Leash rules in effect at Vic Mathias

Dog owners beware: The city will soon begin issuing citations to park visitors at Vic Mathias Shores whose dogs are off-leash beyond the confines of the newly designated off-leash area. Because of the recent redevelopment of Vic Mathias, some areas that were formerly designated as off-leash are now designated as on-leash. That change began in September, but park users have enjoyed a four-month grace period to adjust to the new rules. That grace period ends Monday, Jan. 25. Violators whose dogs are caught roaming free outside the off-leash area (which is at the western end of the park) may be fined up to $500.