Louisiana Dog Poop Laws by County: What Pet Owners Need to Know
Owning a dog in Louisiana is a joyful experience, but it also comes with legal and social responsibilities. One of the most overlooked duties of a dog owner is cleaning up after your pet. While Louisiana doesn’t have a statewide dog poop law, most counties and cities enforce local ordinances requiring pet waste cleanup.
This guide covers dog poop laws by county across Louisiana, helping you understand your local obligations, avoid fines, and be a responsible pet parent in every part of the state.
Is There a Statewide Dog Poop Law in Louisiana?
No, Louisiana does not have a statewide dog poop law. Instead, the state allows local governments—cities, towns, and parishes—to create and enforce their own rules regarding pet waste. Most of these ordinances require that dog owners pick up feces from public places and other people’s private property.
Whether you’re walking your dog in New Orleans or rural Rapides Parish, cleaning up after them is expected—and usually legally required.
Major Louisiana Parishes and Cities with Dog Waste Laws
Orleans Parish (New Orleans)
New Orleans has a clear ordinance requiring dog owners to clean up pet waste immediately. According to the New Orleans Municipal Code Section 18-14, leaving dog poop in public or on private property not owned by the dog owner is a citable offense. Fines can start at $100 and escalate for repeat violations.
- Applies to all public sidewalks, parks, and roadways
- Pet owners must carry waste removal supplies on walks
- Neighborhood associations may impose additional rules
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East Baton Rouge Parish (Baton Rouge)
Baton Rouge enforces dog waste cleanup under nuisance laws and city ordinances. Section 14:206 of the Baton Rouge Code of Ordinances requires pet owners to remove feces from public places and private property not owned by them. Fines begin at $75 and may increase with repeated citations.
Areas like City-Brooks Community Park and the LSU Lakes often have signage and waste stations to promote responsible ownership.
Jefferson Parish
Jefferson Parish also requires dog owners to clean up pet waste in public areas. Under local health and sanitation codes, dog poop left in public spaces is considered a public nuisance. Fines typically range from $50 to $150 depending on the location and the number of violations.
Municipalities within Jefferson Parish—like Metairie and Kenner—may enforce additional rules through local ordinances or HOA agreements.
Lafayette Parish
Lafayette City-Parish Code requires immediate removal of pet feces. It is unlawful for any person to leave pet waste on public property or on someone else’s private property. Fines for violations start at $50 and may be enforced by animal control officers or local police.
Public parks such as Girard Park and Moncus Park are monitored regularly, and pet owners are expected to use available disposal bins.
Rapides Parish (Alexandria)
Alexandria has local ordinances requiring dog owners to clean up after their pets. Violations can result in fines starting at $25 for a first offense and increasing with additional citations. In community parks and walking trails, signage is posted as a reminder to pet owners.
In HOA-managed communities, fines and additional enforcement may also apply.
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Louisiana Parishes at a Glance
| Parish | Cleanup Required? | Fine Range | Enforcement Body |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orleans (New Orleans) | Yes | $100+ | City Code Enforcement |
| East Baton Rouge | Yes | $75–$200 | Baton Rouge Animal Control |
| Jefferson | Yes | $50–$150 | Parish Code Enforcement |
| Lafayette | Yes | $50+ | Lafayette Animal Control |
| Rapides (Alexandria) | Yes | $25–$100 | Alexandria Police / Animal Services |
How Are Dog Waste Laws Enforced?
In Louisiana, enforcement usually falls under local animal control or code enforcement officers. Most citations occur after complaints from residents or direct observations by city staff. Some cities also use neighborhood watch systems to identify and report violations.
- Public parks and dog areas often have signage and waste stations
- HOAs may fine residents who fail to clean up after their dogs
- Repeat violations may result in increased fines or legal action
Tips to Avoid Fines and Keep Your Community Clean
- Always carry dog poop bags when walking your pet
- Use designated waste stations in parks and neighborhoods
- Dispose of waste in a public or private trash bin
- Teach kids and other caregivers to clean up properly
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Are There Any Exceptions?
In rare cases, people with physical disabilities may be exempt under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) from cleaning up after a service dog if they are unable to do so. However, many service dog handlers still clean up or arrange assistance.
Other than that, there are no legal exceptions. All dog owners in Louisiana are expected to clean up their pet’s waste in public and shared spaces.
Conclusion
Whether you’re walking your dog through New Orleans’ French Quarter or enjoying a small-town park in Lafayette, the rules are clear—clean up after your dog. Dog poop laws in Louisiana are enforced locally, and failure to comply can result in fines and frustration from your community.
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