New Westminster dog leash rules and off-leash areas

Where can dogs be off leash, and what are the leash rules?

New Westminster, British ColumbiaChecked against official textSources read 2026-11-05

How it works

Under the Animal Care and Control Bylaw 7586, whenever a dog is off its owner's property it must be on a collar and leash and under control, except in a designated off-leash area. "Under control" means the dog returns immediately when called and shows no aggressive behaviour. In parks, dogs may enter only on a leash held by the owner (see the Parks Regulation Bylaw 3646). The bylaw sets no maximum leash length for ordinary dogs. Aggressive, vicious and dangerous dogs must be on a leash of 1 metre or less off the owner's property.

Off-leash area rules

1. Off-leash use is allowed within the fenced area only, and the dog must be with and under the control of its owner.
2. Carry a leash and keep your dog in view.
3. Vicious dogs are not allowed in the fenced area. Aggressive dogs must be muzzled, and any dog showing aggressive behaviour must be removed.
4. A female dog in heat must be kept out of off-leash areas.
5. Pick up after your dog and fill any holes it digs.
6. No smoking in or within 15 metres of the fenced area.

Good to know

• The City lists nine off-leash areas: Hume Park, Moody Park, Quayside, Queensborough, Queen's Park, Simcoe Park, Victoria Hill, Westburnco and West Side. Moody Park and Queen's Park have a gate for small or shy dogs, who have priority.
• Away from your property, carry a suitable means to remove dog feces, and remove it right away.
• Obey posted signs in public places. The bylaw names no banned places, and we found no dog ban for beaches, playgrounds or sports fields.
• Dog off leash or at large: a bylaw notice is $250 ($150 if paid within 14 days); a municipal ticket is $1,000. Dog not under control in an off-leash area: a bylaw notice is $100; a municipal ticket is $500.