In Montana, whether it is illegal to leave your pet chained outside depends on both state law and local ordinances, as there is no single statewide law explicitly banning all outdoor tethering, but there are important protections and restrictions.
Statewide Law
Montana’s general animal cruelty law (Mont. Code Ann. § 45-8-211) prohibits cruelty to animals, which can include neglect or failure to provide adequate care.
If a pet is left chained outside in a manner that causes suffering, exposes them to extreme weather, or denies access to food, water, or shelter, this could be considered animal cruelty and is punishable as a misdemeanor (first offense) or felony (subsequent offenses).
However, the law does not specifically mention tethering or chaining, so enforcement depends on the circumstances and whether the animal’s welfare is compromised.
Local Ordinances
Many cities and counties in Montana have their own ordinances regarding tethering or chaining pets outside:
Hardin, Montana: Tethering a dog outdoors is unlawful unless specific conditions are met. These include: the dog must be in visual range of the responsible party, who must be outside with the dog; the tether must be safe and appropriate (buckle collar or harness, at least five times the dog’s body length, swivel ends, not too heavy, and free of tangles); the dog must not be outside during extreme weather; the dog must have access to water, shelter, and dry ground; puppies under six months cannot be tethered; and the dog must not be sick or injured.
Miles City, Montana: Animals must not be left tethered in a way that impedes access to public buildings, sidewalks, or public areas. Owners must have adequate control over their animals at all times.
Bozeman, Montana: Dogs in public spaces must be leashed or chained, but there are no explicit restrictions for tethering on private property unless the dog is found at large repeatedly or is deemed dangerous.
Key Takeaways
No statewide ban on tethering: Montana does not have a law that outright bans leaving your pet chained outside, but animal cruelty laws apply if the animal is suffering.
Local restrictions: Many cities and counties have specific rules about how and when pets can be tethered, especially regarding safety, supervision, and access to necessities.
Animal cruelty: Neglect or failure to provide basic needs while chaining a pet can be prosecuted under animal cruelty statutes.
Summary Table
| Jurisdiction | Tethering Allowed? | Key Restrictions/Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Montana State | Yes (with limits) | Must not cause suffering or neglect; animal cruelty laws apply |
| Hardin, MT | Yes (with limits) | Supervision, safe tether, weather protection, access to necessities, age/sickness limits |
| Miles City, MT | Yes (with limits) | Not in public access areas; owner must maintain control |
| Bozeman, MT | Yes (with limits) | Public spaces: leash required; private property: no explicit ban unless dog is at large |
Sources:
1. https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/hardin-montana/
2. https://montanapetdentist.com/leash-laws-bozeman-montana/
3. https://lincolncountymt.us/wp-
