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Committee raises concern about off‑leash dogs on Fayetteville trails and asks staff to consider signage and enforcement
Summary
Committee members reported increasing instances of off‑leash dogs on trails — some aggressive — and asked staff to replace missing trail signage, consider clearer enforcement and explore programs to reduce conflicts between dogs and trail users.
Committee members raised safety concerns about dogs off leash on Fayetteville trails during public‑business discussion at the Active Transportation Advisory Committee meeting on April (date not specified). Members said off‑leash dogs appear more common in some areas (Bully Park cited) and described at least one near‑confrontation with an aggressive dog that was leashed at the last moment.
Members said existing trail signage addressing leash rules appears to be missing in some locations; staff confirmed there are trail‑specific signs in the system and said crews could prioritize replacements for signs that have disappeared. Committee members suggested stronger messaging, consistent signage, warning of fines and targeted education as ways to reduce conflicts. One member described a voluntary "voice and sight" certification program (register‑and‑demonstrate off‑leash control) as a possible tool to consider; staff said they would discuss options with enforcement and parks staff.
No ordinance change or new enforcement policy was proposed or voted on at the meeting; members asked staff to prioritize replacing signage and to coordinate with enforcement on practical measures.
