Phoenix City Council Approves Updates to Animal Cruelty Ordinance

As we move into the full swing of summer, Arizona’s heat becomes dangerous—especially for our four‑legged family members. With temperatures regularly soaring past 100 degrees, the Phoenix Mayor and City Council approved updates to the City’s Animal Cruelty Ordinance, specifically the section on dog restraints or “tethering”, aimed at improving safety, strengthening humane requirements, and helping residents protect their animals in extreme conditions.

"Phoenix summers are intense, and our pets feel the heat too. These updates strengthen humane standards and give families clearer guidance on how to keep their dogs safe, especially during the hottest months of the year,” Mayor Kate Gallego said. "The goal is simple: clear guidelines and a shared commitment to keeping our four-legged family members safe."

During its June 17, 2026, meeting, the Council adopted changes that adjust how and when restraints can be used on private property. Under the updated ordinance, it is unlawful to confine a dog using a tether, trolley, or similar device unless the dog is under the direct supervision or control of its owner or handler. Direct supervision means keeping the dog within visual range at all times.

City leaders emphasized that these updates are especially important when temperatures climb. Dogs may not be restrained outdoors at any time during extreme weather. This includes temperatures above 100 degrees, heat advisories, monsoon activity, or dust storm warnings—conditions that can quickly overwhelm a dog’s ability to regulate body temperature. The ordinance reinforces that any restraint must allow access to food, water, shade, dry ground, and adequate shelter.

Animal‑care experts note that chronic tethering and inadequate shade or water can lead not only to heat-related emergencies but also to dehydration, paw burns on hot surfaces, stress-related behaviors, and long-term physical injuries. The updates aim to prevent those hazards and encourage responsible pet care citywide.

The ordinance also updates standards for restraint length. Dogs may not be secured in a way that limits their natural movement, causes physical or emotional distress, or prevents them from behaving normally. Any restraint used must be at least six feet long. Previously, the minimum length was ten feet, but the revised requirement is intended to emphasize appropriate use and supervision rather than long-term tethering.

Commander Aimee Smith of the Phoenix Police Department underscored the significance of the changes, “These updates give officers clearer tools to intervene before a dog ends up in crisis. Every summer, we see preventable emergencies. Stronger standards and clearer expectations help us protect animals and support the community in doing the right thing.”

Community members are reminded that suspected animal neglect or abandonment can be reported to the Phoenix Police Department’s Animal Crimes Detail. Anyone observing an animal in immediate distress should call 911.

The updated ordinance goes into effect in approximately 30 days and is available online.