New Orleans is a vibrant and pet-friendly city, but with that comes the need for clear rules around pet ownership and public safety. One of the most commonly asked questions from dog owners and residents alike is: Does New Orleans have a leash law for dogs? The answer is yes.
Orleans Parish enforces strict regulations under local ordinances regarding animals in public spaces. Dog owners, especially those living in or visiting New Orleans, must understand and comply with these rules to avoid fines and potential legal liability.
Understanding New Orleans’ Leash Laws
In New Orleans, dogs are required to be under control when off their owner’s property. This means that, in most cases, they must be kept on a secure leash whenever they are on public property or in shared spaces.
The law specifically requires:
- All dogs on public property to be leashed and under control
- Dog owners or the owner or keeper to ensure the leash is secure and not excessively long
- Exceptions only in designated dog parks or such an exempted area
This leash requirement applies regardless of whether the dog is friendly or well-behaved. Even in areas like City Park or along the parade route during festivals, dogs must remain on a leash unless the area is explicitly designated as off leash.
Off-Leash Exceptions and Designated Dog Parks
New Orleans does offer a number of designated dog parks where dogs are legally allowed to be off leash. These areas are securely enclosed and include parks like NOLA City Bark and other pet-friendly spaces that are clearly marked.
However, dog owners must still adhere to rules even within these parks, including:
- Immediate cleanup of animal waste
- Ensuring pets are properly licensed and vaccinated
- Monitoring dogs for aggressive behavior
Outside of these areas, off leash dogs are considered a violation of city ordinances, and the owner or keeper may be held responsible for any damage or injury caused.
Liability for Off-Leash Incidents
If a dog injures someone while off leash, the dog owner can be held responsible under New Orleans’ premises liability standards and local animal control regulations. This applies both on public property and when a dog leaves its owner’s property and injures someone on private property.
Victims may file a personal injury claim if they are bitten, knocked over, or otherwise harmed by an uncontrolled animal. In these cases, evidence that the dog was off leash or not confined in a securely enclosed area strengthens the claim.
What About Exotic or Wild Animals?
New Orleans has additional regulations regarding the ownership of wild or exotic animals. Keeping animals like a venomous or constricting snake, live monkey, or exotic animal hybrid is heavily restricted and often prohibited without special permits. The city also imposes rules for guinea pigs, aquatic turtles, sugar gliders, and nonhuman primates.
These rules are meant to protect public health and ensure that such animals are not allowed to roam or present a threat to others. If such animals are found loose or cause harm, their owners can face serious legal consequences.
Enforcement and Animal Control Services
Enforcement of leash laws and exotic animal restrictions falls under animal control services in Orleans Parish. These authorities have the power to seize dogs and other animals that are off leash, improperly licensed, or deemed dangerous.
Some other guidelines to keep in mind:
- All pets must be properly licensed
- Feral cats and community cats are subject to trapping and tagging rules
- Owners of vicious dogs or animals declared potentially dangerous may face court actions
Legal Consequences for Dog Owners
Failure to comply with leash laws or properly control pets can lead to:
- Fines and citations
- Lawsuits for injuries or property damage
- Orders to confine or surrender the dog
- Loss of pet custody in severe cases
If someone is injured due to a leash law violation, they may be entitled to recover medical expenses, compensation for emotional distress, and other legal remedies through a civil lawsuit.
Learn more about leash laws and dog-related injuries in New Orleans. Call Rozas Injury Law, LLC at (225) 343-0010 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.
FAQs: Leash Laws in New Orleans
Is it legal to let my dog off leash in City Park?
Only in clearly marked designated dog parks. All other areas within City Park require dogs to be on a leash.
Can I be sued if my dog bites someone while off leash?
Yes. If your dog injures someone, you may be held responsible for medical bills and other damages, especially if your dog was not confined or on a leash.
Are there any breeds that are automatically considered dangerous?
No specific breeds are outlawed, but dogs that show aggression or have prior incidents may be labeled as vicious dogs or potentially dangerous by authorities.
Do leash laws apply on private property?
If your dog leaves your property and causes harm, yes. You must ensure your dog is securely enclosed on your private property.
What should I do if I’m injured by an off-leash dog?
Document the injury, seek medical attention, and contact a personal injury attorney to explore your legal options. You may be eligible to file a claim against the owner or keeper.
