Statewide Arizona Law
Arizona does not have a blanket statewide ban on tethering or chaining dogs, but it does regulate the practice and sets specific conditions under which it is considered unlawful.
According to Arizona law (HB 2632), it is generally unlawful to tether a dog except in certain circumstances, such as when the owner is physically present, during brief errands, in campgrounds that require it, or when the dog is used for licensed activities (like hunting) or for herding/protecting livestock.
If a person is found in violation and has not previously been warned or convicted, they may keep a dog on a tether for up to 30 days (for dogs 6 months or older) while seeking alternative confinement, but the tether must be at least six feet long and not endanger the dog’s health or safety.
Local Ordinances: Phoenix and Pima County
Phoenix:
The City of Phoenix has some of the strictest anti-tethering rules in Arizona. It is illegal to restrain a dog outside with a chain, and all other restraints must be at least 10 feet long, properly fitted, and must not unreasonably limit the dog’s movement.
Tethering is prohibited during extreme weather (above 100°F, below 32°F, or when weather advisories are issued). Dogs must always have access to food, water, shade, dry ground, and adequate shelter. Penalties escalate from a $250 fine for a first offense to jail time and higher fines for repeat violations.
Pima County:
Pima County bans the use of tie-outs (chains, leashes, wires, cables, ropes, or similar devices) for confining animals, except for temporary tethering of horses. Dogs must have adequate exercise space within an enclosure, not by tethering.
Why the Restrictions?
These laws are in place because tethering can:
- Cause injury or distress to the animal
- Lead to entanglement, preventing access to water, food, or shelter
- Expose animals to extreme weather, parasites, and attacks
- Lead to behavioral issues and increased aggression
Arizona Dog Tethering Laws
| Jurisdiction | Chains Allowed? | Minimum Tether Length | Extreme Weather Ban? | Other Key Provisions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Statewide | Yes (with limits) | 6 feet (if allowed) | No statewide ban | Only under specific, limited circumstances |
| Phoenix | No | 10 feet | Yes | No chains; must provide shelter, water, etc. |
| Pima County | No | N/A | N/A | No tie-outs for confinement |
Bottom Line
- Statewide: Tethering is restricted and only allowed under specific conditions; otherwise, it is unlawful.
- Phoenix and Pima County: Tethering is much more restricted or outright banned, especially using chains, and is strictly prohibited during extreme weather.
- Penalties: Fines and potential jail time for repeat offenders in cities like Phoenix.
Always check your local ordinances, as city and county rules may be stricter than state law.
Sources
- https://www.azleg.gov/legtext/52leg/1r/bills/hb2632p.htm
- https://www.azhumane.org/dangers-of-tethering/
- https://theanimalrescuesite.com/blogs/news/break-the-chain
- https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/pima-county-arizona/
