RTM Approves Long-Debated Dog Leash Ordinance

After two years of debate and delay, the Representative Town Meeting approved an animal control ordinance Monday that requires dogs to be kept on leashes while on public property.

The ordinance, which goes into effect Oct. 10, passed by a 59-13 vote.

As approved, the measure requires that owners keep their dogs on leashes of no more than 25 feet, that they not allow the animals to damage public property, and that they promptly remove any waste left by their pets. Police officers and animal control officers are empowered to enforce the ordinance with a summons and a fine.

The only public property not covered by the ordinance are the town's parks, which fall under the jurisdiction of the Parks and Recreation Commission.

In June, the commission approved that requires dogs to be kept on leashes in most areas at most times, but with some key exceptions at the popular Cherry Lawn Park. Those regulations go in effect Oct. 1. (.)

Before voting on the full measure Monday, RTM members approved a revision emphasizing that its provisions "shall not apply to dogs in town parks."

RTM moderator Karen Armour said it was the town's intention that the rules would be distributed when owners file for dog licenses.

Below is the text of the ordinance.

Control of Dogs in Public Places

• A. Leashing and Conduct in Public Places: Except in a dog run established by the Town or any private entity, no owner or keeper shall bring any dog onto any public street, sidewalk or any other public property unless the dog is on a leash or lead that is no more than twenty-five (25) feet and under the control of its owner or keeper at all times. No owner or keeper shall allow any dog under his supervision to dig up, mutilate, deface or destroy any public properties.
• B. Cleaning Up After Dogs: The owner or keeper of any dog on a public street, sidewalk, or public property shall promptly remove all feces left by the dog on such public areas and dispose of such feces in a sanitary manner.
• C. Exceptions: The provisions of this section shall not apply to dogs used by a governmental agency or a service animal as defined by 28 C.F.R. 36.104.*
• D. Enforcement and Penalty: The provisions of this section may be enforced by a summons for a violation issued by any police officer or animal control officer. Any person violating this section shall be fined in accordance with Appendix D, Table of Ordinance Fines.

*A sentence was added to this clause before approval stating that "the provisions of this section shall not apply to dogs in town parks."