Leash rules vary across New Albany—know where your dog must be leashed, and always clean up after your pet to protect our parks and waterways.
If you own a dog in New Albany, please remember that your dog must be under your control at all times. A dog is considered under control when it listens well to voice or hand signals—or both—and doesn’t run up to, chase, or hurt people or other animals, and doesn’t cause any injuries or damage when it’s off leash.
Dogs on Leisure Trails and Sidewalks
The easiest way to ensure your dog is under control is to use a leash while on trails and sidewalks throughout the City of New Albany. While leashes are not required on City-owned trails and sidewalks, they are strongly recommended, as you may be cited if your dog is not under control.
Please note: Dogs must be leashed at all times in New Albany Parks and Recreation District spaces—including Bevelhymer Park, Thompson Park, and Wexner Community Park—which are separate from City-managed areas.
If you want to exercise your dog off leash, a great option is to head to Rocky Fork Metro Park where there’s a nearly 2-acre dog park and off-leash trail for dogs.
Dogs at City of New Albany Parks
When it comes to City-owned parks such as Rose Run Park, Taylor Farm Park, and our City-owned neighborhood parks, dogs must be either controlled at all times, restrained by a leash no more than six (6) feet in length, or suitably caged, except where permission has been obtained in advance by the city manager.
Importance of Cleaning Up Dog Waste
Don’t forget that if your dog does its business in one of our parks or while you are out on a walk, it is important to be a good neighbor and clean up afterwards. You can be cited for not picking up after your pet.
Believe it or not, how you handle pet waste affects New Albany’s water quality. During rain events, dog poop left on the ground can wash away through the sewer systems and end up in our lakes and rivers, polluting our freshwater supply. The water that goes through these storm sewer systems is not treated, so what goes into a drain exits straight into our waterways. Research shows that dog waste is the third largest contributor of harmful bacteria to urban waterways. Do your part and pick up poop – always be prepared with bags when walking your pup and dispose of them in the trash.
Dogs at New Albany Parks and Recreation Locations
Bevelhymer Park, Thompson Park, and Wexner Community Park are under the jurisdiction of New Albany Parks and Recreation. Domestic dogs or cats are permitted in these parks except in areas where and when they are prohibited as determined by the New Albany Parks and Recreation director. Pets must be restrained by a leash no more than six (6) feet in length or suitably caged at all times. Notice of such prohibitions will appear on clearly marked and visible posted signs in the parks.
We appreciate the cooperation of all New Albany dog owners as we work together to foster a safe and enjoyable community for everyone.
