Dane County Parks

Dogs in Parks

We welcome dogs in the Dane County Park System at our off-leash dog parks and throughout the Dane County Park System. A dog permit is required for all dogs, including service animals. Please note that campsite reservations in a campground include a complimentary daily dog permit good for the duration of the stay. A complimentary dog permit is not included in group camp reservations. Owners/handlers are responsible for the actions of their dog and are liable under Wisconsin State Statute 174.02 (1) for injuries caused by their dog.

Purchase a Dog Permit Dog Park Rules Frequently Asked Questions

1. Dane County Dog Parks

Dane County Parks is a national leader in the development of off-leash dog parks. We now have seven off-leash dog parks, totaling 229 acres, each with its own unique features and terrain. A permit is required in order to bring your dog to a dog park within the Cooperative Dog Park Program which includes: Dane County Parks, City of Madison Parks, City of Sun Prairie Parks and City of Middleton Parks. You must have a dog license from your municipality to purchase a Dane County Dog Permit. An Annual Dog Park Cleanup is held on the 1st Saturday in April each year.

Credit Steve Dalhlgren - Dog Grin Photography

Steve Dahlgren (Dog Grin Photography)

Visit a Dane County Dog Park:

2. Dane County Park System

A dog permit also allows you to access all Dane County Park System lands for on-leash hikes with your pup with the following requirements and exceptions:

Dogs must have a valid dog permit.
Dogs must be leashed and restrained by a 6-foot static leash. E-Collars are not allowed as leash alternatives in Dane County Parks and park users may be fined $169.00 for having their dog off-leash if not in an off-leash dog park.
Dogs are not allowed in designated beach areas at Goodland, Mendota, or Stewart Lake County Parks.
Dogs are not allowed on groomed cross-country ski or snowmobile trails.
Dogs are not allowed on the boardwalk portion of the Lower Yahara River Trail.
During hunting season (on select properties) you and your dog should wear blaze orange. Visit our Park Use During Hunting Season webpage for more information.

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3. Dane County Wildlife Areas

Dogs are welcome in Dane County Wildlife Areas with the following requirements:

Dogs must have a valid dog permit, unless they are hunting during a designated Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Department (WDNR) hunting season.
Dogs may be off-leash in a wildlife area if being used for hunting.
If not being used for hunting, dogs must be leashed and restrained by a 6-foot static leash.
During hunting season you and your dog should wear blaze orange. Visit our Park Use During Hunting Season webpage for more information.

Find a Wildlife Area