In Arizona, there is no statewide law that makes it categorically illegal to leave your pet chained or tethered outside, but several cities and counties have their own ordinances that restrict or ban the practice, especially during extreme weather. Here’s what the law says:
Statewide Law
- Arizona state law does not currently prohibit chaining or tethering dogs in general. Past legislative efforts to create a statewide anti-tethering law have not been enacted.
- However, animal cruelty laws still apply. If chaining a pet results in harm or neglect-such as lack of water, food, shade, or shelter-owners could be prosecuted under general animal cruelty statutes.
Local Ordinances
Phoenix
- It is illegal to tether a dog during extreme weather (temperatures above 100°F, heat advisories, or severe weather warnings).
- The tether must be longer than 10 feet and must not unreasonably limit the dog’s movement or access to food, water, shade, or shelter.
- As of 2023, chains can no longer be used to tether animals in Phoenix; only ropes, leashes, or cables are permitted.
- Violations can result in fines for a first offense and a class 1 misdemeanor for repeat offenses.
Chandler
- Tethering is prohibited when temperatures are below 32°F or above 100°F, or if a heat or extreme weather advisory is in effect.
Tempe
- Tethering is banned when temperatures are below 45°F or above 85°F, and dogs must be supervised by someone physically present at the property.
Glendale
- Tethering for the purpose of confinement is prohibited at all times, regardless of weather.
Tucson
- Chaining a dog that is unattended is completely banned.
Key Points
- Check your local laws: Many Arizona cities have stricter rules than the state, and penalties can include fines or criminal charges.
- Weather restrictions are common: Most ordinances prohibit tethering during extreme heat or cold.
- Adequate shelter and care are always required: Even where tethering is allowed, you must provide food, water, shade, and shelter, and the tether must not cause harm or restrict movement unreasonably.
- Chains are often banned as tethers: For example, Phoenix now prohibits the use of chains for tethering.
Summary Table
| Location | Is Tethering Legal? | Weather Restrictions? | Chain Use Allowed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Statewide | Generally legal | No statewide restriction | Not specifically banned |
| Phoenix | Restricted, regulated | Yes (above 100°F, advisories) | No |
| Chandler | Restricted | Yes (above 100°F, below 32°F) | Not specified |
| Tempe | Restricted, supervised only | Yes (above 85°F, below 45°F) | Not specified |
| Glendale | Prohibited for confinement | N/A | Not specified |
| Tucson | Banned if unattended | N/A | Not specified |
It is not outright illegal statewide to leave your pet chained outside in Arizona, but many cities-including Phoenix, Chandler, Tempe, Glendale, and Tucson-have strict local laws that limit or ban the practice, especially during extreme weather.
Chains are banned for tethering in Phoenix. Always check your local ordinances to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
Sources:
- https://www.nhes.org/phoenix-az-dog-tethering-law/
- https://www.torgensonlaw.com/unchain-dog-arizona/
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/tempe-arizona/
- https://www.azhumane.org/dangers-of-tethering/