Owners who let their dogs roam free in city parks in Pasadena, Calif., could face a fine of up to $500.
After getting several community complaints, the city of Pasadena, about 10 miles northeast of Los Angeles, announced it would start enforcing a city code starting Feb. 22 that prohibits off-leash dogs in parks.
“Our focus is to ensure that public spaces remain safe for all park visitors,” said Pasadena Public Health Department Deputy Director Manuel Carmona. “Because ongoing efforts to educate park visitors about leash requirements have not been effective, we are transitioning to stricter enforcement to protect the public.”
The leash law applies to all city parks except Alice’s Dog Park in Viña Vieja Park and Playhouse Village Dog Park, which are designated off-leash areas.
A nonprofit has been granted the authority to enforce the law and issue citations, according to the city.
Pasadena Humane, a donor-supported group that provides animal care and services for homeless people and others, will enforce leash requirements, and continue to provide the community with education on dog leashing.
The city has contracted with the organization since 1904 to deliver animal services, including operation of the city pound, according to Mr. Carmona.
“We have nearly 120 years of history working together,” Mr. Carmona told California Insider.
Pasadena renewed an $8.5 million, five-year contract with the nonprofit in 2021 to provide animal control services and issue citations for unleashed dogs and other violations. The group also contracts with 10 other cities and neighborhoods in Los Angeles County.
