D.C. Mun. Regs. r. 19-730
The District of Columbia's Department of Parks and Recreation herein provides guidelines and rules for the application, development and operation of neighborhood fenced-in, off-leash dog parks
In October 2005, the Council of the District of Columbia unanimously passed legislation amending the Animal Control Act of 1979, effective October 18, 1979 (D.C. Law 3-30; D.C. Official Code 8-1801 et seq.)(2001) which authorized the Mayor to create fenced-in, off-leash dog parks. The Council recognized that a significant and growing portion of residents needed safe places to recreate and exercise together with their dogs. The creation of dog parks in the District of Columbia requires a certain degree of flexibility, due to the density of buildings as well as the scarcity of District-owned parkland. Successful dog parks require partnerships with the community that enhance and protect the character of the neighborhood and accommodate changing needs.
D.C. Mun. Regs. r. 19-730