Pets Trespassing & At Large

It is illegal for an owner to allow any animal to trespass on the private property of another. It is also illegal for any person to allow 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

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

Managing Stray or Found Animals

Managing Known Owned Animals Trespassing

  1. If you know who owns the animal, talk to them to let him or her know about the problem. He or she may be willing and able to solve the issue. If the animal is a cat, see "Keeping Cats Out of Gardens".
  2. If the owner is unwilling to retrieve his/her animal (or keep it restrained) after your efforts to address these concerns with them directly:
  • File a formal complaint:

    (PDF, 170KB).

    The form 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 to:

Multnomah County Animal Services
1700 W Historic Columbia River Highway
Troutdale, OR 97060

or you may mail it to:

Multnomah County Animal Services
Attention: Legal Aide Officer
1700 W Historic Columbia River Highway
Troutdale, OR 97060
 

3. Learn about what happens after filing a complaint.