Dogs are allowed, and welcome, in Central Park. They must be leashed in most areas of the Park (where signs are posted) between the hours of 9am and 9pm. Dogs are not allowed in playgrounds, display fountains, bodies of water reserved for wildlife, ballfields, the Elm Islands at the Mall, Sheep Meadow, East Green, Lilac Walk, Reservoir Running Track or Strawberry Fields.They must be under the control of their owner at all times.They must have a NYC license tag and valid rabies tag. Dogs may not dig, chase or harm wildlife, damage Park property, or interfere with other Park users.Always clean up after your dog, including dog hair that you brush off in the Park. Please respect signs, fences, and red flags that may indicate temporary closures due to restoration, maintenance, or weather conditions.
Dogs are allowed off-leash when the Park is open from 6:00 am to 9:00 am and from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am when the Park closes. Dogs must be on-leash at all times from 9:00 am until 9:00 pm. Learn more about supporting Central Park's dog community and Central Park Paws.