Del. P.J.I. Civ. § 10.20

DOG RUNNING FREE

Delaware law provides that:

No dog, unless exempted under [as described herein], shall

be permitted to run at large outside at any time, and must

be secured by means of a leash that is capable of physically

restraining the movement of the dog. A dog is not at large

if it is within the real property limits of its owner, or on

private property with permission, or within a vehicle being

driven or parked.

The following dogs are exempt:

a. Working dogs, which are dogs that are not merely pets

but that learn and perform tasks to assist their human

companions, and include dogs trained to hunt, herd, assist

law enforcement or search and rescue personnel, or assist

persons with disabilities, while actively engaged in

performing such functions.

b. Dogs within a designated “off-leash” dog park or area,

or within an area permitted by a governmental entity,

including a municipality, and attended by the dog’s owner

or custodian.

Violation of this law constitutes negligence as a matter of law.