8 places to bring your dog in South Portland

South Portland Weighs Permanent Dog Park While Keeping Existing Dog‑Friendly Spots Open

South Portland, Maine — In a city where more than 1,000 dogs roam, graze, and play, city officials are looking at a new permanent dog park that would give pets a dedicated, fenced space. The proposal, currently in the early planning stage, could be slated for the 2028 fiscal‑year budget and would rely on grants and private fundraising rather than taxpayer dollars.

The idea surfaced during a City Council meeting on September 20, when councilors approved redirecting existing funds toward design and cost estimation for a fenced dog park on open space at the Wainwright Recreation Complex. Councilors emphasized that the city should pursue grant opportunities and fundraising to avoid direct taxpayer contributions. “We want to create a space for our pets without putting a strain on residents’ budgets,” one councilor told reporters. The park would be developed on the complex’s unused grounds, offering a safe, off‑leash area for dogs and their owners.

For now, South Portland already offers several dog‑friendly locations where pets can stretch their legs, run on the beach, or explore wooded trails. The city’s current list includes:

• Willard Beach (1 Fisherman Lane) – Dogs may roam freely on the beach from May 1 through September 30 between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m., and again from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. From 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., leashes are required. The beach does not allow dog toys, and off‑leash dogs must remain within 100 feet of their owners and under voice control. During the off‑season, dogs are allowed from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., but must be leashed between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
• Hinckley Park (288 Highland Ave) – The wooded park’s trails open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., but leashes are required between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
• Bug Light Park (40 Madison St.) – In addition to its waterfront views, the park allows dogs but requires that they stay within 100 feet of their owners and be under voice control.
• The Greenbelt Walkway – Dogs may stroll along the walkway and through Mill Creek Park, provided they remain leashed.

Dog owners also have several local businesses that welcome pets. “We’re a proud dog‑friendly venue,” said a staffer at Sea Dog Brewing Co. on Western Ave. The 125‑foot‑wide patio opens Monday through Sunday, with operating hours varying from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. The Send Brewing Co. on Ocean St. offers a Japanese‑style menu and a patio that accommodates well‑behaved dogs. Its hours range from noon to 9 p.m. on most days, with the exception of a Tuesday closure. Rattle Shake Grill on Cottage Rd. serves burgers and provides water bowls for pups on its outdoor patio. Lastly, the Duluth Trading Company in Maine Mall Rd. gives free treats to leashed dogs that visit during normal business hours.

One South Portland resident, Patrick Anderson, recently posted a picture of his 2‑year‑old German shepherd at Bug Light Park. In a playful post, Anderson quipped, “He’s pretty much the boss. He’s a working dog. If you don’t give him a job, he gives you one.” Anderson’s photo, taken in September 2024, reflects how dogs have become integral to everyday life in the city.

The council’s push for a dedicated dog park follows a growing trend in the region to improve canine amenities. While the city’s current off‑leash options are well‑used, many residents and pet‑owners have voiced a desire for a permanent space that can accommodate larger crowds and offer a more controlled environment. By exploring grant opportunities and private fundraising, city officials hope to sidestep potential opposition to new taxes or increased fees.

“We’re excited about the possibilities for a new dog park, but we also want to make sure it’s funded in a way that respects the community,” said another councilmember. “That’s why we’re looking into grants and private partnerships.” The city’s current budget will likely be reviewed next spring to determine the feasibility of including a permanent dog park in the FY 2028 proposal.

For now, South Portland’s existing dog parks and beach areas provide ample opportunities for pet‑friendly outings. Whether it’s a sunrise jog along the Greenbelt Walkway or an evening stroll at Willard Beach, the city’s residents can already enjoy a range of outdoor activities with their canine companions. As the city considers a new fenced park, residents are encouraged to participate in upcoming council meetings and public hearings to share their support or concerns.

The council will release a more detailed proposal in the coming months, outlining design options, projected costs, and potential grant sources. Pet owners will have the chance to weigh in before the final recommendation is made to the full council. In the meantime, South Portland remains a welcoming place for dogs and their owners, offering plenty of open spaces, pet‑friendly cafés, and a community that values the bond between humans and their four‑legged friends.