Is It Illegal to Leave Your Pet Chained Outside in Hawaii? Here’s What the Law Says

Published On: August 20, 2025

Is It Illegal to Leave Your Pet Chained Outside in Hawaii? Here's What the Law Says

In Hawaii, it is indeed illegal to leave a pet, especially a dog, chained or tethered outside for extended periods. The state has enacted laws specifically aimed at protecting animals from cruel and inhumane treatment, including regulations on how pets should be tethered when outside. These laws are designed to safeguard pets’ welfare and prevent potential harm caused by prolonged tethering or chaining.

Key Legislation and Regulations

The primary law addressing this issue is Act 251, passed in 2016, which regulates the tethering or chaining of pets outdoors. According to this law:

Pet owners are prohibited from leaving their pets chained outside for more than three hours in a 24-hour period.

The law mandates that pets who are tethered outside must be provided with adequate shelter to protect them from extreme weather conditions such as rain, cold, or heat.

Pets must have constant access to fresh water and an appropriate tether that allows freedom of movement without the risk of injury.

The tether must be at least 10 feet long for dogs and designed so the pet can move around comfortably within that space.

Protection Against Animal Cruelty

Hawaii’s animal cruelty laws under sections 711-1108.5 and 711-1109 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes categorize cruel treatment of animals as a misdemeanor and in some cases, a felonious offense. Leaving a pet chained unsupervised or confined in a cruel manner falls under these statutes. The laws emphasize:

It is unlawful to confine a pet in a cruel or inhumane manner.

The improper use of choke collars, pinch collars, or prong collars while tethering is prohibited.

Animal cruelty includes overdriving, torturing, starving, or depriving a pet of necessary sustenance.

Why Are These Rules Important?

Prolonged tethering or chaining can cause physical injuries, psychological stress, and behavioral issues in animals such as anxiety or aggression. Additionally, tethered pets may become entangled or trapped, leading to further harm or death. By restricting chaining practices, Hawaii seeks to promote humane treatment and safety for animals and reduce risks to the public from potentially aggressive or distressed animals.

Enforcement and Penalties

Violating Hawaii’s laws on pet tethering can result in significant legal consequences including fines, citations, and potentially jail time for animal cruelty. Law enforcement or animal control officers have the authority to issue warnings, seize animals in distress, or require pet owners to cover veterinary care costs if neglect leads to injuries.

Exceptions and Allowed Practices

The law allows some limited tethering under specific circumstances:

Temporary tethering during activities such as yard work or supervised outdoor play.

Tethering for less than three hours with access to shelter, water, and adequate space.

These exceptions ensure pet owners can safely manage their animals without violating humane care standards.

Hawaii’s laws make it clear that leaving pets chained outside for long periods is illegal and considered animal cruelty. The state mandates proper shelter, water, and appropriate tethering to protect pets’ physical and emotional well-being. Pet owners who fail to comply risk legal penalties and harm to their animals. These laws reflect Hawaii’s commitment to animal welfare and community safety.