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MADISON · WISCONSIN · THE ISTHMUS

Madison dog rules worth knowing.

You need a dog permit even for a regular leashed visit to an allowed general city park.

Four checks before leaving

Permit

1. Obtain the required permit

Madison Parks requires a valid dog license and a daily or annual dog permit for all dogs entering allowed general parks on leash or designated fenced off-leash areas. Verify the latest year's fees and purchasing options with the city; rates may change. Official permits ↗

Leash

2. Use a leash outside dog parks

Dogs must stay leashed and under control in general park areas; designated fenced dog parks are where off-leash play is permitted. Clean up all dog waste. Official designated runs ↗

Restrictions

3. Know dog-prohibited zones

All conservation parks, designated park beaches and beach water, areas near playgrounds, splash parks, shelters and several other facilities prohibit dogs. Groomed cross-country ski trails are prohibited to dogs in winter. Complete exclusions ↗

Access

4. Review Quann event restrictions

Sections of Quann Dog Park may close for nearby Alliant Energy Center events; the city says an 11-acre section remains open during such events. Review current event dates and access gates. Quann city updates ↗

Verified from City of Madison pages November 8, 2026. Published permit prices are not copied here so later-year rates remain accurate at the official source.

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