‘Who let the dogs out?’ Parks that’s who!

The battle over Bowser’s right to roam free in city Parks ended on Tuesday, April 10 with dogs and their owners howling for joy as the Parks Department announced a change in the rules concerning off-leash dogs in parks.
Thirty days from now, the successful “courtesy hours” policy will officially become part of Parks’ rules and regulations. With proof of a current rabies vaccination and license information, owners can allow dogs to run off-leash in certain designated areas from the time the park opens until 9 a.m. and from 9 p.m. until the park closes.
“Through a public process, the Parks Department codified the successful, long-standing “courtesy hours” policy for the benefit of all New Yorkers,” said Parks Commissioner Adrian Benepe. “We know that a tired dog is a good dog and for the last two decades, this policy has made parks safer and has allowed dog owners to exercise and socialize their pets.”
Beginning May 10, parks will be grouped into four designated categories: No dogs allowed; Dogs must be on-leash at all times; designated dog run; and designated off-leash area.
The amended rule will also require all dogs in parks to be licensed and that owners be able to show proof that they have been vaccinated against rabies, as required by New York State and City law.
Not all parks will have off-leash hours - and in some areas such as playgrounds, ball fields and zoos dogs will continue to be prohibited at all times.
For more information, including a list of off-leash areas, dog runs, and all Parks Rules & Regulations concerning dogs in parks visit www.nyc.gov/parks/dogs.