What’s happening?

The City of Richmond is seeking feedback from Hamilton residents to inform planning and design of a permanent dog off-leash area at McLean Neighbourhood Park.

In 2022, a public engagement process was completed to determine Hamilton residents' preferences related to dog off-leash areas in the community. The results indicated strong support for establishing a new dog off-leash area at McLean Park.

In response, in June 2023, the City installed a temporary dog off-leash area in the northwest corner of McLean Park as a pilot project. The intent was to gauge success and allow feedback received during this trial period to inform the planning and design of a permanent dog off-leash facility at the park.

The City is now ready to commence the planning and design phase for a permanent dog off-leash area in McLean Park.

Share your thoughts

We would like to hear your input on the following topics:

  • Your level of satisfaction with the current location and size of the temporary dog off-leash area
  • Your comments regarding the temporary dog off-leash area location and size
  • The features you would like to see prioritized in a permanent dog off-leash area
  • Anything else you would like to tell us

Happy dog in off-leash park

Feedback from this survey will help us develop a plan for a permanent dog off-leash area in McLean Park that will strive to best meet the needs of the community. It is anticipated to include:

  • 1.2-metre high timber and wire mesh fencing
  • site furnishings, such as benches
  • new resilient surfacing, such as crushed gravel and/or wood fibre
  • a drinking fountain for people and pets
  • accent planting

Upon completion of the planning and design phase, it is anticipated that construction of a permanent dog off-leash area in McLean Park could occur by summer 2026.

How to participate

  1. In person: Drop by a pop-up event at McLean Neighbourhood Park (22500 McLean Avenue) on Saturday, October 25 from 10:00am to noon.
  2. Online: Please share your feedback by completing the 5-minute survey below before 11:59pm on Sunday, November 2, 2025.