As the winter months approach, the city is updating the community on weather conditions and their potential impacts on our beloved community amenities, particularly the Dog Beach. The city is dedicated to ensuring the continued availability of the Dog Beach throughout the winter season. However, everyone must be aware of and adhere to the regulations in place during this time. The use of the Dog Beach is at your own risk and should be used with extra caution during the winter months.
Snow/Ice
Snowfall poses potential risks to the safety of our community members and their dogs. Accumulating snow and subsequent icy conditions may create hazardous situations at the Dog Beach, leading to slips, falls, and potential injuries for both pets and their owners. Please exercise caution.
Salt
To maintain the environmental integrity of Lake Michigan, no salt must be used in or around the Dog Beach area. The City of Evanston, along with other municipalities along the lake, are working together to keep chloride (an element in salt) out of Lake Michigan. This measure includes NOT using “pet friendly” or chloride-free ice melts. No city staff member will salt the sidewalks of the Dog Beach. If any type of salt or deicing material is applied by a Dog Beach user, the city will close the Dog Beach for the remainder of winter. Salt can introduce pollutants into the lake and the surrounding dune areas. Your cooperation is appreciated in helping protect this valuable natural resource.
Gate and Fence
Please be aware that the gate combination lock may be susceptible to damage in extreme cold and wet weather conditions and may be susceptible to freezing. Within reason, city staff will continue to maintain the gate and combination lock. Repetitive malfunctions and damage may result in the closure of the Dog Beach. Your vigilance is crucial in ensuring the security and accessibility of the Dog Beach throughout the winter. Please do not use any force to open the gate and report any issues promptly to 311 by calling/texting 847-448-4311.
Ice Shelf
For your safety, please keep off the ice shelf. Walking or playing on the ice can be hazardous and pose risks to individuals and their pets.
Dog Waste Removal
As a part of winter preparation, the orange and blue dog waste buckets will be removed by Friday, Dec. 6. This measure is taken to prevent potential hazards during winter storms and to avoid the risk of the buckets being swept into Lake Michigan by winds and high waves. The waste containers on the wooden posts at the north and south entrances will remain available for public use.
Wash-down Hose
Due to the anticipated cold temperatures, the wash-down hose will be turned off and removed for the winter season.
2025 Dog Beach Passes
2025 Dog Beach passes are anticipated to be available beginning the week of February 17, with the new season commencing on March 3, 2025. Please ensure your pet is up-to-date on all required vaccinations and that you have obtained the 2025 City of Evanston pet license.
Closures and Communications
The city reserves the right to close the Dog Beach at any time to ensure the well-being of all community members and their dogs. The decision to close the beach may be made in response to various factors, including weather conditions, safety concerns and compliance with established rules.
In the event of a closure, an email will be sent to Dog Beach email subscribers and a sign will be posted at the Dog Beach entrance.
Your commitment to following the winter rules outlined for the Dog Beach will contribute to the well-being of the community. As a reminder, dogs are not allowed on any other beach and basketball or tennis courts. All dogs must be leashed while in city parks.
As an additional option, passes may be purchased for the use of Pooch Park in Skokie. Learn more on the city website.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the city’s Parks and Recreation Department by calling 847-448-4311, or simply dialing 3-1-1 while in Evanston.
