Local rules
What professional dog walkers in San Francisco are expected to know — in plain language, with the actual citations.Verified by the Top Dog SF team · July 2026
One leash per dog, and each leash must be shorter than 8 feet. Dogs must be leashed in public unless you're inside a designated off-leash area — know which SF parks and areas are on- and off-leash before you walk them.
CCSF Health Code §3900; SF Park Code
Every dog needs a current rabies vaccination and must wear tags showing rabies status and a contact phone number. Confirm both before taking a client's dog out.
CCSF Health Code
The full pack — plus U.S.-wide baselines and an assessment localized to San Francisco — is included with the Certified Professional Dog Walker.
Get certified — with San Francisco rules included →This is educational guidance for dog-care professionals, not legal advice. Rules change — always confirm with the official source before relying on a rule.