The Hernando County Commission approved changes to the tethering ordinance (Ordinance No. 2016-13) to limit the ordinance to only apply to cats and dogs. Before this change the tethering ordinance applied to all animals.
The tethering ordinance specifies that a dog or cat’s tether must be able to extend at least 10 feet in all directions and be applied to a properly fitted buckle style collar or harness. The leash or lead may not be attached directly to the dog or cat’s neck in lieu of a manufactured harness. The tether is not allowed to extend over any objects that might lead to entanglement. It also states that you cannot tether a dog or cat unless they are visible to you at all times.
The ordinance also specifies what constitutes adequate shelter for dogs and cats. The dog or cat must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down with their limbs outstretched. The shelter must be well ventilated with proper insulation for local climatic conditions.
Tethering and/or inappropriately sheltering a cat or dog in violation of the provisions of the ordinance are a Class V violations (minor violation). The dog or cat can also be impounded.