Local rules
What professional dog walkers in Washington are expected to know — in plain language, with the actual citations.Verified by the Top Dog SF team · September 2026
DC Code 8-1808(a)(1) is short and broad: an owner or custodian shall not allow their animal to go at large. 'Custodian' reaches you, not just the client. 8-1808(e) adds that no dog may be on any school ground or public recreation area, other than a dog park, unless on a leash, tether, or otherwise under adequate means of control by a person CAPABLE OF PHYSICALLY RESTRAINING IT. That last clause is the one to think about with a pack: control has to be physical and real, not notional.
DC Code §8-1808(a)(1), (e) · official source
Every DC dog needs an annual licence, due before 1 July: $15 if altered, $50 if not, free for service animals. DC is stricter than most on vaccination — it requires rabies AND DISTEMPER, not just rabies — and any outstanding fines must be paid before a licence issues. Check both vaccinations with new clients, because the distemper requirement catches people who've moved from elsewhere.
DC Code §8-1804 · official source
The full pack — plus U.S.-wide baselines and an assessment localized to Washington — is included with the Certified Professional Dog Walker.
Get certified — with Washington 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.