Nevada law strictly regulates how and for how long you can leave your pet—specifically dogs—chained or tethered outside. Under Nevada Revised Statute (NRS) 574.100, it is illegal to restrain a dog:
- With a tether, chain, tie, trolley, or pulley system that is less than 12 feet in length.
- In a way that does not allow the dog to move at least 12 feet (or, for a pulley system, a total of 12 feet).
- In a manner that allows the dog to reach a fence or object that could cause injury or strangulation.
- Using a prong, pinch, or choke collar or similar restraint.
- For more than 14 hours during a 24-hour period statewide, though some localities are stricter.
Local Ordinances: Stricter Rules in Cities and Counties
Several Nevada cities and counties have even stricter limits than the state law:
-
- Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, and Clark County:
- It is illegal to tether a dog for more than 10 hours in a 24-hour period.
- Dogs cannot be tethered at all if the National Weather Service issues a heat advisory.
- If the temperature reaches 105°F, pet owners must provide cooling mechanisms like misting systems or portable air conditioners.
- Henderson:
- Tethering for more than 14 hours in a 24-hour period is prohibited.
- The restraint must be at least 12 feet long and allow at least 12 feet of movement.
Other Key Requirements
- Shelter: Dogs left outside must have access to adequate shelter, food, and water at all times.
- Safety: Tethering in a way that causes injury, entanglement, or risk of strangulation is always illegal, regardless of duration.
- Collar Type: Prong, pinch, and choke collars are banned for tethering purposes.
Penalties for Violations
- First offense: Usually a misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail, community service, and/or fines up to $1,000.
- Repeat offenses: Penalties escalate, and a third offense within seven years can be charged as a felony.
- Animal cruelty: If the tethering results in injury or death, charges can be much more severe, including felony charges and bans on pet ownership.
Summary Table: Nevada Dog Tethering Laws
| Location | Max Tether Time | Min Length | Special Rules |
|---|---|---|---|
| Statewide (NRS 574.100) | 14 hours/24 hrs | 12 feet | No prong/pinch/choke collars |
| Las Vegas/Clark County | 10 hours/24 hrs | 12 feet | No tethering during heat advisory |
| Henderson | 14 hours/24 hrs | 12 feet | Must allow 12 feet of movement |
It is illegal to leave your pet chained outside in Nevada if you violate any of the above restrictions. Always check your local ordinances, as city and county rules may be stricter than state law.
Tethering a dog for too long, with the wrong equipment, or in unsafe conditions can result in criminal charges, fines, and even jail time. Proper shelter, freedom of movement, and protection from extreme weather are required by law.
Sources:
- https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/nevada/
- https://www.shouselaw.com/nv/defense/laws/animal-abuse/
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/nevada/henderson-nevada/