Dogs in Parks

New Animal Bylaws

Saanich’s new Animals Bylaw is now in place and this kicks off an education and transition period that will give Saanich staff and CRD enforcement officers time to inform park visitors about the coming changes.

During this transition period, people will begin to see updated signage in Saanich parks, and periodic updates posted to the Saanich website and on our social media channels.

The new bylaws are briefly outlined here [PDF - 115 KB] with full details here. [PDF - 8 MB] 

Have questions? Visit our FAQ page.

Learn more about the CRD's Petiquette Program, animal regulations, and general pet information.

Leash Optional Parks Map

Click on the image to expand


Click here to view a pdf version of the map. [PDF - 2 MB] 

On-Leash/No Dogs Allowed Parks Map

 

Click here to view a pdf version of the map [PDF - 1 MB]

 

People Pets and Parks – Spring 2026 Update:

Creating a more welcoming park experience for everyone

Funding Update:

On Tuesday, April 14, 2026, Council approved two separate funding allocations related to Pets in Parks.

The first funding allocation will support delivery of Saanich’s next priority projects identified in the People Pets and Parks strategy and allow progress on approved actions and on-the-ground improvements including:

  • Design and installation of the first permanent dog park, which will replace one of the pop-up dog parks – location to be confirmed.
  • Ongoing public education through special events, videos, signage and social media campaigns.
  • Continued operation of pop-up dog parks until permanent replacements are in place.
  • Updates and additions to signage across the park system as required.
  • Development of a permit system for commercial dog walkers

Through the 2025 budget process, Council had requested an estimate to complete full fencing of the lower leash optional trails at PKOLS which was also approved at this meeting.

This work will help to further define leash optional trail routes, protect sensitive areas, and support safe and sustainable park use. The current partial fencing project will be completed as per the current work plans. Parks staff are in the process of determining next steps and timing to carry out the work to complete the fencing.  The fence style will remain consistent with what is being installed.

 

Signage: Mostly Complete, With More to Come

Most of our new park signs are now installed across Saanich parks. These signs were designed to be clearer and more consistent so visitors can easily understand park guidelines and dog-related information.

Monitoring and community feedback have helped us identify areas where additional signs would be helpful. More signs will continue to be added throughout the year as we refine wayfinding and communication.

This includes:

  • Colour coded park entry signs
  • Map based dog information signs
  • Updated guideline reminders throughout parks

Leash Optional Area Designs are Complete

Design work for the first dedicated enclosed and partially enclosed leash optional areas is now finished.

Construction timelines

  • PKOLS (Mount Douglas Park): Construction is underway and expected to be completed by the end of April 2026.
  • Cuthbert Holmes Park: Construction is planned for later this year, pending approval from the Ministry of Transportation and Transit.

Pop-Up Dog Parks are Back! April - October

While we work toward permanent parks for pups over the next few years, be sure to check out our three pop-up dog parks for this season. Find more information here.

Commercial Dog Walking Permits

Research and preliminary discussions about the future commercial dog walking permit system have started.

This early work will help us better understand needs, impacts, and options as we explore how a permit program could support safe and responsible dog walking services in Saanich parks.

More updates will be shared as this work progresses.

Expanded Public Education

We are continuing to invest in helping everyone enjoy parks respectfully and safely. Upcoming efforts include:

  • A new animated educational video focused on dog etiquette and regulations in Saanich
  • Additional online resources and information
  • More public outreach throughout the year – See you at Strawberry and Cadboro Bay Festivals, and at the Naturalist Pop-up education booths.
  • A new Saanich bylaw officer to patrol parks and assist in the education of dog regulations in Saanich.

Need Info on Dog Rules?

We’ve updated every “Find a Park” page with the latest dog info to help you get out and enjoy our parks responsibly.
➡️ Visit saanich.ca/find-a-park or email us at parks@saanich.ca with your questions.

Thank you for helping make our parks safe and welcoming for all.