In North Carolina, dog tethering regulations are primarily established at the municipal level, leading to variations across different cities and counties. Below is an overview of tethering laws and associated penalties in select North Carolina municipalities:
1. Raleigh
Regulations: Raleigh’s ordinance, effective July 1, 2009, prohibits tethering a dog for more than three hours total in any 24-hour period. Tethers must be at least 10 feet long, attached to prevent strangulation or injury, and weigh no more than 10% of the dog’s body weight. The tether should be connected using a buckle-type collar or body harness, ensuring the dog has access to food and water.
Penalties: Violations are classified as misdemeanors, with civil penalties of $100 per day for each day of violation.
2. Chapel Hill
Regulations: As of March 23, 2010, Chapel Hill enforces a strict anti-tethering ordinance. Residents are prohibited from tying their dogs outside using any type of chain or runner. Exceptions are permitted for specific activities such as shepherding, hunting, lawful dog events, camping, and when a caretaker is within eyesight of the tethered animal. During these exceptions, tethers must be made of appropriate materials with specific requirements to prevent harm or entanglement.
Penalties: Initially, a warning period was provided. Post-warning, residents not in compliance are subject to fines or criminal charges.
3. Burlington
Regulations: In Burlington, tethering is generally prohibited except under specific circumstances and never for longer than seven consecutive days. Exceptions include lawful animal events, hunting activities, camping, law enforcement activities, after taking possession of a stray (with notification to animal control), and when a caretaker is outside and within eyesight of the tethered animal. Tethers must be made of specific materials with swivels to prevent entanglement, and the combined weight of the tether and collar/harness must not exceed 10% of the dog’s body weight.
Penalties: The first offense results in a written warning. A second offense incurs a $100 civil penalty, which can be waived if the dog is spayed or neutered within 14 days. A third offense leads to a $250 civil penalty. Subsequent offenses may result in a Class 3 misdemeanor with fines up to $500 and potential forfeiture of the dog.
4. Dare County
Regulations: Dare County’s ordinance prohibits tethering a dog for more than three hours in a 24-hour period. Tethers must be at least 10 feet long, attached to prevent strangulation or injury, and connected using a body harness made of nylon or leather. The combined weight of the tethering device and collar/harness must not exceed 10% of the dog’s body weight. Tethered dogs must have access to adequate food, water, and shelter, and tethering is prohibited for dogs under six months old or those that are sick or injured.
Penalties: The first offense results in a warning. A second offense may lead to a Class 3 misdemeanor, a fine of up to $500, and forfeiture of the dog to Dare County Animal Control.
5. Charlotte-Mecklenburg
Regulations: In Charlotte and Mecklenburg County, while leash laws are strictly enforced, tethering is regulated to ensure humane treatment. Tethers must be a minimum of 10 feet long, not exceed 10% of the dog’s total weight, and be attached using properly fitting collars or harnesses. Swivel hardware is required to prevent tangles, and the area must be free from obstructions to ensure the dog’s safety.
Penalties: Education is prioritized for initial violations. Subsequent non-compliance can result in fines starting at $50, escalating with repeated offenses.
6. Statewide Legislation
At the state level, North Carolina General Statute § 14-362.3 addresses the cruel restraint of dogs. It states that maliciously restraining a dog using a chain or wire grossly in excess of the size necessary to safely restrain the dog is a Class 1 misdemeanor. “Maliciously” is defined as imposing the restraint intentionally with malice or bad motive.
Conclusion
North Carolina’s approach to dog tethering regulations varies by municipality, with cities and counties like Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Burlington, Dare County, and Charlotte-Mecklenburg implementing specific ordinances to ensure the humane treatment of animals. Penalties for violations range from warnings and fines to misdemeanors and potential forfeiture of the animal. Dog owners in North Carolina should familiarize themselves with local ordinances to ensure compliance and promote the well-being of their pets.