In Golden Valley, Dogs Must Now Be on a Leash

The Golden Valley City Council gave final approval Tuesday to an ordinance change that impacts all dog owners in the city.

Golden Valley will require dogs to be on a leash when on sidewalks, at parks and other public property. When other pets or people are within 20 feet, that leash must be no more than 6 feet long. Otherwise, a leash up to 20 feet is okay. The ordinance change takes effect as soon as it gets published.

This issue has been a longtime city goal. City officials first began discussing it in late 2020/early 2021, said Golden Valley Police Chief Jason Sturgis. Complaints from residents ultimately led to the change.

Prior to the city council vote Tuesday night, Golden Valley hadn’t updated its animal ordinance in decades.

Page 66 of the city council packet highlights the changes. In addition to the new leashing requirement, the ordinance would mandate pet owners to clean up excrement if their dog goes on public property or on a neighbor’s property. There would also be new tethering requirements and new sign requirements for electric fences on private property.

Also see: Golden Valley Moves Toward Leash Requirement for Dogs on Public Property

Golden Valley