Parisians with Pups, Leash Up! New Dog-Walking Rules April to June 2025.
Bonjour, dog lovers of Paris! To protect the French wildlife, from 15 April to 30 June 2025, your dog must stay on a leash in woods and forests — unless you strictly walk on designated paths and trail. That means no off-road walkies through the underbrush without a leash.
The new dog-walking rule is to protect nesting birds and small mammals during their most vulnerable season. A curious dog might scare or even harm tiny wildlife who are just trying to raise a family.
The new rules are:
- If your dog leaves the official trail or forest path and is not on a leash, you are technically breaking the law.
- That could mean a fine of up to €750 as per Article R428-6 of the French Environment Code (Code de l’environnement).
- The French Environment Code defines a dog that is not kept on a leash to be considered as “roaming.”
Dogs are allowed to do the following:
- Dogs can still roam off-lead on official roads, forest paths, and trails during April to June.
- For the rest of the year, dogs don’t have to be on a leash, but they must stay within 100 metres of their human companion.
- Always check local park signs because some places have stricter rules year-round.
So, dog-walkers, pack a long leash for your dog to explore safely. And take treats to reward your dog for good leash manners. If unsure what to do, it is safer to keep your dog on a leash to avoid a fine.
A special note for Paris visitors, from 16 April to 30 June 2025, Parc Monceau in the 8th arrondissement offers a trial off-leash area for dogs daily from 7:00 – 9:00 am as an initiative to balance animal welfare with community enjoyment.
