Barcelona has expanded its network of Shared Use Zones, or ZUCs, for off-leash dogs, adding six new areas and changing hours in several others since late 2023. The city now has 114 operational zones, alongside fenced dog areas, known as pipicanes.

The changes began after the city started fining owners for letting dogs off-leash in non-designated areas in late 2023. Over the past two and a half years, Barcelona created six more ZUCs and removed two, leaving a net total of 114. For the city’s official information on public spaces and local rules, see Barcelona City Council.

In Barcelona, at least 13 spaces have had their off-leash hours extended. The council says these areas were chosen where noise impact is lower, and where recent urban changes, including new green areas and new buildings, have altered local use.

Four of the new Shared Use Zones are in Sants-Montjuïc, and two are in Sant Andreu. In Sants-Montjuïc, the additions are in La Bordeta, Plaza de Cal Muns, Jardins del Valent Petit, Park of the Thirteen Roses in Marina de Prat Vermell, and Can Mantega Gardens in Sants. In Sant Andreu, dogs are now allowed in the Gardens of the Women of Motor Ibèrica and Plaza del Congrés Eucarístic, while the ZUC at Plaza del Canòdrom has been removed.

The city has also changed access in other parts of Barcelona. It reversed the off-leash section of the Marina dock in Barceloneta, and extended hours in areas across Ciutat Vella, Sants-Montjuïc, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, Sant Andreu and Sant Martí. Some zones now run continuously, including Pierre de Coubertin Street and Mirador del Migdia from 07:00 to 23:00, and Mirador del Poble-sec Park from 07:00 to 22:00.

At the same time, ten ZUCs have shorter opening times. The biggest cut is at Rambla de Sants Nord Gardens, which moved from 08:00 to 22:00 to two time slots. In Fòrum, Plaza Leonardo da Vinci and Plaza Fraternitat now only open from 20:00 to 23:00. The city also removed eight fenced dog areas, enlarged eight others and reduced four. It says the changes are meant to keep good dog-walking spaces close to residents, while improving coexistence in shared public areas.

For readers following local public-space changes in Barcelona, see our Community coverage and Sport updates. You can also join our Barcelona English Speakers community on WhatsApp.

Originally published by El Periódico Barcelona. Read original article.