We, the undersigned, support clarifying amendments to the Department of Parks and Recreation (DOPR) regulations so that the City’s 20-year old successful off-leash policy, which allows responsible dog owners to exercise and socialize their dogs during limited hours and in designated locations in City parks, can be strengthened.

WHEREAS, On November 30, 2006, NYS Supreme Court Judge Peter J. Kelly, In the Matter of the Application of JUNIPER PARK CIVIC ASSOCIATION, INC. v. THE CITY OF NEW YORK, ADRIAN BENEPE, COMMISSIONER OF THE NYC DOPR, ruled in favor of the City and the Parks Commissioner; and

WHEREAS, Judge Kelly expressed hope that the DOPR would “formalize the details of the current off-leash policy within the Park Rules�; and

WHEREAS, On December 5, 2006, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOMH) adopted amendments to Article 161.05 (the “Leash Law�), which call upon the Parks Department to adopt rules promoting awareness of dog vaccination and licensure requirements, and the specific locations where, and limited times when, dogs may be off-leash; and

WHEREAS, The amendments to Article 161.05 permit the Health Department to suspend off-leash activity in a particular area in the event of a statistically verifiable outbreak of rabies, or a preventable spike in dog-related bites that occur in that particular area during the off-leash hours, providing a reasonable and fair provision that is good for the City and all its park users;

THEREFORE, We respectfully urge the DOPR to adopt amendments to their own regulations to strengthen responsible dog ownership, comply with the Judge’s decision, comport with the DOMH amendments to Article 161.05, and continue to make parks safe and enjoyable for all City residents.