SB236 Alabama 2015 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

J.T. WaggonerSenator

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2015

Title

Dogs, limits for chaining and tethering, seizure by humane officer, penalties, Alabama Dog Tethering and Outdoor Shelter Act

Summary

SB236 would ban tethering dogs to stationary objects, require defined outdoor shelter and space, and set penalties and enforcement rules for unlawful tethering.

What This Bill Does

It prohibits tethering a dog to stationary objects and sets a minimum age of six months for tethering. It allows outside confinement only through a size-based outdoor pen or enclosure, a fully fenced yard, or a tethering system with strict safety rules. It defines unlawful tethering, outlines enforcement steps, and imposes penalties, including warnings, a 72-hour correction window, possible Class B misdemeanors, and potential seizure of a dog; exemptions and an effective date are also specified, and the bill is exempt from certain local-funding requirements because it creates or amends a crime.

Who It Affects

• Dog owners and keepers in Alabama, who must provide adequate shelter and space and may face penalties for violations.
• Humane officers, law enforcement, and shelter operators who enforce the rules, handle warnings, penalties, and potential seizure, and manage exemptions for certain activities.

Key Provisions

• Prohibits tethering dogs to stationary objects and sets a six-month age minimum for tethering.
• Establishes outside confinement options: size-based outdoor pens/enclosures, fully fenced yards, or a trolley/cable tether system with specific safety and water/shelter requirements.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Dogs