Cole County parks committee recommends countywide leash requirement; commission asks staff to draft ordinance

Parks staff told the Cole County Commission on Dec. 16 that inconsistent park signage and a citizen complaint about dogs off‑leash prompted the parks committee to revisit leash rules and recommend a countywide leash requirement for the three county parks.

"At that December 2 meeting, the parks committee did vote unanimously to recommend that the county commission adopt that leash requirement for the 3 county owned parks," the parks representative said, noting prior reviews in 2008 and 2015 had opted not to recommend a leash requirement. Staff said outreach for the Dec. 2 meeting included a news release and social‑media posts; turnout was limited but online reach exceeded 1,000 people.

Commissioners discussed enforcement mechanics and penalties. The county’s pet‑waste ordinance currently provides an infraction penalty; one participant said violations could carry fines up to about $300, and staff said the sheriff’s office would likely be the primary enforcer for ticketing. Commissioners emphasized the policy would be complaint‑driven rather than involving proactive patrolling of parks.

Several commissioners and staff raised liability and operational questions about a fenced dog park as an alternative. Parks staff said the parks committee will explore dog‑park options and investigate how nearby jurisdictions operate their facilities, including membership fees and maintenance models.

The commission did not adopt an ordinance the same day but directed parks staff to draft ordinance text that incorporates a leash requirement into the existing pet‑waste ordinance, estimate signage and retrofit costs, and return for further consideration.

What’s next: Parks staff will draft a leash ordinance, consult with law enforcement and the county attorney on enforceability and liability, and report back to the commission and parks committee.