Last year, in February, the idea of a Dog Park in Northlake was initially proposed. Dog Parks are a popular new recreational activity for dog owners and their four footed friend. They are popping up all over America including the Chicago land area. Towns such as Chicago, Addison, Evanston, Forest Park, Oak Park and Oak Brook just to name a few. After a thorough review of the issues, along with feedback from the public, the City Council voted on March 20th to open an "experimental" Dog Park in Center point Preserve. The park will run for one year, and then the City Council will reevaluate the success of the project next year to determine if they will make it a permanent Dog Park. The initial proposed site was along Palmer Ave., but after concerns were expressed from residents in that area, the city chose another site in Center point Preserve. Look for the large American flagpole and you will easily find the new site. Currently, the City's Animal Control Ordinance (5-5A-3, A & C.2.) states that:
"No person shall permit any dog or cat to run at large in the city" nor "to trespass upon any street or other public place unless the dog or cat is under the control of the owner or other person in a vehicle or is controlled by a chain or leash of sufficient strength and length to control the actions of the dog or cat."
Most of us have seen individuals walking their dog's) off leash in Center point Preserve in violation of this ordinance. Obviously, there are individuals who enjoy letting their dogs off leash. A dog park is a solution to this problem.
So what exactly is a dog park? According to the definition of the City's new Ordinance O-09-2006, " a dog park means an enclosed area were dogs are permitted to be off a leash." But a dog park is much more than that. One new resident of Northlake wrote to us telling of her experiences with dog parks:
"A walk around the neighborhood demonstrates many Northlake residents are dog owners. A dog park would be a wonderful addition to our community. The park will provide a place for owners and their dogs to socialize, exercise and practice good citizenship. Well-socialized dogs are less likely to be aggressive towards strangers. Socialization is very important to maintain harmony, not only amongst our canine friends, but also amongst members of our community. A friendly and safe gathering place opens the doors to new friendships. Northlake offers wonderful parks, trails and sidewalks for residents to exercise. Our four-legged friends are also feeling the bulge in their waistlines. Although many places offer dogs to be on a leash, a park dedicated to their needs would allow dogs to play and explore without getting their leashes tangled around lamp posts, trees and other obtrusive objects. Many people practice good citizenship, but do their pets? Dogs need constant training and practice to remember their manners. A dog park provides the perfect place for this practice and owners can even benefit by learning from each other." Joslyn Osteen, 4th Ward Resident.
The experimental dog park will be set up according to the Cook County Animal Control Ordinance that went into effect June 1, 2005. The city is required to issue permits, verifying that every dog that enters the park is free of communicable diseases. Anyone entering the park with a dog that does not have a permit will be subject to a fine of not less than $50, but not more than $1,000. Rules have been established and will be posted at the park. Most people who go to dog parks feel that when the regulations make sense and are not too restrictive, people usually have few problems following them. Remember, these rules are established to protect you and your dog's).
If you are interested in obtaining a Dog Park Permit, cut out the application and have it filled out and signed by your veterinarian. If you take your dog for it's annual rabies vaccine, then your dog is also receiving the other vaccinations for Distemper, Hepatitis, Para-influenza and Parvovirus. If you kennel your dog then he/she also gets the Kennel Cough vaccine. Make sure you also bring in a stool sample for your veterinarian to test for internal parasites. Then, bring the completed application to City Hall. The permit also requires that your dog have a City of Northlake Pet License, which is $2.00. You will then be issued your City of Northlake Dog Park Permit, which is $10 for the first dog and $5 for each dog up to three total. You must wear this permit while at the Dog Park and your dog must be wearing their Rabies tag and City of Northlake Pet License. The City of Northlake Police Department and Leyden Animal Control will patrol the area and enforce the rules. The park is also under video surveillance.
The City of Northlake is very excited to be making this opportunity available to its residents. We hope you enjoy the new Dog Park and would like any feedback you feel would be helpful to make it a success. You can send comments to
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Park rules :
Enter at your own risk
CLEAN UP after your dog(s)! Dispose of waste in cans provided.
Dogs must be wearing a current rabies tag and City of Northlake pet tag. Owner must be wearing their Dog Park Permit. Permit applications available at City Hall or online.
Dog owners not complying with rules will be subject to fines of up to $1,000. Periodic monitoring and video surveillance will be conducted by the City of Northlake Police and Leyden Animal Control.
NO DOGS KNOWN TO BE AGGRESSIVE toward people or other dogs (or exhibiting any threatening behavior) may enter the park. Leash your dog immediately if aggressive behavior is observed at which time your dog may need to be removed from the park.
Handlers can be held CRIMINALLY LIABLE for any injury inflicted by their dog(s), to humans or other dogs!
Under "The Ryan Armstrong Law" Public Act 093-0548 (Illinois State law)
Homeowners/Renter's insurance strongly recommended!
Dogs must be under VOICE CONTROL at all times!
CLOSELY SUPERVISE your dog(s) and be within view. Do not leave your dog(s) unattended.
Leash your dog(s) while entering/exiting the park.
