Enjoy your dog--but if he runs loose, you risk a fine.
Wichita's leash law makes it a misdemeanor to allow any animal except a cat to run at large. All animals must be confined by a means approved under the ordinance. This includes: inside a dwelling; in a fenced area or secure enclosure; on a leash, rope or chain; or within an electronic fencing system.
Secure Enclosures
A fence or secure enclosure must pass city muster.
Wichita's ordinance defines a "secure enclosure" as a locked pen at least 6 feet wide, 12 feet long, and 6 feet high. It must be capped if the dog can climb fence or if there is a dog house inside. The pen must have secure sides, provide protection from the elements, prevent the escape of the dog, and prevent young children from entry. It must be inspected and approved by Animal Control.
Electronic Fencing
A leash or other restraint system is a must in Wichita.
An electronic fence system is considered adequate confinement if the dog is wearing the necessary components of the system and the premises are clearly marked to show the existence of the electronic fencing system.
Tethering
A dog can be tethered outside for up to one hour at a time, but only under certain conditions. The chain, rope, or cable used to tether the dog must be at least 10 feet long, and the dog must be able to move about without danger of strangulation. The cable, rope or chain must be sufficient to restrain the dog, but not heavier than 1/8 of the dog's body weight, so as not to interfere with the dog's freedom to move the length of the tether. Also, the dog must have at least three hours break from being tethered before it can be tethered again, and cannot be tethered more than three one-hour periods on any day.
Penalties
Obeying the leash law avoids a fine.
Under Wichita's leash law, the first time an animal is picked up by animal control, the owner will be fined at least $50. The second time, the fine will be at least $100. For the third conviction, the fine will be at least $200. If your dog is impounded by Animal Control, you can be required to have the animal spayed or neutered. If the dog is not spayed or neutered, you can be required to have a microchip implanted in the animal.
Tags: secure enclosure, Animal Control, electronic fencing, electronic fencing system, feet long, fencing system