A. It is unlawful to bring, harbor or be in control of any domestic animal including dogs or cats, exotic animals or farm animals to be upon the premises of any park or playing field, including such animals on a leash, except for animals trained and used as service animals.
B. Special exceptions to this the prohibitions listed in this section may be allowed in the form of specially designated and/or signed parks, which includes the designation of a park as "Dog-friendly", or organized animal shows or competitions sanctioned by a bona fide breeders' or owners' association which has been granted permission for such event or show by the mayor or parks department when the use or activity is of general community benefit or of particular benefit to the city.
C. If a park is designated as "Dog-friendly" it shall mean that leashed and controlled dogs are allowed within that designated park, except for in playground or playfield areas, or at sporting events or organized city events. All dogs shall be cleaned up after by their owner/responsible party, who will be liable for any expense of damage or abandoned excrement caused by the dog in their care. The city animal control officer or designee may require that any dog on a leash leave a park and not return if, in the animal control officer's (or designee's) sole opinion, said dog is a danger to the public health, safety, and/or welfare, and/or is causing a disturbance that negatively affects the public's use and enjoyment of the park. The addition or removal of a "Dog-friendly" park designation shall be approved by the parks and recreation commission. The parks and recreation director has the authority to suspend a park's "Dog-friendly" designation only on a temporary basis, not exceeding three (3) months, if the circumstances for said suspension deem it necessary for the health, safety, and welfare of the public.
D. The city may from time to time create "dog parks", which shall be utilized in accordance with the regulations and rules posted at such "dog park". (Ord. 619, 4-12-2023)