The Atherton Police Department is receiving complaints regarding dogs being off leash at Holbrook Palmer Park, 150 Watkins Ave., and will be taking enforcement action for leash law violations.
Atherton's leash law is governed by Municipal Code 6.04.060(A). This Municipal Code reads, "No owner or possessor of any animal shall cause or permit it to do any of the following: To be upon any public street, sidewalk, park, school ground, any public property, or upon any unenclosed premises in this jurisdiction unless the animal is properly licensed, if such licensing is necessary hereunder, and under the control of the owner by being saddled, harnessed, haltered, or leashed by a substantial chain, lead rope or leash, which chain, lead rope or leash shall be continuously held by some competent person capable of controlling such animal".
In summary, all dogs in public areas must be leashed. The fine schedule for leash law violations is as follows:
- 1st Citation - $100
- 2nd Citation - $200
- 3rd Citation - $500
- 4th + Citation - $500
Leash laws exist for good reason as they protect the safety of humans and non-humans alike. Please abide by our leash law regulations so our public spaces remain clean and friendly for all to enjoy.
If you would like to report a dog off leash violation, contact the Atherton Police Department at 650-688-6500. As a reminder, Holbrook Palmer Park is open sunrise to sunset.
