It is not legal for an owner to permit any animal to trespass upon the private property of another. It is also unlawful for any person to permit pets, other than cats, to be at large on public property. (Cats are allowed to be at large on public property, but not trespass on private property.)

“At large” means:

A. that the animal is not physically restrained on the owner’s (or keeper's) premises (or vehicle)

B. or that the animal is not physically restrained while on public property by a leash, tether or other physical control device and under physical control of a capable person. The leash or restraint device must be 8 feet in length or less.

Steps for Solving:

1. If you know who owns the animal, talk to the owner to let him/her know about the problem. He or she may be willing and able to solve the issue. If the animal is a cat, please see “10 Tips for Keeping Cats Out of Yards and Gardens”.


2. If the owner is unwilling to retrieve his/her animal (or keep it restrained) or you don’t know who owns the animal, you have several options:
   
   A. Bring the animal to MCAS during open shelter hours.
   
   B. You may be able to call MCAS and arrange to have the animal picked up by an animal control officer.
   
   C. You may file a formal complaint using either the Animal Nuisance Complaint Form or the Cat Trespass Complaint Form. Both forms must either be signed by at least two other neighbors (three people total) or if signed by one person, it must be accompanied by photos and/or video showing the violation. After you have completed the Animal Nuisance Complaint Form, you can either bring it or Multnomah County Animal Services at 1700 W. Columbia River Highway in Troutdale or you may mail it to: MCAS, Attention: Legal Aide Officer, P.O. Box 698, Troutdale, OR 97060.
   
   D. If an animal is at large because it is a lost stray pet, please see our "Did You Find a Pet?" web page.

To learn about what happens after filing a complaint, please see the “Notice of Infraction Process” web page.