Rules of New York City Department of Parks & Recreation

Rockaway Freeway Dog Run Rules & Guidelines

The Rockaway Freeway Dog Run is a community space dedicated to the recreation and well-being of our beloved dogs. As stewards of the park, the Tail Waggers Task Force works alongside the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation to ensure a safe, clean, and enjoyable environment for all visitors.

Per NYC Department of Parks & Recreation, the following rules apply:

🔹 Be Courteous & Respectful – Please respect fellow dog owners and park visitors.
🔹 Dog Run Use is at Your Own Risk – Owners are responsible for their dogs’ behavior and safety.
🔹 For Dogs Only – The dog run is intended exclusively for canine recreation.

We encourage all visitors to help us maintain this space by cleaning up after their pets, following posted rules, and engaging in responsible pet ownership. Thank you for keeping Rockaway Freeway Dog Run a safe and welcoming place for our furry friends!

RULES OF THE RUN

Dog owners are responsible for their dogs’ actions.
Monitor and control your dog at all times, particularly non-neutered males as other males may react aggressively toward them.
Remain alert. Interrupt rough play and mounting.
No aggressive dogs.
Dogs involved in a fight must be removed from the run.
No dogs in heat.
Discourage excessive barking, especially in the early morning and late evening.
Dogs must be licensed, vaccinated against rabies, and free from all communicable diseases.
No people without dogs; no dogs without people.
A maximum of three dogs per person is allowed.
Children under the age of 12 must be supervised by an adult.
You must cleanup after your dog and place in a trash receptacle.
Dogs must wear a harness or collar while in the run.
No prong, choke, or spike collars.
Dogs must be leashed when exiting the dog run.
No littering, smoking, barbecuing, open flame, or consumption of alcohol.
No vending, amplified sound, demonstrations, or events over 20 people, except by permit.
No glass containers or food, except dog treats.
Do not leave personal property in the run.
To avoid injuries, please fill any holes.

For questions about Parks or to report an incident, please call 311 or visit nyc.gov/parks.

ALL RULES ARE ENFORCEABLE BY PARK ENFORCEMENT POLICE.

VIOLATING RULES SUBJECTS YOU TO FINES.

Important Information

The Rockaway Freeway Dog Run is a public space for dogs to exercise, socialize, and have fun under the supervision of their humans. The rules and guidelines below help prevent dogfights and help keep our dogs healthy and safe when visiting the dog park. If you feel comfortable, we encourage you to help enforce park rules and guidelines by politely pointing out inappropriate behavior without provoking an altercation.

By entering the Rockaway Freeway Dog Run:

You agree to abide by all NYC Department of Parks & Recreation rules.
You are legally and financially responsible for any injury caused by your dog.

We advise all visitors to read the entire New York City Department of Parks & Recreation Rules and Safety Information web page before entering the Rockaway Freeway Dog Run or any other dog-friendly park in NYC.

In an EMERGENCY – including dog fights, dog bites, and human altercations such as threats and physical violence –

Call 911.

For other concerns, such as tree damage:

Call 311,
Submit a report via the 311 app, or
Contact Parks Enforcement Police:
- (646) 306-2274 - Sgt. Gallagher
- (718) 760-4008

Park Use Agreement & Liability Disclaimer

By entering the Rockaway Freeway Dog Run, all park users agree to the following:

You assume all risk associated with the use of this facility.
You agree to hold harmless and free from liability the City of New York, NYC Parks & Recreation Department, and The Tail Waggers Task Force for any loss, injury, or damage resulting from the actions of any park users or their dogs.
You agree to fully comply with all posted rules and accept full legal responsibility for the actions of yourself and your dog.

Your cooperation helps ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Thank you for respecting the Rockaway Freeway Dog Run and our community!

Community Health & Safety Tips

At the Rockaway Freeway Dog Run, the safety and well-being of all dogs and their owners are our top priorities. In addition to the NYC Parks Department’s rules, we strongly encourage visitors to follow these community health and safety guidelines to ensure a positive experience for everyone.

🐾 Monitor Your Dog at All Times – This helps prevent fights and conflicts.
🐾 Only Enter if Your Dog is Friendly – If unsure, try a leashed introduction outside first.
🐾 Remove Leashes in the Entry Area – Leashed dogs may become defensive.
🐾 Always Close Gates Behind You – Prevent accidental escapes.
🐾 Limit Toys, Except for Balls – Remove items if they cause possessiveness.
🐾 Handle Fights Responsibly – Remove your dog and exchange contact info if needed.
🐾 Interrupt Rough Play & Mounting – Remove dogs if behavior continues.
🐾 Discourage Digging – Use tools provided to fill holes.
🐾 Clean Up After Your Dog – Dog waste carries harmful bacteria.
🐾 Supervise Children Closely – Running or teasing dogs can lead to accidents.
🐾 Limit Large Groups – Too many people can distract dogs.
🐾 Ensure Your Dog is Vaccinated & Tagged – NYC law requires it.
🐾 Keep Your Dog Hydrated – Especially in warm weather.
🐾 Stay Informed – Check the bulletin board for updates on health, events, advocacy, and volunteer opportunities.

By following these guidelines, we can maintain a safe, clean, and welcoming space for all. Thank you for doing your part to support the Rockaway Freeway Dog Run community!

Park Rules & Safety Advise

What Should I Do if Someone is Breaking the Rules?

All visitors play a role in preventing dog fights and conflicts by following the rules and encouraging others to do the same. If you witness inappropriate behavior, politely remind the individual of the rules, but do not engage in an altercation.

Please note: NYC Department of Parks & Recreation staff, Tail Waggers Task Force volunteers, and park visitors are not law enforcement.

🚨 In an EMERGENCY (dog fights, bites, threats, or physical violence) – Call 911.

📞 For non-emergencies (tree damage, maintenance issues):

Call 311
Submit a report via the 311 app
Contact Parks Enforcement Police at:
- (646) 613-1200
- (718) 760-6966

Who is Responsible for Veterinary Costs in a Dog Fight?

Under New York State law, a dog owner must pay for all veterinary bills if their dog attacks another dog. However, determining fault can be difficult. In cases where fault is unclear, owners should split veterinary costs.

⚠️ Dogs in heat are prohibited from the park. If a dog in heat is involved in a fight, that owner is fully responsible for all veterinary costs.

Prevention is key – monitor your dog at all times and do not enter if your dog does not socialize well with others.