Dog Off-Leash Recreation Area (DOLRA)

Barrie Molson Centre Valleylands DOLRA

A new off-leash recreation area is being  built in 2012 in the natural area to the east of the Barrie Molson Centre (555 Bayview Drive).  Dog owners will park in the north parking lot to the walk-in entrance. One large and one small (small dogs only) separate, double gated and fenced enclosures will be built on the level tablelands.  The remainder of the natural area will be open to use by off-leash dog owners but secure fencing will not be provided.  The new facility is scheduled to be installed in late spring, following the restoration of the adjacent stormwater ponds.

Click here to view a map of the Barrie Molson Centre DOLRA.

Sunnidale Park DOLRA

The Sunnidale Park DOLRA is located in a natural, rolling setting with earthen footpaths and is NOT wheelchair accessible.  The DOLRA is double gated with 4' high wire mesh fencing. Parking is available at the Dorian Parker Centre or along Sunnidale Road.  The total off-leash area is 2.89 hectares (7.15 acres) in size.

Click here to view a map of the Sunnidale Park DOLRA.

Future Off-Leash Recreational Areas

The City of Barrie is assessing sites for potential DOLRA locations in Barrie.  A DOLRA is defined as an area which has been set aside for residents to exercise their dogs off-leash without being in contravention of municipal by-laws.  A DOLRA allows dog owners to exercise and socialize with their animals in a protected environment.

User Guidelines

1. These are NOT supervised facilities. People and dogs visiting the DOLRA do so at their own risk.
2. Owners will be held liable for all actions of their dogs.
3. Dogs must be leashed when entering and exiting the off-leash areas.
4. Owners must be present, with a leash for each dog, and in view of their dog(s) at all times.
5. Aggressive dogs are not permitted in the off-leash area. Owners will be prosecuted and are liable for all damages and injuries subject to the provisions of the Dog Owners Liability Act.
6. All dogs must have a current license and rabies vaccination. Dog licenses must be affixed to the dog.
7. Dog feces must be picked up and disposed of by the owner in the receptacles provided.
8. No more than two dogs per owner within the DOLRA area.  Unattended dogs that are tied up outside the DOLRA are not permitted.
9. No people-food, breakables, spiked or chain link collars permitted in the off-leash area.
10. All dogs must be leashed outside of the DOLRA while in Sunnidale Park as per City of Barrie Animal Control By-Law.
11. DOLRA not recommended for children under the age of 18.  The parent or guardian is advised to closely supervise their children at all times.
12. This park is for the enjoyment of people and their canine pets.  No other animals allowed.

Pit Bull Type Dog Owners

Pit Bull Type Dogs must be leashed and muzzled at all times pursuant to the amended Dog Owner's Liability Act, R.S.O. 1990. Leash-free areas are not exempt from the Act. Pit Bull Owners are liable to fines of up to $10,000 and imprisonment for up to 6 months for contraventions. Report unmuzzled or unleashed Pit Bull Type Dogs to City of Barrie Municipal Law Enforcement at (705) 739-4241.

In the event of an incident, please call Municipal Law Enforcement at (705) 739-4241. For comments, concerns, or to report any damage, please call the Engineering Department (705) 739-4207. 

Additional Resources

• Society of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA)
• Listing of Dog Parks for Toronto, Mississauga, Etobicoke, Scarborough, Oakville, and Brampton
• Fun with your Dog