08/27/2026
🚨 PUBLIC NOTICE 🚨
BEAU’S LAW
Senate Bill 361
Effective October 1, 2026
The Cullman Police Department would like to inform the public about Beau’s Law (Senate Bill 361), a new Alabama law establishing requirements for the care, shelter, confinement, and tethering of dogs.
STATE LAW CRITERIA
🍽️ Food & Water
Owners must provide dogs with adequate food and potable water at suitable intervals and in sufficient amounts to prevent starvation or dehydration.
🏠 Adequate Shelter
Dogs kept outdoors must have adequate shelter that protects them from the elements. The shelter must have a roof, walls, and a floor and provide enough space for the dog to comfortably stand, turn around, lie down, and extend its limbs. The shelter must also be adequately ventilated and kept free of accumulated waste and standing water.
🐕 Enclosure & Movement
Dogs kept in outdoor enclosures must be provided adequate space to move freely and must be kept within a secure, fully fenced enclosure.
⚠️ TETHERING RULES
Banned Equipment:
The law prohibits the use of logging chains, choke collars, and pinch collars to tether a dog.
Safe Tethers:
When a dog is tethered to a stationary object, the tether must use a trolley system that meets the requirements of the law. The tether must have a swivel on both ends to minimize tangling and must be attached to a properly fitted collar or harness.
Boundaries:
A tether may not allow the dog to leave the owner's property, become entangled with other objects or animals, or extend over an object or edge that could cause injury or strangulation.
⚖️ PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS
First Offense: Class C misdemeanor — up to 3 months in jail and a fine of up to $500
Second Offense: Class B misdemeanor — up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $3,000
Third & Subsequent Offenses: Class A misdemeanor — up to 1 year in jail and a fine of up to $6,000
The law includes specific exceptions for certain circumstances, including veterinary practices, animal shelters, boarding kennels, lawful dog training, service or assistance dogs, grooming facilities, temporary circumstances, and dogs being walked on a leash.
The Cullman Police Department encourages all dog owners to familiarize themselves with Beau’s Law before it takes effect on October 1, 2026.
Responsible pet ownership means providing our animals with proper care, protection, food, water, and shelter.
Notice provided by:
Cullman Police Department
Animal Control
