Dogs in the Presidio
Learn about where and how to walk your dog in this national park site.
What is the policy for dog walking in the Presidio?
Walking is a fun and healthy way to explore the Presidio. Here’s where and how you can enjoy the park while walking with your dog.
The Presidio is unique among national park sites in that most spaces are available for dog walking. Because the Presidio is home to wild plants and animals and is shared by many people, the Presidio Trust has rules to protect nature and ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone.
This page provides a high-level summary. The Presidio Trust’s complete pet policy is described in its Compendium (see p. 11 and Exhibits 6 and 7).
Note that the Presidio Trust manages the interior 80% of Presidio lands. The National Park Service manages coastal areas, such as Baker Beach and the open spaces at Crissy Field. To learn about the pet policy in those areas, visit the National Park Service website.
Remember, help us keep the park clean and safe for everyone by picking up after your pet and depositing refuse in a refuse container (not composting or recycling). Thank you!
Where to Walk Your Dog in the Presidio
Dogs are allowed on leash in most areas in the Presidio.
Dogs are not allowed in certain areas, including fenced areas, ball fields, playgrounds, Presidio Golf Course, Picnic Place at Presidio Tunnel Tops, sensitive natural areas, and trails experiencing seasonal closures. Dogs may also be restricted from lawns during special events. These restrictions do not apply to Service Animals.
Dog walkers should be aware that there are coyotes present in the Presidio. Coyotes are canines and may be reactive to the presence of dogs. Pay attention to your surroundings and exercise caution. See the coyote webpage for guidance and informational videos.
Limited Area for Managed Dogs - Voice Control Dog Walking
Managed dogs – leashed or under voice control – are allowed in a defined area on and near West Pacific Avenue, per the 1979 Pet Policy. Note: “voice control” is the ability to use verbal commands to control a dog – meaning the dog is immediately and reliably obedient to any voice or sound command given by an owner or keeper and they’re able to prevent the dog from charging, chasing, or otherwise disturbing or interfering with any person or animal, regardless of the distance involved or the presence of any distraction or provocation.
Dog walkers should be aware that there are coyotes present in the Presidio. Coyotes are canines and may be reactive to the presence of dogs. Pay attention to your surroundings and exercise caution. See the coyote webpage for guidance and informational videos.
We do not recommend walking small dogs off leash in the Presidio.
Commercial Dog Walking Permit
The Presidio Trust and National Park Service require that commercial dog walkers in the Presidio possess a valid commercial dog walking permit issued by the National Park Service. Commercial dog walkers are permitted to walk a maximum of six dogs at once.
The permit applies to the entire Presidio, encompassing all areas managed by the Presidio Trust and the National Park Service. City-issued permits do not apply.
Information on permit requirements and how to apply can be found on the National Park Service website.