Boise to Reopen Off-Leash Dog Parks This November

Seasonal off-leash hours for dogs will return to three city parks starting in November.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Dogs

Boise to Reopen Off-Leash Dog Parks This November

Live Poll

Do you support expanding seasonal off-leash dog access in your local public parks?

Boise Parks and Recreation will reinstate seasonal off-leash dog hours at three city parks beginning November 1, 2026. This program provides designated spaces for dogs to exercise without a leash through the end of February 2027.

Why it matters

The initiative offers dog owners additional outdoor space for pet exercise during the winter months when high-traffic areas are less congested. This seasonal access allows for the managed use of public sports fields when they are not in peak athletic use.

The program covers three parks, including Ann Morrison Park, Optimist Youth Sports Complex, and Simplot Sports Complex. Designated off-leash hours are limited to sunrise to sunset in specifically marked areas.

The players

Boise Parks and Recreation

This is the city department responsible for the management and maintenance of parks, recreational facilities, and public programming in Boise.

The details

Owners must keep dogs leashed on Boise River Greenbelt paths, parking lots, roads, and playgrounds at all times. The program mandates that off-leash activities be confined strictly to designated zones within the three participating complexes.

The program begins at Ann Morrison Park and Optimist Youth Sports Complex on November 1, 2026.
Off-leash access begins at Simplot Sports Complex on November 16, 2026.
All off-leash seasonal permissions conclude on February 28, 2027.

Culture Shift

This program aligns with the Boise Parks and Recreation seasonal winter facility management policy. It reflects a shift toward prioritizing dual-use community spaces during the off-peak season to accommodate local pet owners.

Residents should ensure their dogs remain leashed when accessing the Boise River Greenbelt or navigating parking lots at these facilities. Owners should adhere to the sunrise-to-sunset window to avoid potential ordinance violations in public spaces.

The takeaway

Dog owners can utilize these designated areas to keep pets active during the colder winter months. It is important to stay updated on which specific zones are off-limits to ensure continued access for the whole community.