Boulder City Enacts New Leash Law, Adds Off-Leash Zones | The Locally Times
Ordinance 1872, effective Dec. 4, mandates leashes in most public areas while creating new off-leash zones, including 4.5 acres at Veterans Memorial Park.
Boulder City implemented new dog ownership regulations, codified as Ordinance 1872, which took effect on December 4, 2025. According to a news flash posted by the city on December 3, 2025, the ordinance is the result of a public process that began in 2023. The city notice states the changes followed extensive public discussion and incorporated community input, which city records do not quantify. A statement from the city manager referenced in the document explains the new rules seek to balance safety in parks and public areas while providing off-leash opportunities in designated spaces. ## Leash Mandates and Prohibited Areas The central provision of Ordinance 1872 requires dogs to be on a leash in all public areas, unless within a space specifically designated by the City Council as an off-leash zone. The ordinance also explicitly prohibits dogs from several locations to protect wildlife and maintain specific-use facilities. The city’s announcement highlights the creation of two fenced dog parks at Veterans Memorial Park, offering a combined total of nearly 4.5 acres. These parks are equipped with water, shade, seating, and trails. Additional designated off-leash areas include: - North Escalante Park, located near City Hall. - Linear Park, situated along the drainage channel north of Boulder City Parkway between Ville Drive and Lake Mountain Drive. - Other designated outlying Desert Areas. In these zones, dogs must remain under voice command and within the eyesight of a person 18 years or older. The supervising person is also responsible for cleaning up any animal waste. ## Wilbur Square: Special Hours and Temporary Closure Wilbur Square received a unique designation, permitting off-leash dogs only during specific hours: from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Users of Wilbur Square should also note a planned temporary closure. The city announcement states the square is scheduled to be closed for irrigation repairs for three months, from January 2026 through March 2026. During this period, the off-leash hours will not be in effect.