Centennial Dog Beach Update

The Winnetka Park District would like to clarify the upcoming discussion regarding the dog beach slated for the March 20, 2025 Park Board meeting. The Park Board has not yet had any discussions or made any decisions on this matter, but it will be reviewing options to ensure compliance with Cook County regulations and Winnetka Park District ordinances. While there are mixed feelings and opinions within the community, there is no plan to close the dog beach. 
 
This discussion is necessary as Cook County Animal Control recently contacted the Park District in response to public complaints about off-leash dogs in an area designated as on-leash. This preliminary item on the Board’s agenda is to begin that discussion publicly. Cook County requires off-leash dog areas to be enclosed, but currently, the only permanent fencing at the dog beach is at the western-most area. To comply with regulations, the Board may consider a number of options. Two primary options brought forward by staff include:

• Adding a temporary fencing structure to create an enclosed off-leash area, ensuring adherence to county requirements. This option would require approvals from the Village of Winnetka and Cook County Animal Control at a minimum. There is a minimal cost impact, but more time required in permitting.
• Enforcing the existing ordinance that requires dogs to remain on-leash in Park District areas that are not enclosed. This is at a higher cost but would be required if we are not able to enclose the area with the approvals of the regulatory agencies.

 In addition, when considering the safety of intermingling dogs and people at the two beaches, the Park District has taken input from both the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Plan Commission during our time discussing the Centennial Beach improvement project. This input is particularly relevant as we work toward opening Elder Lane Beach to the community and ensure all safety concerns are addressed.
 
You can review the full agenda and discussion materials. 
 
This discussion is necessary to ensure that any final decision aligns with both community interests and legal requirements. Further Board action would be required with any option. This may include a change to existing ordinances to remove the on-leash requirement at Centennial Beach, Village permitting, or a budget adjustment to cover costs for enforcement. All of which would be before the Board in a public setting for the community to be involved. We encourage you to stay informed and participate in the process.