Public parks and neighborhoods
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care and Control says a dog must be physically leashed on public walks, except within a designated dog park. Carrying an unattached leash does not satisfy the rule.
Charlotte dog rules that make planning easier.
The short version: keep your dog leashed in neighborhoods, standard parks and on greenways. Off-leash play belongs inside designated dog parks.
Leash requirements
County greenways
Mecklenburg County says greenway dogs need a leash six feet or shorter and should be walked on the right edge. Bag dog waste and use trash cans.
Off-leash dog parks
The county lists hours of 7:30 a.m. to sunset, current rabies (with tag number), DHLPP and Bordetella vaccinations, and no children under age 12 inside dog parks.
Temporary detours and closures
A listed route or park can have construction or flood-related restrictions. Check the county’s active closure page and posted signs for the day of your visit.
Where can my dog be off leash?
Only in designated dog-park areas, not on adjacent greenways or general park lawns. See eight documented dog parks around Charlotte.
Official sources: Mecklenburg County dog parks ↗ · County greenway network ↗ · Charlotte leash ordinance summary ↗ · Current park and trail closures ↗.
FROM THE GUIDE TO THE ADVENTURE
Open PawStreak →Choose a Charlotte stop. Make it a PawStreak day.
Find a documented park or greenway, check local rules, then plan your dog's next outing in PawStreak.
Sources checked November 5, 2026. Access, closures, and posted park signs can change; confirm with the operator before a special trip.