Golden Gate National Recreation Area: dogs on beaches

Under the 1979 Pet Policy, dogs may be leashed or under voice control at Fort Funston (except the 12-acre closure in the northwest) and Ocean Beach. In the Ocean Beach Snowy Plover Protection Area, from Stairwell 21 south to Sloat Boulevard, dogs must be on a leash of 6 feet or less from July 1 to May 15 (36 CFR 7.97(d)). Pick up after your dog.

Source: National Park Service, Golden Gate NRA Superintendent's Compendium. Checked October 27, 2026.

Beaches and walks

• Fort FunstonOff-leash dogs allowed all year
• Ocean Beach (north of Stairwell 21)Off-leash dogs allowed all year
• Ocean Beach (Stairwell 21 to Sloat Boulevard)Dogs on a leash from July 1 to May 15. Off-leash the rest of the time