Updated Dog Control Ordinance Adopted by City Council

Dogs must be under the control of their keeper when off the owner’s premises. This generally means dogs must be on a leash and not allowed to run at large, except in locations or situations where off-leash use is specifically permitted by law.

Number of Dogs Allowed

The ordinance establishes limits on the number of adult dogs that may be kept at a residence:

• Up to four adult dogs at a single-family dwelling
• Up to two adult dogs at a duplex, multifamily, or other dwelling type

No more than one adult female dog may be kept for breeding purposes at any dwelling. Dogs under six months of age are not counted toward these limits.

Nonconforming Dogs

Dogs that were lawfully kept in excess of the new limits before the ordinance took effect may be considered nonconforming if the following requirements are met:

• The keeper must file a Nonconforming Dog Declaration with Animal Control within sixty days of the ordinance’s effective date, by March 8, 2026.
• Each declared nonconforming dog must be licensed no later than July 1, 2026.

How to Declare a Nonconforming Dog

Detailed instructions, required forms, and submission options for filing a Nonconforming Dog Declaration can be found on the City’s website at thedalles.org/DogControlTD.

Nonconforming dogs may not be replaced. As nonconforming dogs cease, the number of dogs kept at a property must be reduced over time until it complies with the ordinance.

Dog Licensing Requirement

All adult dogs kept within the City must be licensed. Dog licenses are required by July 1, 2026, and must be maintained thereafter. Licensing requires a current rabies vaccination certificate and payment of the applicable fee.

More information will be shared soon regarding where and how to obtain a dog license. Licensing fees will be approved by City Council at the January 26, 2026 City Council meeting as part of the adoption of the new City Fee Schedule.

Education and Compliance

The City’s initial focus will be on education and helping residents understand the new requirements. Enforcement actions may occur when necessary, particularly in cases involving public safety concerns or ongoing noncompliance.

Additional information, including forms and licensing details, will be available on the City’s website at thedalles.org/DogControlTD.

Residents with questions are encouraged to contact the Animal Control Officer for assistance at jabaker@thedalles.gov.