Dog Parks Update
November 2007
Planned Improvements
Greg Levine of Trees Atlanta has recommended trees for the wet area at the Oakhurst dog park: five bald cypresses, a Virginia magnolia and an overcup oak. The city plans to purchase these trees through the
tree bank program. Tree planting will be scheduled during the winter months and only if watering
restrictions are lifted.
The double gate will be improved to prevent small dogs from exiting the park under the gate. A watering station is budgeted for the Adair Park dog park.
Issues for All Parks
Toys and bowls left in the park create a hazard to city workers mowing the parks. A large storage bin has been placed at the entrance to each dog park for water bowls and toys. Patrons can store these items in the bin between visits. Any toys or bowls left on the grounds will be disposed of by city workers when they empty trash and mow the grass.
Decatur Dog Parks
Notice of Changes and Enforcement of Ordinances
May 2006 – Decatur Dog Parks Become Resident-Only Facilities with Permits Required
>Dog Park Meeting Report
The popularity of Decatur’s dog parks, not only with Decatur citizens, but with dog owners from surrounding areas, has resulted in overuse and the need for regulatory changes. In an attempt to prioritize citizen use and provide a quality environment for City of Decatur dog owners and their pets, new regulations have become necessary:
Decatur dog parks are “resident only/permit required” facilities as of May 2006. Permits are available to City of Decatur residents at the Decatur Recreation Center and Glenlake Tennis Center.
Decatur Recreation Center:
Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Glenlake Tennis Center:
Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and 4 p.m.-9 p.m.;
Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Permit Information
To secure a permit, residents must provide proof of residency in the form of a tax bill, rent receipt or utility bill and proof of rabies vaccination for each dog. Property owners who are not residents must present a tax bill and proof of rabies vaccination. Citizens will receive a numbered tag for each dog. Tags should be attached to the dog’s collar. It will identify the dog as having a permit for enforcement purposes.
Citations
Beginning May 8, citations will be issued to persons entering the park without a permit, or who allow their pets on city athletic fields without department permission, or who are in any other violation of Decatur City Codes 14 and 70.
Information for Nonresidents
For nonresidents who are currently using Decatur dog parks, information will be provided regarding other dog parks in the area. The Recreation Department will also share information about Decatur’s dog parks that may help facilitate the development of dog parks in other communities.
Email List
Residents who would like to be included on the Decatur dog park email list and would like to assist in the continuing improvement of Decatur’s dog parks should contact Mary Miller: mmiller@decaturga.com.
Next Evaluation
Dog parks will be evaluated in September to determine if permits have regulated overuse enough to allow the city to issue permits to nonresidents at a fee.
For more information, see Dog Park Meeting Report.