Here's the official response on regulations gathered after some back and forth. I thanked them for the clarifications and asked them to update the 2015 PDF when they can find the time to do so as it seems a lot of people think voice control just means your dog can hear you yell its name.
I had sent a further email before I got a response from a previous one (which included a query if the 6 foot rule was just for trails or also included off-trail travel), which prompted this exchange:* Dogs must be on a 6 foot leash in campgrounds, developed recreation sites, and on trails near people, horses, or mules.
* Under strict leash control, or at your heel at your command in other areas.
* Don't leave dog unattended or barking excessively.
* Pick up or bury waste 6-8 inches deep and 100 feet away from water, trails, and other campsites.
* Store dog food in bear canisters.
* Keep dog in your tent or car at night.
* Prohibited on trails in the National Parks.
* No dogs Whitney Portal trail past Trail Crest because in National Park.
* $150/violation.
Our law enforcement officers describe a dog under voice control looks exactly like an invisible 6 foot leash. If the dog is farther than 6 feet from the owner, does not respond to a voice command immediately the first time command is given, the dog is not under control.
Most likely you will not have a law enforcement officer handy when you pass by someone with a dog, so you will need to relay to the owner that you are concerned about safely passing and ask them to restrain the dog.
We do give some latitude for people using a retractable leash that is longer than 6 feet because they still have physical control of the dog and can reel them in to less than 6 feet when passing other groups or stock.
Me: That actually answers all my other questions if I’m reading it right - dogs have to be within 6 feet of their owners at all times.
NFS: You are correct. [then comment on retractable leashes]