Leaving your pet chained or tethered outside in North Dakota is not outright illegal statewide, but there are important restrictions at the local level—particularly in cities like Fargo and Hillsboro—that pet owners must follow to avoid violating animal welfare ordinances.
Local Ordinances: Fargo & Hillsboro
Fargo:
- Chains, tethers, or tie-outs must be at least three times the length of the animal and weigh no more than ten pounds.
- The tether must be strong, durable, and not allow the animal to become tangled or prevent access to water and shelter.
- The animal must not be able to reach public sidewalks, streets, alleys, or neighboring property (unless you have written permission).
- Time Limits: An animal cannot be chained to a stationary object for more than two consecutive hours, must have at least a two-hour break between chaining periods, and may not be chained for more than four two-hour periods in a 24-hour span.
- Exemptions: Kennels and pulley/cable run systems are exempt from the two-hour limit if they meet specific size and safety requirements.
Hillsboro:
- Similar rules apply: the tether must be at least three times the animal’s length, not exceed ten pounds, and prevent tangling or access to public areas or neighboring property.
- The same two-hour chaining limit and required rest periods apply.
Statewide Animal Cruelty Laws
While North Dakota does not have a specific state law banning pet tethering, state anti-cruelty statutes may apply if the way an animal is chained causes harm, neglect, or endangers its health or safety. Tethering that leads to injury, lack of shelter, or exposure to extreme weather could be prosecuted as animal cruelty under these broader laws.
Key Takeaways
- It is not illegal to tether a pet outside in North Dakota, but local ordinances in cities like Fargo and Hillsboro set strict limits on how and when it can be done.
- Tethering must never deprive the animal of water, shelter, or safety, and cannot be used for extended periods.
- Violating these rules can result in fines, animal cruelty charges, or the removal of the animal.
Check your local city or county ordinances before leaving your pet chained outside. Always ensure your pet’s tethering setup is humane, safe, and legal to avoid penalties and protect your animal’s welfare.
Sources:
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/fargo-north-dakota/
- https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
- https://ndnewengland.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/2021-Ordinances-C12.pdf
- https://answers.justia.com/questions/answered/north-dakota/animal-dog-law