Is It Illegal to Leave Your Pet Chained Outside in Alabama? Here’s What the Law Says

As of May 2025, Alabama does not have a statewide law that explicitly bans chaining or tethering dogs outside under all circumstances. However, there are general animal cruelty and neglect laws that can apply if the conditions are deemed inhumane or dangerous for the animal.

Local ordinances in some Alabama cities, such as Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, and Gardendale, do specifically restrict or prohibit chaining and tethering practices, often imposing time limits, equipment requirements, and mandates for adequate shelter, food, and water.

Local Ordinances

• Birmingham: It is illegal to chain a dog or tether it improperly. Dogs must be tethered with a harness or collar that fits comfortably, attached to a running line (not a fixed point), and never with a chain. Tethering is limited to eight consecutive hours.
• Tuscaloosa: Tethering is limited to one hour, with requirements for a non-choke collar, a tether of at least ten feet, and access to food, water, and shelter.
• Gardendale: Chaining or tying a pet for more than 12 consecutive hours is prohibited. Animals must have at least 100 square feet to roam, and tethers must allow 360-degree movement or use an overhead run.

Proposed State Legislation (2025)

Significant changes are under consideration in the Alabama Legislature. House Bill 149 (HB149), known as the Alabama Dog Tethering and Outdoor Shelter Act, is currently under review and, if passed, would set statewide standards for tethering and confining dogs outdoors:

Prohibits chaining or tethering a dog to a stationary object unless certain conditions are met.

Allows outdoor confinement only if:

The dog is in a secure enclosure with adequate space and sturdy construction.

• The dog is in a fully fenced or electronically fenced yard.
• The dog is tethered to a trolley system designed for dogs, with specific safety requirements (e.g., tether weight, collar fit, minimum cable length, and prevention of escape)
• Requires access to food, water, and protection from extreme weather.
• Penalties: Violations would be a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $3,000.
• Exemptions: Activities such as hunting, herding, training, grooming, and emergencies are exempt.

Summary Table: Tethering Laws in Alabama