Local Off-Leash Dog Area Strategy

A new off-leash dog area is coming to Mackenzie Valley Park in Ward 2

Mackenzie Valley Park, located at 5581 Major Mackenzie Drive (the southeast corner of Major Mackenzie Drive and Highway 27) has been selected for a fenced-in primary off-leash dog area.

This new off-leash dog area will include separate, fenced-in areas for large and small dogs, a parking lot with approximately 30 to 35 spaces, shade structures, lighting and a gathering area with seating. It will be approximately one hectare (2.5 acres) in size. Once complete, this primary off-leash location will be the second in Vaughan, complementing the existing primary location at Concord/Thornhill Regional Park.

From February 7 to March 21, the City of Vaughan invited residents to review the proposed site plans and provide feedback. Thank you to those who provided feedback.

Off-Leash Dog Area Stewardship Program

For an off-leash dog area to be developed and maintained, a minimum of three stewards must be registered with the City through the stewardship program. Stewards work collaboratively with City staff to:

• foster a positive social environment for dogs and people.
• educate others on local off-leash dog area regulations and etiquette.
• communicate any safety concerns to the City.
• share feedback about operations and maintenance.
• collaborate with the City on pilot studies and share input (e.g., what’s working well or opportunities for improvement and enhancement).

Looking to visit an off-leash dog area in Vaughan? The following locations are open to the public:

• Concord/Thornhill Regional Park, located at 299 Racco Pkwy.
• Legion Park, located at 70 Legion Court Rd.
• Mackenzie Glen District Park, located at 220 Cranston Park Ave.
• Matthew Park, located at 1 Villa Royale Ave.
• Sugarbush Heritage Park, located at 91 Thornhill Woods Dr.

Keep off-leash areas safe

All off-leash dog areas in Vaughan are secured, fenced-in spaces where dogs and their families can get exercise outdoors, socialize and roam free – safely. Each of the City’s off-leash areas has a locked gate and is accessible only to those who want to enter. This fenced area is always separated from playgrounds and other park facilities. These spaces enable dogs, their families and park visitors to safely co-exist and enjoy all that Vaughan’s outdoor amenities have to offer. To learn more about off-leash dog area safety and etiquette, watch this video.