Do I need a dog licence? What are the leash rules?
In the City of Toronto, Ontario, dogs & animal control rules are set by Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 349, Animals, verified 2026-10-28. Fines: no more than $100,000; no more than $10,000 per day; no more than $25,000. A licence is required. Leash rule: No person shall keep a dog off the premises of the owner other than on a leash which shall not exceed two metres in length.
Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 349, Animals
adopted bylaw
licence required
yes
§ 349-11
leash rule
No person shall keep a dog off the premises of the owner other than on a leash which shall not exceed two metres in length
§ 349-12.1A
max animals
three dogs; six cats; four rabbits or guinea pigs
§ 349-5A, § 349-5B, § 349-5E
fine range
no more than $100,000; no more than $10,000 per day; no more than $25,000
§ 349-27A, § 349-27D, § 349-27E, § 349-27F
scout note
Toronto requires dogs and cats to be licensed with the City (fees in Chapter 441). Dogs may not be at large and must be leashed off the owner's premises except in designated off-leash areas; no one may walk more than 3 dogs without a permit. Limit of 3 dogs and 4 rabbits/guinea pigs per dwelling unit; many wild/exotic animals prohibited.
Dogs in the City (Toronto)
City hub for dog rules, dangerous dog orders, off-leash areas and complaints under the Animals By-law.
Responsible Dog Ownership (Toronto)
Dogs must be leashed in public outside off-leash areas (fine $500); tether over 3 m for up to 1 hour unsupervised; $400 fine for not picking up waste.