Kennewick council approves new dog‑park rules, bans food, treats, alcohol and glass; penalty set

Kennewick City Council on Sept. 2 adopted an ordinance amending Kennewick Municipal Code section 10.08.040 to set rules for the city's dog parks, including a prohibition on food, treats, alcoholic beverages and glass containers and a civil infraction penalty.

Parks staff presented the ordinance as a set of rules to protect health and safety and to keep facilities clean and accessible. Key provisions described in staff remarks include that owners must maintain sight and control of their dogs at all times; aggressive or disruptive dogs must be leashed and removed immediately; dogs must remain leashed while entering and exiting the park and gates must be closed; children must be accompanied and supervised; owners are responsible for removing pet waste and filling holes; and park use is limited to daylight hours. Staff noted signage will be posted at each major entrance and that the proposed language would give the city authority to address violations.

During debate Council members raised questions about enforcement, proof of vaccination or registration, toys in the park, and whether penalties were appropriate for code language labeled as "encouragement." City staff described the penalty as a civil infraction with a maximum penalty of $250 and explained enforcement is likely report‑based, with animal control responding on request and code enforcement or patrol able to issue citations if a violation is observed. Chief Heffner clarified fireworks are already illegal in city parks and not addressed by this ordinance.

Mayor Pro Tem Torelli moved to strike the original paragraph 3(gs) and replace it with language reading, "food, treats, alcoholic beverages, and glass containers are prohibited in the dog park." The amendment was seconded and passed unanimously, seven‑zero. Council Member Anderson then moved to adopt the ordinance as amended; Council Member McShane seconded. The clerk announced the adoption passed unanimously, seven‑zero.

Council discussion and staff remarks repeatedly framed the ordinance as a starting point: staff and several council members described the rules as posted expectations that the community will largely self‑police, with escalation to registration requirements or other enforcement tools if problems persist. Staff said dog‑waste bag dispensers will be provided at multiple locations within the small and large dog areas.