Off-Leash Area Enhancement Program

The City’s Off-Leash Area Enhancement Program improves off-leash areas to make them safer, more functional, enjoyable and accessible for people and dogs. With more than 80 off-leash areas across Toronto – each with its own design, size and age – the program focuses on extending their lifespan through critical repairs, accessibility upgrades, environmental protection and safety improvements. Each year, six to eight off-leash areas are enhanced to align with Toronto’s Dogs Off-Leash Strategy.

In 2024, the City conducted a comprehensive review of all off-leash areas to assess their condition and identify opportunities for improvement. This review considered factors such as worn or damaged ground surfaces, missing or broken fencing, drainage issues, and safety and accessibility concerns. The findings helped shape the primary focus of the Off-Leash Area Enhancement Program. To keep this information current, the City will reassess all off-leash areas every five years to ensure future upgrades reflect their current conditions.

Each off-leash area is unique. There is no single design that works for every site. Improvements are informed by site-specific factors such as adjacent land uses (e.g., residential areas, playgrounds, splash pads, schools etc.), existing conditions like mature trees, topography, drainage and underground utilities, as well as maintenance access and regulatory considerations. Community profile and feedback also play an important role in shaping the right design for each location.

Off-leash area improvements will focus on the following.

  • Accessibility: Add internal accessible pathway to support circulation for all users.
  • Infrastructure: Repair damaged gates and fences.
  • Security: Install fencing where feasible and appropriate, and add self-closing devices for entry gates.
  • Surfacing: Replace gravel surfaces with dog-friendly options such as grass, engineered wood chips and/or K-9 turf, depending on size, site conditions and budget.

Off-leash areas located near ravines or within Environmentally Significant Areas require extra care to protect the surrounding environment. In these cases, the City will:

  • Use specialized contractors trained to work in challenging conditions, such as steep slopes or areas that are difficult to access with regular equipment.
  • Work with local conservation authorities to minimize impacts on plants, animals and ecosystems.
  • Prioritize upgrades only when necessary, especially where there is a risk of ongoing environmental damage.

For example, in 2024, the City began a multi-year project in High Park to replace nearly two kilometres of fencing, helping protect sensitive natural areas while maintaining safe access for dogs and their owners.

Project Timelines

The typical off-leash area improvement project is completed within a two-year timeline:

  • Year one: Site analysis, design and community engagement
  • Year two: Hire a contractor and complete construction

Off-leash areas are evaluated and considered for improvement based on the following factors:

  1. Physical condition: The state of the surfacing, fencing, gate latches and locks, and overall accessibility.
  2. Intensity of use: How many people and dogs visit the off-leash area relative to its size.

Using these factors, the City will create a priority list of off-leash areas in need of improvements. This list will then be incorporated into the 10-year program plan, which aligns with City’s 10-year Capital Budget Plan.

At the start of an off-leash area enhancement project, signs are posted on-site to inform the community about the upcoming improvements and direct residents to a dedicated project webpage. The project webpage will provide information about the site, including the project timeline and an option to subscribe for updates.

If the project includes new features, an expansion, a relocation or changes to how the space is used, the community will have an opportunity to provide input. Projects that are limited to repairs or maintenance do not include community engagement, as they do not alter the existing use of the space and are guided by site conditions, environmental impacts and budget constraints.