Pets And Livestock

Household Pets and Fulton County Pet Registration

Fulton County animal ordinances require all dog and cat owners to license their pets. Owners of dogs and cats over four months of age are responsible for obtaining a pet license. Visit the Fulton County Animal Services Pet Licensing page for registration requirements and additional information. Pet owners who do not comply may be subject to enforcement action by Fulton County.

Pet Adoption

Pet adoption is an affordable way to provide a home for a dog or cat in need. Learn about available pets and adoption opportunities through Fulton County Animal Services Adoption Services.

Dogs

Leash Laws

When outside, dogs must be restrained by a fence, wall, or other enclosure, or be on a leash no longer than six feet.

The following activities are exempt from leash requirements:

Dogs participating in or training for obedience trials
Field trials
Dog shows
Tracking work
Law enforcement activities

Pet Waste

Dog owners are required to remove and properly dispose of pet waste left on sidewalks, gutters, streets, lots, parks, and other public property. Waste should be placed in a sealed container and disposed of in a trash receptacle, sanitary disposal unit, or other approved refuse container.

The exception applies to visually impaired individuals using a guide dog.

Dog Park

The City opened its first off-leash dog park at Morgan Falls in 2010. The park includes separate fenced areas for large and small dogs. Most City of Sandy Springs parks allow dogs provided they remain leashed and owners clean up after their pets.

Barking Noise Complaints

Dogs naturally bark, but excessive barking may violate the City's noise ordinances. Residents may report excessive noise by calling 911 or contacting Code Enforcement during normal business hours at 770-730-5600.

Kennels

Any property where four or more dogs over four months of age are kept, maintained, or harbored for 14 days or longer is considered a kennel. Property owners or occupants must obtain a Kennel Permit.

Livestock

Sandy Springs residents who own livestock, including horses, mules, cows, sheep, goats, hogs, and other animals used or suitable for food or labor, must comply with applicable City ordinances. Refer to the Sandy Springs Code of Ordinances for information about animal limits and land requirements.

Deer

The proximity of Sandy Springs to parkland and the Chattahoochee River creates favorable habitat for deer. Deer are commonly seen in wooded residential areas. Fall is the primary breeding season for deer in Georgia and is also a time when deer-vehicle collisions increase. Learn more in the University of Georgia deer movement study.

Hunting

Learn more about local hunting regulations on the Hunting Information page.

Animal Complaints

Fulton County Animal Services handles complaints involving domestic animals. Wildlife-related concerns should be directed to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources at 770-918-6400.