Dog Leash Laws & Fines in London, Ontario

Public Health and Welfare Ontario 3 Minutes Read · published February 12, 2026 Flag of Ontario

In London, Ontario, dog owners must follow municipal rules about leashing, control and licensing to protect public health and welfare. This guide explains where leash rules apply, common offences, how enforcement works, and practical steps to report problems or appeal decisions. It cites official City of London resources for bylaws, pet licensing, and by-law enforcement so you can confirm requirements and submit complaints directly.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of London enforces animal and dog-related rules through its By-law Enforcement and Animal Services divisions. Specific monetary fine amounts for leash offences are not specified on the cited page; see the official city pages for the controlling bylaw and enforcement procedures[1][2].

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page; consult the linked municipal pages for current amounts[1].
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offence ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to comply, seizure of animals where public safety is at risk, and court prosecution may be used; details are set out by the city and enforcement officers.
  • Enforcer: By-law Enforcement and Animal Services (City of London). To report or request enforcement, use the city contact and complaint pages[2].
  • Appeals and review: the cited pages do not specify appeal time limits or the administrative review route; if charged, court processes generally apply and timelines will appear on official notices.
  • Defences and discretion: officers exercise discretion for immediate public-safety concerns; any permitted exemptions or special licences are not specified on the cited page.
If you receive a ticket, read the notice for instructions on payment or how to dispute the charge in court.

Common violations

  • Dog off-leash in areas where leashes are required — typical result: fine or warning depending on circumstances.
  • Failure to keep a dog under control (aggressive or running at large) — may lead to seizure or prosecution.
  • Failing to pick up and dispose of dog waste where required — often enforced with fines or warnings.

Applications & Forms

Pet licensing and animal services information, including licence applications and online payment options, are published by the City of London; specific form names or numbers are not specified on the cited pages—see the licensing and animal services links to apply or download forms[1].

Most licensing applications are handled online or at designated municipal service locations.

How enforcement works

By-law officers and Animal Services investigate complaints, issue warnings or tickets, and may seize animals posing immediate danger. To request enforcement, use the city's online complaint form or contact By-law Enforcement directly[2]. Officers document incidents and may refer serious cases to the courts.

Action steps

  • Licensing: confirm your pet licence and renew online if required.
  • Report: submit an online complaint or call By-law Enforcement for aggressive animals.
  • Pay or dispute: follow instructions on any ticket or notice; see court details if disputing.

FAQ

Do dogs have to be on a leash in London?
Yes, dogs must be leashed where the municipal rules require leashes; check city maps and rules for designated off-leash areas[1].
How do I report a dog that is dangerous or running at large?
Contact By-law Enforcement or Animal Services using the City of London complaint pages; in emergencies call local police if there is immediate danger[2].
What are the fines for leash violations?
Specific fine amounts are not specified on the cited municipal pages; refer to the official City of London bylaw and enforcement pages for current fines[1].

How-To

How to report an aggressive or off-leash dog to City of London enforcement:

  1. Gather details: location, time, description of the dog and behaviour, photos if safe to take.
  2. Contact By-law Enforcement or use the city online complaint form to submit the report[2].
  3. Provide your contact information for follow-up, or request anonymity if allowed.
  4. Follow up if you receive a notice or ticket and act according to instructions for payment or dispute.

Key Takeaways

  • Keep dogs leashed where required and maintain control to avoid enforcement action.
  • Report dangerous animals promptly to By-law Enforcement or Animal Services.
  • Check City of London pet licensing pages for forms and renewal information.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of London - Dogs and animal services information
  2. [2] City of London - By-law Enforcement contact and complaint pages

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