illegal in Oregon to leave your pet chained outside in a way that violates these time limits, collar restrictions, or shelter requirements. Always ensure your pet has adequate shelter, is not left tethered for excessive periods, and is not at risk of harm or neglect. Failing to follow these laws can result in fines or criminal charges.
Sources
[1] https://www.fencesforfido.org/oregon-s-tethering-law
[2] https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/oregon/
[3] https://oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_167.343
[4] https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
[5] https://www.oregonhumane.org/wp-content/uploads/guide_Oregon_statutes.pdf