Dog Parks
Madison Parks offers 9 fenced, off-leash dog park areas.
Image credit: North Star Dog Park by Autumn Linsmeier
Odana School, Warner, and Sycamore Parks also have a separate fenced area for small dogs.
Dog Permit
- All dogs must have a dog license and a daily or annual dog permit.
- A dog permit is also required for bringing a leashed dog to a general park, where allowed. See Dogs in Parks for more information.
2026 Fees
| Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Daily | $8 |
| Annual | $46 |
| Annual Senior (65+) & Disabled | $23 |
| Annual Military/Veteran | $23 |
| Replacement | $20 |
The emailed receipt is proof of purchase. The annual permit is mailed within 10 business days.
The Dog Permit is also valid in designated locations in Dane County Parks, Middleton and Sun Prairie. Permits for the following year are available for purchase starting November 1 and are valid from the time of purchase through the end of the permitted year.
Dog Park Rules
- Dogs must remain on a leash between your vehicle and the inside of the dog park area.
- Do not leave water or water bowls. Sharing water is not recommended and can lead to parasites and disease transmission.
- Visiting dogs from outside Madison are allowed in City parks with a valid dog license (from your municipality), vaccinations, and a daily Madison Parks Dog Permit. Your emailed receipt is proof of purchase if asked by a park ranger.
- Learn more about rules for dogs in parks.