Off-leash area in Austin, TX · one of 50, one of the largest
Emma Long Metro Park
Amenities
- Fenced No
- Size 193 acres
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Questions people ask
No. Emma Long Metro Park is not fully fenced, so dogs should have reliable recall. Leashes are typically required outside the designated off-leash area.
Emma Long Metro Park is open daily 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM. Hours can change seasonally, so check the official site before a first visit.
Dog park rules in Austin
Austin's Dog Off-Leash Areas (DOLAs) are the only public places in the city where a dog may legally be off leash; everywhere else dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet, with fines up to $500. Parks are generally open 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. unless posted otherwise.
- Dogs must be spayed or neutered and have a current rabies vaccination; puppies under four months are not allowed.
- Keep your dog in sight and under voice control; misbehaving dogs must be leashed and removed.
- No more than three dogs off leash per handler; professional walkers need a commercial-use permit.
- Flat buckle collars only — prong, choke and spiked collars are not allowed.
- Children under 12 must be with an adult; the city discourages children under 6 inside fenced DOLAs.
- Leash up until you are fully inside the DOLA, and in all trailhead and parking areas.
- Scoop the poop — and keep dogs from fouling creeks, dry creek beds and stream banks.
- Watch for harmful algae warnings at Lady Bird Lake in summer and fall; it can be fatal to dogs.
Summarized from Austin Parks and Recreation (DOLA Guidelines, 2026). Rules change — check signs at the park.
Dog parks near Emma Long Metro Park
- Red Bud Isle 13.0 acres