Mayor urges National Park Service to reconsider proposed dog restrictions at GGNRA

Mayor Edwin Lee told the San Francisco Board of Supervisors on Tuesday that he is concerned the Golden Gate National Recreation Area's revised dog management plan could overly restrict dog access and shift pressure onto city parks.

Supervisor Scott Wiener opened the question time by saying dog walking has been a longtime recreational use on GGNRA lands including Fort Funston, Crissy Field and Ocean Beach. Wiener asked whether the mayor agrees the National Park Service plan goes too far and whether he would work with the board and congressional representatives to press the Park Service to alter the plan.

“I'm concerned about the eventual result of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area's dog management plan,” Mayor Lee replied. He called GGNRA properties “some of the city's crown jewels” and noted the regional park system draws millions of visitors. Lee said the GGNRA attempts to balance recreational needs with sensitive habitats and that San Francisco faces similar park management challenges.

Lee urged the GGNRA to “fully consider the totality of impacts on streets, parks, and other city property” before finalizing the dog management plan, warning that displacement of dog use into city parks could strain municipal resources. He said the city will work with residents and the GGNRA during the public‑outreach process and offered to collaborate with supervisors on the issue.

Wiener noted unanimous board support for a resolution he authored opposing aspects of the Park Service proposal and said congressional leaders, including Nancy Pelosi and Congresswoman Jackie Speier, had urged the Park Service to extend the public comment period. The mayor said he respects Frank Dean, the GGNRA superintendent, and expects continued partnership with the Park Service.

No formal action by the Board of Supervisors was taken on the GGNRA plan during the meeting.