Miami may be going to the dogs – in dog parks

Miami is working on a citywide dog park master plan to ensure residents and their canine companions have clean and safe spaces to play.

The city commission last week heard the first reading of a resolution to create a comprehensive guide for the future development of dog parks.

Commissioners unanimously approved the master plan, which prioritizes the safety, accessibility and sustainability of dog parks across Miami.

While crafting the city’s Parks and Public Spaces Master Plan in 2006, a household survey by Miami’s parks and recreation and planning departments revealed 80% of respondents felt the four existing off-leash dog parks didn’t meet their needs. The survey also found dog parks could be better maintained, especially those that are highly frequented like Blanche Park in Coconut Grove.

The master plan, adopted in 2007, made design recommendations to improve the cleanliness and safety of dog parks but stopped short of establishing legal requirements. It advised they be placed away from high-intensity and high-value areas, like sports facilities and waterfront parks, and instead be in grassy areas with adequate drainage. It also recommended dog parks be surrounded by four to six feet of fencing and provide cleaning supplies, shade and water for residents and their pets.

The new guidelines, sponsored by Commissioners Sabina Covo and Manolo Reyes, would establish the city’s official Dog Parks Master Plan. Provisions stipulate a park’s location must prioritize accessibility, drainage, ecology and safety.

Planning considerations would be made to ensure ample drainage on site to prevent water accumulation and that nearby parking facilities are equipped to accommodate visitors. Additionally, dog parks could not be near natural areas where flora and fauna, such as ground-nesting birds, small mammals and native plants, may be disturbed.

Another key component is the availability of cleaning supplies. The plan requires that dog parks be equipped with sufficient cleaning supplies, including garbage cans and dog waste bags, to facilitate the proper disposal of trash and maintain cleanliness.

The master plan also prioritizes separate areas for small and large dogs, where space allows. Small dogs are categorized as weighing under 25 pounds and canines over that limit are considered large. Per the legislation, this segregation aims to provide a safe and comfortable environment for dogs of different sizes to interact and play.

Dog water fountains are required within a park to provide a convenient water source for dogs to stay hydrated and play equipment may be installed to enhance the experience and promote physical activity.

Lastly, following the city’s 2007 parks master plan and recommendations for fencing, the new guidelines allow for a perimeter fence up to 5 feet high with a double-door feature at the front to prevent dogs from escaping when entering or exiting the park.

The Dog Parks Master Plan is to be incorporated into the next update to the City of Miami’s Parks and Public Spaces Master Plan. Background documents on the legislation state the city recognizes the importance of providing safe and enjoyable spaces for Miamians and their canine companions to exercise and socialize. The resolution will have to be heard by the city commission once more before it is official.