Leash Laws

Dogs must be firmly held on a leash in all public places

• It is unlawful to tie or secure a dog to any object in most public places.
• Dogs left tied or unattended in the downtown core will be impounded regardless of the circumstance.

Public Place means: streets; parks; beaches; squares; boulevards; bridges; walkways; and any place where there is implied or expressed public invitation

Exceptions: Leash Optional Areas / private lands with permission / police and guide dogs

Leash Optional Areas (LOAs)

There are twelve LOAs in the City of Victoria where owners can lawfully exercise their dogs without a leash.  For specific details visit the City of Victoria's Paws in Parks page.

LOA Regulations

• Owners must maintain control over their dog(s) at all times while in Leash Optional Areas.
  • Don't let your dog jump on people or interfere with their activities
  • Don't let your dog dig holes or damage public property

• Dogs must be within the owner's vision and command at all times.
  • If you cannot see your dog - you don't have control.
  • If your dog does not respond to you (within three calls) - you don't have control.

• Dogs "in heat" are prohibited from Leash Optional Areas.

• Dogs declared "Dangerous" may not be unleashed or un-muzzled in any Leash Optional Area.

If your dog is unreliable off-leash, enroll yourself and your dog into a basic obedience training class. There are many affordable courses available at several local recreation centres.

If you wish to make your opinions known about dogs and parks please use the following email address: dogfeedback@victoria.ca