Arizona’s laws regarding leaving pets—especially dogs—chained or tethered outside are a combination of state anti-cruelty statutes and specific local ordinances. The exact legality depends on where you live in Arizona, the conditions under which the animal is tethered, and the manner of restraint used.
Statewide Animal Cruelty Laws
Arizona’s primary animal cruelty law, ARS § 13-2910, makes it illegal to intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly subject an animal to cruel neglect, mistreatment, or abandonment. This includes failing to provide necessary food, water, shelter, or medical care, and subjecting an animal to conditions likely to cause injury, suffering, or death. While the statute does not specifically mention chaining or tethering, it can apply if the manner in which an animal is restrained leads to suffering or endangerment.
Local Ordinances: City and County Variations
Many Arizona cities and counties have enacted stricter ordinances that specifically address tethering and chaining:
Phoenix
- Chains Prohibited: As of 2023, Phoenix bans the use of chains to tether animals. Only ropes, tethers, leashes, or cables (not chains) may be used to restrain a dog, and these must be at least 10 feet long.
- Weather Restrictions: Dogs cannot be restrained outside during extreme weather, defined as temperatures below 32°F or above 100°F, or when a weather advisory is in effect.
- Shelter Requirements: Animals must have access to adequate shade and shelter at all times.
- Penalties: Violations can result in fines of at least $250 for a first offense, escalating to a Class 1 misdemeanor with mandatory jail time and higher fines for repeat offenses.
Pima County (Tucson and Surrounding Areas)
- Tethering Ban: Pima County prohibits the use of tie-outs—including chains, leashes, wires, cables, ropes, or similar devices—for confining animals, except for temporary tethering of horses.
- Enclosure Requirements: Animals must be provided with adequate exercise space within a safe enclosure, not by being tied out.
Other Cities
- Tempe: Tethering is prohibited when temperatures are below 45°F or above 85°F, and pets must be supervised by someone physically present.
- Chandler: Tethering is prohibited when temperatures are below 32°F or above 100°F, or if a heat or extreme weather advisory is issued.
General Requirements for Tethering (Where Allowed)
Where tethering is not outright banned, there are often requirements to ensure the animal’s safety:
- The tether must be of adequate length (usually at least 10 feet).
- The animal must have access to food, water, shade, dry ground, and adequate shelter at all times.
- The restraint must not cause injury, entanglement, or restrict movement unreasonably.
- Choke or pinch collars are prohibited for tethering.
Penalties for Violations
- Misdemeanor or Felony: Violating animal cruelty laws can result in criminal charges ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 6 months in jail and a $2,500 fine) to a Class 5 felony (up to 2.5 years in prison), depending on the severity and whether there are repeat offenses or aggravating circumstances.
- Civil Fines: Local ordinances may impose additional civil penalties, especially for first-time violations.
Summary Table: Tethering Laws in Selected Arizona Jurisdictions
| Location | Chain Use | Weather Restrictions | Length Requirement | Shelter Mandate | Penalties |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phoenix | Prohibited | <32°F or >100°F, advisories | ≥10 feet | Yes | Fines, jail (repeat) |
| Pima County | Prohibited | N/A | N/A | Yes | Fines, possible charges |
| Tempe | Allowed* | <45°F or >85°F, supervision | N/A | Yes | Fines |
| Chandler | Allowed* | <32°F or >100°F, advisories | N/A | Yes | Fines |
*Allowed only under specified conditions.
Key Takeaways
- It is illegal in many Arizona cities and counties to leave your pet chained outside, especially using a chain, or during extreme weather.
- Even where not specifically banned, tethering that causes suffering, injury, or denies basic needs can be prosecuted under state animal cruelty laws.
- Local ordinances may be stricter than state law, so always check your city or county’s regulations.
- Penalties can be severe, including substantial fines and jail time for repeat or egregious offenses.
If you are a pet owner in Arizona, it is crucial to know your local laws and ensure your pets are never left chained or tethered in a way that endangers their health or safety.
Sources:
- https://www.azleg.gov/legtext/52leg/1r/bills/hb2632p.htm
- https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
- https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/dogs-can-no-longer-be-chained-under-phoenixs-new-animal-cruelty-rules
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/pima-county-arizona/
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/phoenix-arizona/
