Weymouth Police: Keep Your Puppies Leashed In Public Parks

WEYMOUTH, MA — Weymouth loves its furry, canine friends — as long as they are on a leash. Weymouth police are reminding residents that town law requires dogs be kept on a leash in public parks.

Weymouth police said they have received "numerous complaints" about dogs being let off leash to romp around neighborhoods, and especially parks.

"Dogs are welcomes in most parks," Weymouth police posted on their Facebook page, "but most be leashed. The presence of dogs being off leash creates concerns for the safety and free movement of others trying to enjoy the town's parks."

Weymouth Ordinance 6-705-A requires dog owners or keepers to securely define their dog on a leash in public at all times.

Weymouth police alert residents that animal control officers have been doing extra patrols in parks for violations. Fines for having a dog off leash in a public park starts at $50. Be aware of further restrictions on dogs in some parks. Dog are never allowed on Weymouth's turf fields.

Weymouth police also remind residents that they must clean up any messes their dog makes in public. That includes bagging any waste and depositing it in a trash barrel or taking it with you. Leaving a doggie bag behind is littering and also punishable by fine.

Dog licenses in Weymouth expire on Dec. 31 and must be renewed for January 2020.