What are the rules on animals running loose in Lincoln, Nebraska?
No animal is permitted to roam free off the owner’s property. This includes dogs, cats, and other animals. There are several ordinances that apply: The “Animal at Large” ordinance states no animal is permitted to roam free. If an animal leaves the owner’s or custodian’s property, it must be under the control of a responsible person and wearing a city pet license, if applicable. A dog can be loose on the owner’s property if within a fenced enclosure or tied/picketed or if the owner is present outside, the dog is in visual sight, and under his/her direct and effective voice control. It is illegal to just open the door for the dog to go to the “bathroom” and wander about the neighborhood. The “leash law” covers dogs only. This ordinance states that when a dog is being walked on any city sidewalk, city street or public right-of-way, it has to be on a leash or lead at all times. Dogs being walked on a leash must also be wearing a city pet license.
