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Dog Parks and DFA Tags

Chicago Dog Parks, DFA (Dog-Friendly Area) Tags and Dog Park Rules 

The following is a partial list of Chicago DFA parks with addresses and specific details. Make sure that your dog has a DFA permit, that you follow all guidelines and that they are current on all their vaccinations.

South Loop’s Dog-Friendly Area Parks:

dog friendly parks chicago

Click here for a listing of all Chicago Dog Friendly Areas.

Chicago Dog Friendly Area (DFA) Tags, Permits and Parks

If you’re planning on taking your dog to a Chicago Dog Park or Dog Friendly Beach, make sure they are wearing a Chicago Dog Friendly Area (DFA) tag. These tags verify that your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date and that they had a recent negative fecal test. If your dog isn’t sporting one of these tags and is using one of Chicago’s Dog Friendly Areas, you could be subject to a $500 fine.

Metropolitan Veterinary Center can issue a DFA permit and tag upon receipt of the following:

  • A current dog license issued by the City of Chicago, or proof that the dog has a current rabies vaccination
  • Examination within the past year for any communicable diseases including an examination of a stool specimen for internal parasites.
  • Current vaccination or titer if possible for Distemper, Hepatitis, Para-influenza, Parvovirus, and Bordatella (kennel cough) unless an exemption to this requirement has been granted by the Administrator upon the written recommendation from the Owner’s veterinarian.

Permits and DFA tags are available for your convenience at Metro Vet.

After issuance of a permit, it is up to the dog owner to keep immunizations and records up-to-date. The dog owners must also agree to abide by the Chicago Park District Rules and Regulations of a Dog Friendly Area.

The Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control will enforce DFA rules and regulations and issue tickets to violators. Dogs at the park without a permit and tag are subject to a $500 fine. 

Dog Friendly Area Rules and Regulations:

  • Owners are legally responsible for their dogs and any injuries caused by their dogs.
  • Owners must remain with and watch their dogs at all times.
  • Dogs must be leashed prior to and upon leaving the DFA. Gates to the DFAs must remain closed except upon entering and exiting the DFA.
  • Owners must immediately clean up after their dogs. Owners who fail to clean up after their dogs are subject to a fine of up to $500 (City of Chicago Ordinance 7-12-420).
  • Dogs with a known history of, or who exhibit, dangerous behaviors are prohibited.
  • Dogs must be healthy, fully immunized, dewormed, licensed and comply with the Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control Regulation for Chicago Park District DFAs.
  • No dog will be allowed in a DFA unless it has a current rabies vaccination.
  • Dog owners are responsible for the monitoring and maintenance of the DFA.
  • No Food (human or dog food) is allowed inside the DFA
  • Owners or other responsible persons must have a DFA permit with them for each dog visiting the DFA.
  • DFA permits are valid from January 1 through December 31 each year.
  • Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult; younger children must be closely supervised.
  • Only three dogs per person allowed.
  • Puppies under four months old and female dogs in heat are prohibited.
  • Failure to comply with the Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control Regulation for Chicago Park District DFAs can result in a fine of up to $500

You can find further information including DFA park locations @ www.chicagoparkdistrict.com

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