Carlsbad may soon join the majority of San Diego County cities in allowing leashed dogs in public parks, a shift that could make it easier for pet owners to enjoy the city’s green spaces with their furry companions.
For years, Carlsbad’s parks and beaches have been largely off-limits to dogs, with exceptions only for service animals and certain authorized activities. However, during a recent city council meeting, officials revisited the possibility of relaxing these restrictions.
Kyle Lancaster, Carlsbad’s Parks & Recreation Department director, pointed out that most cities in San Diego County permit leashed dogs in public parks, with the notable exceptions of Coronado and Escondido. Despite current regulations, Carlsbad residents are often seen walking their dogs in city parks, according to Assistant Police Chief Reid Shipley, who described it as a “daily occurrence.”
Currently, Carlsbad has three designated dog parks and allows leashed dogs on the upper seawall walkway above the beach, though they are banned from the lower pedestrian-only walkway. Other city parks remain dog-free, with the exception of private parks in apartment complexes where pets are allowed.
This is not the first time the city has considered changing its stance. Three years ago, city officials estimated that updating the municipal code to allow dogs in more parks would cost around $50,000 for signage and dog waste stations, with ongoing maintenance costs of around $250,000 annually. These additional expenses were a significant factor in the decision to postpone the policy change at that time.
During the March 18 meeting, Mayor Keith Blackburn expressed tentative support for the change, despite concerns from some residents. “I’ve heard moms say, ‘I don’t want my kids playing in a lawn area of the park and then have to deal with dog poop,'” Blackburn acknowledged. “But on the other side, I’ve had a lot of people say, ‘Look at how many people have dogs. We’d like to be able to take them with us when we go walk through the park.'”
Blackburn emphasized that if the policy were to be implemented, leashed dogs would be kept away from playgrounds, sports fields, and other organized program areas, with owners expected to clean up after their pets.
While Carlsbad’s beaches would likely remain off-limits due to state ownership, the proposed changes could still mark a significant shift for local dog owners. However, costs may once again delay the decision. Mayor Pro Tem Priya Bhat-Patel and Councilman Kevin Shin urged staff to update cost estimates before a final vote takes place.
Bhat-Patel, a dog owner herself, acknowledged that many residents desire the change, but noted that it might not be an urgent need for the city.
And in case there was any confusion, Assistant Chief Shipley clarified that dogs in strollers are still considered dogs in the park.
Related topics:
Rare Albino Doberman Captivates Viewers with Ghostly Appearance
Boston Man Injured in Dog Attack at South End Park
Penticton’s Dug the Police Dog Featured by Provincial RCMP
