Howard County Animal Control Laws

All animal owners in Columbia are subject to the Howard County Animal Control laws. Here are a few summarized requirements under Section 17.300 of the Howard County Animal Control Law:

1. A pet must be on a leash and under control when not on an owner’s property.

2. Owners are responsible for removing pet defecation when off their own property.

3. Owners must remove an accumulation of pet defecation from their property to prevent annoying odors and rodent infestation (Animal feces is a food source for rats).

4. Owners are responsible for preventing their dogs from barking to the extent that it disturbs neighbors.

Residents who have concerns about animal behavior or the care and control of animals are urged to call Animal Control for more information and enforcement of the regulations: 410-313-2780.