Boise Parks to Allow Seasonal Off-Leash Dog Hours

Owners can let dogs off-leash in designated areas at three city parks starting this November.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Dogs

Screen-print poster illustration of a dog running through a grassy park with autumn leaves, evoking local seasonal outdoor recreation. — Boise Parks and Recreation will allow seasonal off-leash dog hours at three city parks, including Ann Morrison Park, beginning this November. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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

Boise Parks and Recreation is reinstating seasonal off-leash hours for dogs at three local sports and recreation hubs. Beginning in November 2026, owners can let their pets run in designated areas at Ann Morrison Park, Optimist Youth Sports Complex, and Simplot Sports Complex.

Why it matters

This seasonal program provides residents with specific, regulated spaces for off-leash exercise during the cooler months. It balances recreational needs for local pet owners with the operational requirements of these multi-use sports facilities.

The program covers 3 city parks, with availability running from November 2026 through February 28, 2027. Designated off-leash use is permitted only during daylight hours from sunrise to sunset.

The players

Boise Parks and Recreation

The municipal department responsible for maintaining city green spaces, managing public park access, and enforcing pet-related regulations.

The details

Off-leash access is restricted to specific designated zones within Ann Morrison Park, the Optimist Youth Sports Complex, and the Simplot Sports Complex. Visitors must keep dogs on a leash at all times while on Boise River Greenbelt paths, parking lots, roads, and playgrounds. This policy ensures that high-traffic areas and sports fields remain safe for all park users throughout the winter months.

November 1, 2026: Program begins at Ann Morrison Park and Optimist Youth Sports Complex.
November 16, 2026: Program begins at Simplot Sports Complex.
February 28, 2027: Program concludes at all three locations.

The Home Front

This initiative follows the established regulatory framework for Boise municipal park pet ordinances regarding off-leash access. It marks a temporary shift in local land-use management that prioritizes winter-season utility for pet owners.

Pet owners should review the specific park maps provided by the city to identify the exact boundaries of designated off-leash zones before visiting. Always carry a leash, as all other park areas including the Greenbelt and playgrounds remain under standard leashing requirements.

The takeaway

Boise pet owners can utilize three specific parks for off-leash activity through February 2027. Remember that off-leash access is restricted to sunrise-to-sunset hours and only within clearly marked areas of each complex.