San Francisco Health Code Article 1 requires dogs to be leashed in public spaces, with limited off-leash zones designated by Recreation and Parks Department in specific parks like Fort Funston and Crissy Field.
Per SF Health Code Section 41.12, dogs must be on a leash no longer than eight feet when off the owner's property. Animal Care and Control (ACC) enforces leash rules citywide. Off-leash play is permitted only in designated dog play areas (DPAs) listed by SF Rec & Park, including Alamo Square, Buena Vista Park, and parts of Golden Gate Park. Dogs must remain under voice control even in DPAs. Federal GGNRA lands have separate, stricter NPS rules. Violations fall under Health Code enforcement and ACC citation authority.
Off-leash dogs outside designated areas, leashes exceeding eight feet, and aggressive unleashed dogs trigger citations from Animal Care and Control officers and SFPD.
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