The Minnetonka City Council has introduced two city ordinances that would change existing regulations related to off-leash dogs in the city.

The first would no longer permit dog owners to walk their dogs off-leash and at heel when off the owners’ property, such as walking in a neighborhood. The second proposed ordinance clarifies that animals are allowed in city parks, but only off-leash in designated areas. If adopted, that ordinance would not take effect until a working group provides input regarding designated off-leash areas.

Historically, Minnetonka has allowed dogs to be off-leash but subject to voice command throughout the city and within city parks. Purgatory Park in particular has been a popular area for dog owners to allow their dogs to run off-leash. In the course of developing the Purgatory Park Master Plan, residents voiced strong opinions both in favor of and against the off-leash provisions of the city’s ordinances.

More recently, at the joint meeting of the city council and park board on Sept. 4, 2024, the council and park board provided feedback and direction to staff regarding the regulation of off-leash dogs. Based upon that direction, staff prepared the two ordinances for the council’s consideration.

Prior to drafting final language for the city council, the city is open to feedback which can be shared on the Minnetonka Matters projects page. Public comment will be accepted through Nov. 12.