West Covina Dog Leash Laws Rules (2026): What You Need to Know
Some RestrictionsThe Short Version
West Covina requires all dogs to be on a leash or under the direct physical control of a responsible person when off the owner's property. Dogs running at large are subject to impoundment by the city's animal control officers. All dogs four months of age and older must be licensed and vaccinated against rabies as required by LA County ordinance. West Covina does not operate a dedicated off-leash dog park within city limits, though nearby regional parks may offer designated off-leash areas.
Full Breakdown
West Covina's municipal code and LA County animal control ordinances require that all dogs be kept on a leash or otherwise under the direct physical control of a competent person when the dog is anywhere off the owner's private property. This includes streets, sidewalks, parks, and all public areas within the city. The leash must be of sufficient strength to restrain the animal and short enough to maintain control — retractable leashes extended to maximum length in crowded areas may not satisfy the control requirement. Dogs found roaming at large without a leash or handler are subject to impoundment by the city's animal control officers.
All dogs four months of age and older must be licensed and currently vaccinated against rabies in compliance with LA County Department of Animal Care and Control regulations. Dog licenses must be renewed annually and are available through the LA County animal licensing system. License fees are significantly reduced for dogs that are spayed or neutered, as an incentive for responsible pet ownership. Failure to license a dog or maintain current rabies vaccination is a separate citable offense. Owners of dogs that bite a person or another animal must report the incident to animal control, and the biting dog may be subject to a mandatory 10-day quarantine.
West Covina does not currently operate a dedicated off-leash dog park within its city limits. Dog owners seeking off-leash exercise areas may use nearby facilities in adjacent cities such as the Bark Park at Walnut Creek Park in the City of Industry or regional LA County parks that offer designated off-leash zones. Even in designated off-leash areas, owners remain responsible for controlling their dogs and must pick up waste. Aggressive dogs must be leashed at all times regardless of location. For animal control emergencies, contact the West Covina Police Department at (626) 939-8500. For licensing questions, contact LA County Animal Care and Control at (562) 728-4610.
What Happens If You Violate This?
Dogs found running at large may be impounded, and the owner may be cited with fines starting at $100 for a first offense. Unlicensed dog fines range from $100 to $250 depending on the jurisdiction's fee schedule. Owners of dogs that cause injury to a person or another animal may face additional penalties including mandatory dangerous dog hearings, increased insurance requirements, and potential criminal charges for negligent ownership. Repeat at-large violations may result in escalating fines and restrictions on the number of animals permitted at the residence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to keep my dog on a leash at all times in West Covina?
Where do I get a dog license in West Covina?
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Sources & Official References
How does West Covina compare?
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