Everything You Need to Know About Toronto Leash Laws and Dog Licensing

If you’re a dog parent in Toronto, or you’re planning to adopt a dog soon, it’s important to stay on top of local dog-related bylaws. Not only does it help keep you and your dog safe, but it also helps you avoid potential hefty fines.

Here’s everything you need to know about leash laws and dog licensing in Toronto.

Leash Laws in Toronto

Before you take your dog out for a walk or to the park, make sure you’re obeying these leash laws.

1. All Dogs Must Be Leashed (Unless in Off-Leash Zones)

Under Toronto’s municipal code (Chapter 349, Animals), any dog off their owner’s property must be on a leash no longer than 2 metres, unless in a designated off-leash area.

Tethering a dog to a pole or bike rack in public is also prohibited.

2. Off-Leash Zones Have Rules

If your dog is in a designated off-leash area, there are still rules you must follow. Dogs must be licensed, vaccinated, and not aggressive toward people or other dogs.

Female dogs in heat, Pitbulls (as defined in The Dog Owners’ Liability Act), and dogs that have been issued a Dangerous Dog Order by the city are prohibited from off-leash dog areas.

3. Leash Laws at Home

You can tether your dog outside for up to one hour unsupervised. The tether you use to tie your dog has to be more than 3 metres long, and you can’t use a choke collar or pronged collar during any duration of your dog being tethered.

Your dog must also always, of course, be tethered in a way that won’t cause them any harm.

4. Fines for Leash Law Violations

If you violate any leash laws, such as allowing an off-leash dog to roam outside the permitted area, you may be fined up to $615. Repeated or serious noncompliance may result in escalated penalties.

5. Picking Up After Your Dog is Mandatory

Whether on leash or in a designated off-leash area, you’re responsible for picking up your dog’s poop and disposing of it immediately. This helps protect the environment, and keep our public spaces clean and safe for everyone to use.

Dog Licensing in Toronto

If you are a dog parent in Toronto, your dog must be licensed in the city. Follow these licensing guidelines to stay compliant with city law.

1. All Dogs Must Be Licensed Annually

In Toronto, all dogs (and cats) over 3 months old must be licensed and wear their tags. Licenses are valid for one year and you must renew your license before they expire.

2. Licensing Fees and Discounts

The price of licensing your dog varies. The fees from licensing your dog go toward helping the animals in the Toronto shelters, including providing food, shelter, and spay/neuter services.

3. Penalties for Unlicensed Pets

If your dog isn’t licensed, you can face a ticket of around $240. In court, fines may reach $5,000 for repeat or severe violations.

4. How to License Your Dog (or Renew Your License)

You can license or renew your pet online through DocuPet (Toronto’s partner) using a credit card. Other options include:

• By phone at 416-338-PETS (7387)
• By mail (by downloading and mailing the application and payment)
• In person at a designated Toronto Animal Services location

Stay On Top of Toronto Leash Laws and Licensing

Be sure to mark your calendar for your license renewals, and always stay aware of on-leash and off-leash areas. By understanding leash laws and licensing rules in Toronto, you’ll not only avoid fines and legal trouble but you also keep your dog safer and maintain your responsibility as a pet parent.