Saanich Dog Park
Maps & Rules
The District of Saanich publishes official maps showing which parks allow off-leash dogs, which require a leash, and which ban dogs entirely. Here is a direct, plain-English breakdown to help you navigate the colour coding and enjoy a stress-free outing.
Understanding the colour coding
The District of Saanich uses colour-coded zones on its official park maps. Here is what each colour means and what you need to know as a dog owner.
Map 1: Leash-Optional Parks
Off-Leash All Day (Green)
Dogs may be off-leash at any time in these green zones, provided they are under control. These are the parks where you can let your dog run freely during your entire visit.
Off-Leash 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM Only (Yellow)
Dogs may be off-leash only during the early morning window in these yellow zones. After 9:00 AM, dogs must be on-leash. This is the restriction that catches most people off guard.
Restricted Hours (Red)
Red zones on Map 1 indicate areas with restricted or conditional off-leash access. Check on-site signage for specific conditions and time windows that apply.
Map 2: On-Leash & No-Dogs Zones
On-Leash Required (Blue)
Dogs must be on a standard fixed-length leash at all times in these blue zones. Retractable leashes are banned in all Saanich parks. These areas typically surround playgrounds, sports fields, and sensitive ecosystems.
No Dogs Allowed (Orange)
Dogs are completely banned from these orange zones. Entering with a dog can result in a fine. These are typically sensitive wildlife habitats and conservation areas like Swan Lake, Quick's Bottom, and Rithet's Bog.
Leash-Optional Parks in Saanich
This official District of Saanich map shows all parks where dogs may be off-leash, including both all-day zones and the 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM restricted windows.
Key detail: Leash-optional hours vary by location. Parks marked with the 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM restriction require your dog to be leashed after 9:00 AM. Check the map carefully to verify the exact hours for each park.
On-Leash & No-Dogs Zones in Saanich
This map shows the on-leash areas and the zones where dogs are completely banned. Pay close attention to the red zones: these are conservation areas with strict no-dog rules.
The official On-Leash & No-Dogs Allowed Parks Map is published by the District of Saanich as a downloadable PDF.
View Official Map (PDF)No-dogs zones: Dogs are banned entirely from Swan Lake/Christmas Hill Nature House area, Quick's Bottom, and Rithet's Bog. These are sensitive conservation areas where dogs can disturb nesting birds and fragile ecosystems. Fines apply.
Quick reference for Saanich dog owners
The rules in Saanich are more complex than most Greater Victoria municipalities. Here are the essentials every dog owner should know.
- Retractable leashes are banned in all Saanich municipal parks. Use a standard fixed-length leash. Fines: $100 to $150.
- "Under control" means your dog is leashed or under voice and sight control when off-leash. They must be within clear line of sight and respond to immediate recall.
- Some parks are off-leash only 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM. After 9:00 AM, dogs must be leashed in these zones. Check the map before you go.
- Beach and picnic area access is restricted at Beaver Lake, Hamsterly, Eagle, and Water Ski beaches from June 1 to September 15. On-leash transit is permitted, while lingering or swimming is prohibited during this window.
- Always clean up after your dog. Poop-and-scoop is mandatory in all Saanich parks. Fines range from $100 to $150.
- Dogs are banned entirely from Swan Lake/Christmas Hill, Quick's Bottom, and Rithet's Bog. These are protected conservation areas.
More Saanich dog resources
Saanich Dog Guide
Off-leash parks, bylaws, and everything you need to know about dogs in Saanich.
All Off-Leash Parks
15+ off-leash areas across 7 municipalities, from fenced fields to forest trails.
Seasonal Rules
Beach restrictions, nesting bird seasons, and time-of-year leash rules.
Official Source
These maps and rules are sourced directly from the District of Saanich. For the most current bylaws, signage, and park-specific updates, always check the official page.
Saanich Dogs in Parks: Official Page
By Happy Homes Team - eXp Realty - Victoria, BC Real Estate Team
Compiled from official District of Saanich park maps