Please Don't Feed the Squirrels, Birds and Other Wildlife!
You may not be aware of this but, feeding squirrels, birds and other wildlife causes populations to grow beyond their natural limits. Overpopulation may be controlled by other methods, including poison. Don't contribute to the death of wildlife by feeding them. Feeding wildlife is also prohibited by the CA State Penal Code and is punishable by fines up to $500.
Places for Off-Leash Dogs
Dogs are not allowed at any beach or beach access operated by the City. Dogs are allowed, when on a leash of not more than six (6) feet, at other City parks.
The City of Encinitas offers three parks where your dog can be off-leash during specific hours and days. These parks are Encinitas Viewpoint Park on "D" Street, Orpheus Park on Orpheus Drive and Sun Vista Park (east) on Avenida La Posta. Dogs are allowed off-leash at these parks only during the following hours:
- 6:00 a.m. to 7:30 a.m., Monday, Wednesday and Friday
- 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday, Wednesday and Friday
Trail Segment 72, located on City property underneath the SDG&E Powerlines between Encinitas Blvd. and Mountain Vista Drive, has been designated an off-leash dog area.
In addition, your dog must be licensed and under your direct voice control, sufficient to ensure that the dog is not involved in a violation of any other laws. The dog must not bite or harass park visitors or other dogs, and it must not interfere with the public’s use of the park. Remember that it is your responsibility to clean up after your pet.
Dog Licensing, Lost Animals and Shelters
The City contracts with the San Diego County Department of Animal Services to provide animal and pet related services. These include enforcement of animal laws, regulations and ordinances, provision of licensing and adoption services, and sheltering of lost and abandoned animals.
The Department of Animal Services operates a web site that provides additional information about their services. Please visit their site at http://www.sddac.com/. The North San Diego County Shelter, located at 2481 Palomar Airport Road in Carlsbad, can be reached by phoning (760) 438-2312 or (760) 746-7307. Please call either of these numbers regarding lost pets, stray or injured dogs in your neighborhood, to report a dangerous or threatening animal or to inquire about pet adoptions and licensing.
Report Dead Animals
Dead animal pickup and removal service on public property, public streets and public right-of-way is provided by a private contractor. Please call the Parks and Recreation Department at (760) 633-2740, or D&D Disposal directly at (888) 299-9905 to report a dead animal for pickup or for more information about this service.