Rules for walking dogs and cleaning up dog poop

The Hague is a big city where many people live together in a limited amount of space. Dog owners and people without a dog need to be able to use the limited public space in a pleasant way. This is why there are rules for dogs and their owners as well as specially designated free-run areas.

You are allowed to walk with your dog on a leash almost everywhere in the city. There are a few areas where dogs are not permitted. Dogs are not allowed on playgrounds, playing fields and sunbathing areas. In addition there are free-run areas (losloopgebieden) where dogs may roam freely as long as they do not get in the way of traffic or people and they do not disturb the wildlife.

Free-run areas

The free-run areas as well as the areas prohibited to dogs are indicated on the Hondenkaart. The free-run areas are shown in green or yellow (limited accessibility). The areas where dogs are not welcome are shown in red.

Beach

The beach has only limited access as a free-run area. Beach access for dogs depends upon the section of the beach, the season and the time of day.

Duty to clean up after your dog

You are obliged to clean up after your dog everywhere in the city. This applies to the areas where dogs may roam freely, including the beach. This is the way we keep The Hague clean. You as a dog owner must carry a 'pooper scooper' with you at all times, such as paper, plastic baggies or a small scoop. You can dispose of the dog poop in a dog poop bin, litter bin or underground rubbish container.

Only disabled people with a guide (seeing-eye) or service dog are not obliged to clean up after their dog.

Report dog poop

Have you seen dog poop lying on the street or sidewalk? You can report it to the municipality. The municipality will use this information to better maintain the area. The municipal inspection teams, foresters and the police will carry out spot checks to ensure that you are obeying the rules for keeping your dog on the leash and cleaning up the dog poop.

Dog tax

Dog owners are obliged to register their dog with the municipality and pay the dog tax (hondenbelasting).

Dangerous dogs and biting incidents

Dogs may not pose any danger to people and other animals. Should a dangerous situation arise or if you are involved in a biting incident, you can phone the police on tel. 0900 - 8844 or 112 in an emergency situation. Dogs which have been deemed dangerous are obliged to be put on a short leash and wear a muzzle when outdoors.