Partially-fenced off-leash areas:
Point Defiance Park Designated Off-Leash Area
5400 N. Pearl St.
Approximately 7 acres located along Five Mile Drive south of Fort Nisqually. The roadway and waterfront bluff area are fenced as well as about 1/8 acre area for smaller dogs.
There are 3-4 parking spots in front of the off-leash area entry gates. You can also park at the Fort Nisqually picnic area and walk along the road to the south or park on Mildred Street and walk down the utility road to the west until you see the off-leash area sign.
Fully fenced dog parks:
Rogers Off-Leash Dog Park, 3151 East L St.
Approximately 1.5 acres, this fully fenced off-leash area features a drinking fountain, bench and shelter
Wapato Park Off-Leash Dog Park
6802 S. Sheridan Ave.
Wapato features three fully fenced areas for pets to romp leash free with their owners – including one reserved just for small dogs. Benches and shelters are provided on-site.
Dog park etiquette:
* Keep your dog from jumping on or interfering with other people and their dogs.
* Off-leash does not mean out of control. Aggressive dogs must be removed immediately.
* Guests must remain with their pets, keeping them within view and under verbal control to remain within the signed boundary markers at all times.
* Dogs must have up-to-date vaccinations and dog license.
* Females in heat are not allowed in the park.
* Pick up and properly dispose of your dog’s waste. It’s the law.
* Have your dog on a leash when entering and leaving the park. Dogs are required by the Tacoma Municipal Code to be leashed in parks, except in designated off-leash areas.
* Make sure that only one gate is open at a time.
* No wheeled items, i.e. strollers, wagons, wheelbarrows, bicycles, etc.
* Children must be supervised by a parent or guardian.
* Act responsibly. Use the park at your own risk.
Additional Information:
You Cannot Bring a dog or cat to: (service animals are allowed)
* Any of our athletic complexes – SERA, Heidelberg or Peck Field.
* Point Defiance Zoo
* Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
* Tacoma Nature Center
All dogs are required to be on a leash no longer than eight feet or confined to their owner’s property at all times. The only exception provided for in the leash law ordinance is if the dog is in a designated off-leash area. Dogs roaming free are in violation of the leash law ordinance. Dogs are not allowed at the locations listed above, even if on a leash. They may be seized or impounded by City of Tacoma Animal Care & Control officers. Owners of dogs running loose may receive a summons and/or a fine. To report a dog running loose or for more information about the leash law, call (253) 627-PETS (7387). There is no leash law for cats.
Scoop that Poop – You may take walks with your pet. Along the way your pet might “doo” a little something on the sidewalk. Make sure to scoop up the poop and dispose of it in the garbage (in a plastic bag) or flush it down the toilet. No matter how big or small the deposit, you can bank on the fact that it will pollute our waters. Pet waste has harmful bacteria in it that contributes to water quality problems, possibly in your neighborhood. With all the pets it adds up, so do your part to clean it up.
Municipal Code – Conduct in all public parks is subject to general police regulations of the City of Tacoma and provisions of Tacoma’s Municipal Code, City Ordinance, Park Code Chapter 8.27.
Helpful contacts:
Animal Care & Control, 627-PETS (7387) or 911
– animal bites
– aggressive animals
– injured or sick animals
– found animals
– animal cruelty or welfare
– stray animal pick-up
– other services requiring a timely response
Humane Society, 253-383-2733
– shelter for local animals
– Metro Parks
