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Dogs in Parks - Know the Rules
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In an effort to increase safety and minimize risk to all users of our parks, the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities and Animal Care and Control would like to remind the public of the city's laws regarding dogs in parks and on playgrounds.
First and foremost, dogs and cats must be licensed in the City of Richmond.
In addition, no dogs at all - leashed or unleashed - are allowed at Maymont, the Azalea Gardens at Bryan Park, park recreation areas, children's play lots, athletic fields, or any area posted as an area where dogs are not allowed. This is especially important to remember now that so many children will be playing outdoors in city parks and on playgrounds during the summer and participating in summer sports on the city's athletic fields.
Also remember, it is not just good manners to clean up after your pet, it's the law. Section 10-86 of the city's code requires dog owners to pick up and remove animal waste.
The laws regarding dogs in parks are set forth in Section 10-174 of the city's code, and individuals who break these laws can be fined as much as $250.
To report a violation of these ordinances or an animal in need of assistance, please call Animal Care and Control at 646-5573. For an after hours animal emergency, call 646-5123. And of course, in any emergency you can always call 911.
New - Dogs now allowed in certain areas of Byrd Park
An ordinance to allow dogs in certain areas of Byrd Park was passed unanimously by City Council on Oct. 27.
The new ordinance enacts a one-year trial program from Dec. 1, 2008 until Dec. 1, 2009, at which time it will be reviewed and considered for permanent implementation.
The ordinance includes the usual restrictions, such as no dogs allowed in buildings and athletic areas or on playgrounds. Also, dogs are not allowed in the entire Vita Course area or on the triangle plot beside Fountain Lake where many people sunbathe.
All dogs in the park, of course, must be on a leash at all times, and owners must pick up after their dogs.
Signage will be posted and disposal bag stations will be strategically placed around the park.
Additionally, dogs are allowed in Barker Dog Park (which is located adjacent to Dogwood Dell) and Chimborazo Dog Park (located on the eastern lower terrace of Chimborazo Park in Church Hill at 32nd and East Broad Streets). Both dog parks are open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset.
Rules Regarding Dogs in Parks
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