Dog-leashing rules promote courtesy and safety

The Trails Committee has received complaints about dogs that bite or harass other dogs and people on public land. This is not acceptable, and any dog behaving in this way is subject to immediate impoundment.

The general rule in town is that dogs must be leashed on public property, including conservation land, unless the town has posted permission for handlers to unleash their animals. Even then, the animal must be under absolute voice control.

It is also important to note that there are some trails in Acton where dogs are not allowed off-leash, either permanently or during certain seasons. For example, dogs must always be leashed on trails in Punkatasset Preserve, White Pond Reservation, and any food-producing agricultural land. In addition, some public trails, such as those at Mattison Field off Old Road to Nine Acre Corner, have seasonal restrictions on unleashing to protect wildlife habitat.

Ground-nesting bobolink birds, whose numbers are rapidly decreasing, nest in the meadow at Mattison Field and are particularly vulnerable to unleashed dogs. In addition, signs might be posted to leash near denning sites or around habitat for threatened species. Finally, dogs must be leashed at all times while walking on the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail.

A dog under effective voice control means it is in sight of its owner and responds to commands. Dogs under effective control will not run up on or jump on others or chase and harass wildlife, horses, other dogs, or humans.Please refer to Acton’s Natural Resources Division for more information on proper dog handling and etiquette, as well as information about repercussions if these rules are not adhered to.

Thank you for keeping Acton trails safe for all manner of beings — humans and animals alike.

Bob White

Monsen Road

Chair, Acton Trails Committee