Frequently Asked Questions

Dog playing with toy Dogs Together Dog in field with ball


What is a dog park? A dog park is a location set aside for dogs and their owners to exercise and play off-leash in a controlled (i.e. fenced) environment.

What are the hours of the dog park? Park hours are dawn to dusk (subject to closure for required maintenance operations).  Under no circumstances are you permitted in the park before 6 a.m. and after 10 p.m.

If I observe a problem at the park, what should I do?

Can I bring more than one dog to the park?  No more than two dogs are permitted, per handler, at one time.  Professional dog trainers are not permitted to conduct training onsite.

In addition to the new dog park tag my pet will need to display, what else should I have?  Dog owners must have their dog licensed with the City, County or other municipal jurisdiction to apply for an off-lease dog permit.  Current dog licenses must be displayed.

Am I responsible for cleaning up after my dog?  Yes.  A receptacle for waste will be located on site; however, we will not be providing bags or scoops.  A box will also be provided for dog owners to donate bags for other park users.

What should I bring with me to the park?  Please remember to have your dog(s) license and permit tags visible at all times and that they are current.  Also, water and bags.

Will the dog parks be policed or monitored by the Parks and Recreation Services Unit?  There will not be a park staff person stationed at the dog park, however, police will monitor the areas periodically.  Additionally, volunteers in the community are organizing a group to monitor the park during peak hours.

When does my dog have to be on a leash at the park?  Until you and your dog enter the fenced dog play area, your dog(s) has to be leashed.

Why is there a fee for the dog park and what will the monies be used for?  An annual off-leash dog permit will be required for access to the designated off-leash dog play areas.  The permitting requirement will enable the City to provide safe environments in off-least dog play areas for users and their pets.

If my pet is a service dog, do I need to purchase a dog park permit in Ann Arbor?  The fee for the permit will be waived, however, you will still be required to fill out the appropriate paper for for an application and have the tag displayed.

Who should I contact for information about volunteer opportunities in the dog park?  Canine Social club, www.caninesocialclub.net

Do I need to be a resident of Ann Arbor/Washtenaw County to obtain a dog park permit?  No, anyone can use the dog parks once their pet meets the requirements to obtain a permit.

*Scholarships are available.  For additional information please contact (734) 994-2780.



This is printed from: http://www.ewashtenaw.org/government/departments/parks_recreation/dog_park/faq.html
on Nov. 22, 2008 4:52 am