Tethering, or restraining a dog by tying it to a stationary object, is a practice that has garnered significant attention in Florida due to concerns about animal welfare. While state laws provide a foundational framework, various counties have enacted their ordinances to address specific concerns.
This article delves into Florida’s dog tethering laws, associated penalties, and notable legislative developments.
Florida Statewide Tethering Law
In 2021, Florida introduced Section 828.132 to its statutes, establishing clear guidelines on tethering domestic dogs and cats. Key provisions include:
- Supervised Tethering: Animals may only be tethered if the owner or responsible person is physically present and can see the animal at all times.
- Weather Restrictions: Tethering is prohibited during severe weather conditions, such as extreme heat or cold, thunderstorms, lightning, tornadoes, tropical storms, or hurricanes.
- Exemptions: Certain situations are exempted, including:
- Participation in legal, organized public events.
- Activities related to herding livestock or agricultural practices.
- Treatment by veterinarians or groomers.
- Training or active service in law enforcement.
- Rescue operations during disasters.
- Temporary tethering by shelters or boarding facilities.
- Tethering under camping or recreational area regulations.
Violations of this section are considered noncriminal offenses, with penalties escalating from a written warning for the first offense to fines of $250 and $500 for subsequent offenses.
County-Specific Tethering Regulations
Beyond state law, several Florida counties have implemented their own tethering ordinances to address local concerns:
- Lee County: Prohibits tethering animals to stationary objects. Temporary, attended tethering is allowed with specific equipment requirements, such as properly fitted collars or harnesses.
- Daytona Beach: Allows tethering only when the owner is outside and within visible range of the animal. Tethering is prohibited during extreme weather and from dusk until dawn. Violations can result in fines up to $500.
- Marion County: Requires that tethered dogs be supervised and within the owner’s visible range. Exceptions allow for temporary tethering (up to 30 minutes) during short tasks. Tethers must meet specific safety standards regarding length and weight.
- Highlands County: Limits tethering to no more than four consecutive hours and eight hours in 24 hours. Dogs under six months cannot be tethered unless supervised. Violations can lead to fines up to $500 or imprisonment for repeat offenses.
- Pompano Beach: Completely prohibits outdoor tethering as a method of confinement. Fines escalate from $100 for the first offense to $500 for subsequent offenses.
Recent Legislative Developments: Dexter’s and Trooper’s Laws
In response to high-profile cases of animal cruelty, Florida enacted two significant laws in 2025:
- Trooper’s Law (SB 150): Named after a dog found tethered during Hurricane Milton, this law makes it a third-degree felony to restrain pets during declared natural disasters. It aims to prevent abandonment and ensure animal safety during emergencies.
- Dexter’s Law (HB 255): Establishes a registry for individuals convicted of animal abuse and mandates public disclosure of their offenses. It also increases penalties for severe animal cruelty, adding a 1.25 multiplier to punishments for aggravated offenses.
Both laws were signed by Governor Ron DeSantis and are set to take effect in the latter half of 2025.
Enforcement and Penalties
Enforcement of tethering laws varies by jurisdiction but generally involves:
- Warnings and Fines: Initial violations often result in warnings, with escalating fines for repeated offenses.
- Criminal Charges: Severe or repeated violations, especially those involving animal cruelty, can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges, potentially resulting in imprisonment.
- Animal Seizure: In cases of neglect or abuse, authorities may remove animals from the owner’s custody to ensure their safety.
Conclusion
Florida’s approach to dog tethering combines state statutes with localized ordinances to address the diverse needs of its communities. Recent legislative actions underscore the state’s commitment to animal welfare, particularly during emergencies. Pet owners should familiarize themselves with both state and local regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of their animals.