An electronic fence or an electronic collar, defined as a fence or a collar that controls the movement of a dog by emitting an electrical shock when the animal wearing the collar nears the boundary of the property, may be considered a suitable fence as long as the dog(s) confined by an electronic fence or an electronic collar, shall not be nearer than 10 feet away from any public sidewalk or property line that is contiguous to neighboring property. In addition, the dog(s) are not allowed to be confined by an electronic fence or an electronic collar in the front yard.
Homeowners who use an electronic fence shall clearly post their property to indicate to the public that a dog is confined to the property by an electronic fence or electronic collar.
An electric fence, defined as a fence that shocks an animal or person upon the person or animal touching it, shall not be considered a proper restraining device.
The ordinance addressing electronic fences for dogs can be found in OP Municipal Code 6.08.020.
This ordinance was designed to:
- Protect walkers. Dogs sitting in a front yard could be frightening or dangerous. If a dog gets excited by walkers, a rabbit or another dog, it could bolt through the fence.
Penalties for violating the ordinance:
- First offense: $50 fine
- Second offense: $150
- Third and up: $500