Recommendation: That the Community Services Commission review a draft of the proposed dog park guidelines that will be included in the dog park ordinance.

The City of La Habra is excited to open it's first dog park in Spring 2025.  A proposed draft ordinance is being developed to help ensure the dog park is properly regulated and safe for all users. Staff reviewed the dog park Municipal Codes for the surrounding cities including Buena Park, Fullerton, Irvine, Orange & Seal Beach. The following guidelines were consistent in each city.

Dog Park Guidelines:

• Aggressive dogs are not allowed and dogs exhibiting behavior must be removed
• Female dogs in heat, pregnant, or lactating are not allowed
• Leashes must be on in all areas except within the confines of the dog park
• No outside food or drinks other than water
• All dogs must have valid registration, tags, and vaccinations
• Puppies (dogs less than 4–6 months) are not allowed in the park (Dogs less than 4 months old are not allowed in dog exercise areas according to State Law)
• Spike, pinch, or shock collars are not allowed
• Each adult is allowed a maximum of 3 dogs at the park
• All persons under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult
• Digging is not permitted and must be filled in by a handler
• All owners are responsible for picking up after their dog
• All other ordinances that govern public spaces and parks also apply to this park

The table below outlines additional information related to dog park operations:

	Buena Park	Fullerton	Irvine	Orange	Seal Beach
Staff Oversight	Yes	Yes, volunteers	No	No	No
Non-Resident Fees	No	No	No	No	Yes
Age for “Responsible Adults”	18 or over	16 or over	18 or over	16 or Over	18 or over
Age Restrictions	Under 18 needs adult	No Child under 8	Under 18 needs adult	Under 16 needs adult	Under 18 needs adult
Language Excluding Private Dog Obedience Lessons	No	Yes	Yes	No	Yes

 

There is no impact on the General Fund at this time.

General Plan Relevance:

Goal CI 5.1 Programs for Youth
Goal CI 5.2 Programs for Families

City Council Goals and Objectives:

Goal 3.B Maintain and upgrade City buildings, facilities, and parks
Goal 7.C Provide and maintain quality public services