Dog Regulations

These city ordinances (6.04, 13.12) and state regulations (310 CMR 22.20B) protect the water supply and wildlife habitat, while also ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Thank you for observing these rules while visiting Fresh Pond with your dog.

Click here to view the seasonal shared use guidelines at Kingsley Park.

1. Keep your dog on a leash no more than 6 feet long.

You may walk your dog off-leash only if you meet all of the following criteria:

  • your dog has as current and visible Cambridge license
  • you keep your dog within your sight at all times
  • your dog responds quickly when called
  • you walk your dog on-leash in parking lots
  • you are walking no more than 3 dogs.

2. Clean up after your dog. Bags and trash barrels are provided throughout the Reservation.

3. Make sure your dog has a current and visible license (if over 6 months old).

4. Keep your dog out of restoration areas as indicated by signs and/or fences.

5. Do not allow your dog to hurt, harass, or jump on people or other dogs.

6. Do not allow your dog to chase wildlife or other dogs.

7. Report all dog bites to Cambridge Animal Commission and City Rangers, if available.

Non-compliance can result in fines of up to $100 per offense. (6.04.040)

 

Fresh Pond Reservation is a Shared-Use Off-Leash Area. This means that dogs that meet all the above criteria may go off-leash but are not necessarily separated from other uses and activities. Click here to visit the City's page of all off-leash areas (Shared-Use Areas, Shared-Hours Areas, and Dedicated Off-Leash Areas). 

 

Limitations on this Property

Areas where all dogs must be on-leash (regardless if the dog wear a Cambridge license tag, and is under visual supervision and verbal control)

  • All parking lot areas
  • The Lusitania Meadow soil pathway
  • The Butterfly Meadow woodland trails
  • Maher Park Soccer Field
  • The Glacken Field Recreational Complex
  • The Fresh Pond Golf Course (only when the golfing season has concluded in the winter)

Areas where no dogs are allowed (except qualified service animals)

  • Inside the Ranger Station
  • Black's Nook
  • The Glacken Field Tot Lot Playground
  • The Kingsley Nature Playscape
  • Glacken Field Bullpens
  • The Fresh Pond Golf Course (during the golfing season)

 

Click here for a labeled map of Fresh Pond Reservation