Dog Park Rules & Etiquette

Off Leash Dog Areas (OLDAs) in Fairfax County share the same rules, enforced by the sponsoring group responsible for each OLDA. Below are the rules, followed by etiquette that further enhances the safety of dog parks and their acceptance by the community at large.

Warning: Violating posted rules can result in trespassing charges filed by the Fairfax County Park Authority. RestonDogs volunteers who participate in the Park Monitor Program have the authority to report violators to the police and press trespassing charges!

Click here to review the Fairfax County Park Authority regulations

These are the rules per the Fairfax County Park Authority for use of Off Leash Dog Areas at county parks. Please be familiar with the rules, which will also be posted at the park.

1. The Off-Leash Dog Area is for dogs , their handlers and those accompanying them. No other use is allowed.
2. All dogs must be legally licensed and vaccinated, and shall wear a visible dog license
3. No dogs under four months of age
4. No female dogs in heat
5. Dogs must be on leash when entering or exiting the off-leash dog area
6. Dogs must be under the control of their handler and in view of their handler at all times
7. No spiked collars
8. Children 8 and under are not allowed in the off-leash dog area
9. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult
10. Handlers must be 16 years of age or older
11. Handlers must have possession of the dog leash at all times
12. Maximum of two dogs per handler
13. Handlers must "Scoop The Poop"
14. Handlers must fill all holes dug up by the dog(s) under their control
15. No food and no drinks in glass containers - training treats are allowed
16. Dogs must be removed from the off-leash dog area at the first sign of aggression
17. No animals other than dogs shall be permitted in the area
18. Handlers are responsible for any injuries caused by the dog(s) under their control
19. Users of this facility do so at their own risk. Neither the County nor the FCPA shall be liable for any injury or damage caused by any dog in the Off Leash Area.

click here to learn about our small dog area

Dog Park Etiquette

• Do not hang anything on the fence - this keeps the often crowded dog park looking clean and extends fence life.
• Minimize barking!
• Dog barking uncontrollably anger surrounding neighbors and incite other dogs to bark.
• Please remove dogs from the dog park who are unable to control their barking.
• Remove dogs who play too rough.
• If your dog's play is making other dog owners uncomfortable, go to another area of the dog park or perhaps return another time.
• Water is generally available from mid March to late October.
• Bring plenty of water for your dog during the winter months!
• Help enforce the rules - do not rely on others to help us keep the dog parks safe & clean.

Collar and Leash Information

Every dog entering the OLDA must wear a collar! The collar may not be pronged or spiked; this is for the safety of all dogs. Spiked collars (inward or outward) are easily hooked with other dog's collars during play and can lead to serious injury. If your dog normally wears a spiked collar, please be sure to bring a regular collar (with the current dog license attached) for OLDA play.

Hanlders must have, in their possession, a leash for the dog(s) under their control (in your hand or on your body). This ensures that in the event of a problem, dogs can be quickly and safely restrained.