Portland enforces stricter leash laws in parks

Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) has revised its leash law enforcement protocols, allowing Park Rangers to issue citations for off-leash dogs without prior warnings. Previously, Rangers needed to issue a warning before citation, complicating enforcement since they were authorized to issue citations since 2013. The new policy responds to community concerns about off-leash dogs and aims to enhance safety and cleanliness in city parks. Rangers will pilot the updated policy in areas with notable off-leash issues, supported by an educational outreach effort. PP&R will also distribute free leashes and park-branded poop bag holders to encourage compliance with the leash law.

The policy reinforces Portland's commitment to designated dog off-leash areas (DOLAs), established in 1995, which provide spaces for dogs to play freely. Leashed dogs are permitted in nearly all parks, though some areas, such as Tanner Springs Park and Whitaker Ponds Nature Park, prohibit dogs altogether. For further details about dog policies in Portland parks, residents can visit the official PP&R website.