Dog Leash & Pickup Ordinance Change

Boise Parks & Recreation Department and the Boise Police Department have recognized the need for change in the current ordinance regarding dogs in Boise Parks. Changes are being made to increase the safety and comfort of park patrons. Working together, the Parks & Recreation Department and Police Department have reviewed the existing Boise City Code and determined that the fine for having your dog off leash in a park was excessive. If you were cited for having a dog off leash, the fine could be up to $300.00, was recorded on your record as a misdemeanor, and could also require jail time.

Therefore, the worked together to amend the ordinance to lessen the penalty to an infraction, with a fine of $25.00 (plus court costs and fees.) Citizens now charged under this ordinance will not be required to schedule a court appearance before a judge and will have an option to either admit guilt and pay the set fine, or contest the charges before a judge at a court trial.

Pick Up Ordinance

In addition to the penalty for having your dog off leash, the ordinance now requires that dog owners remove fecal matter that their dogs deposit in public parks and to carry equipment to do so. Violations of this can also be cited as an infraction with the same penalty for having a dog off leash.

Retractable Leashes

At the City Council Meeting, another amendment to the Ordinance was made to allow the use of retractable leashes of any length. However, on the Greenbelt or within 250 feet of the Greenbelt, the leash length shall not exceed eight (8) feet in length.

Existing Codes

Existing code 13-03-06 still regulates areas where dogs are restricted or are only allowed seasonally. Dogs are not allowed in Platt Gardens, Simplot Sports Complex or Municipal Park. Dogs are restricted from Kathryn Albertson Park during nesting season, from March 1 through June 30. They are also not allowed in sports complexes during posted seasons.