Can my dog be off-leash at Challenger Bark (Challenger DFA)?

Off-leash is allowed only during posted hours: 6 AM–11 PM.

Is Challenger Bark (Challenger DFA) fenced?

Yes — Challenger Bark (Challenger DFA) is fully enclosed.

Is Challenger Bark (Challenger DFA) free?

Yes — Challenger Bark (Challenger DFA) is free to access. Street parking near Irving Park Rd; Red line to Sheridan.

Fenced dog park · Lakeview / Buena Park · 1100 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60613

Challenger Bark (Challenger DFA)

A small fenced off-leash DFA in Challenger Park, just east of the elevated tracks and the playground, with a doggie drinking fountain. A tidy Lakeview neighborhood run.

Off-leash · set hours

Off-leash right now?

Off-leash during set hours

6 AM–11 PM.

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The facts

Off-leash
Off-leash · set hours
Fenced
Yes — enclosed
Water
Fountain on site
Size
0.08 acres
Hours
6 AM–11 PM
Surface
Grass / dirt

Parking & access

Street parking near Irving Park Rd; Red line to Sheridan.

Good to know

Requires a Chicago Park District DFA permit + tag ($10/dog per year from a participating vet, with current vaccinations) — using a DFA without one risks a $500 fine.
Fully fenced and gated; one of the smaller runs — good for a quick visit.
No food inside, no puppies under 4 months, no female dogs in heat.

Verified off-leash rules

Rules verified · source: Chicago Park District