Can my dog be off-leash at Puptown at Margate Park (DFA)?

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

Is Puptown at Margate Park (DFA) fenced?

Yes — Puptown at Margate Park (DFA) is fully enclosed.

Is Puptown at Margate Park (DFA) free?

Yes — Puptown at Margate Park (DFA) is free to access. Street parking near Marine Dr; Red line to Lawrence.

Fenced dog park · Uptown (lakefront) · 4900 N Marine Dr, Chicago, IL 60640

Puptown at Margate Park (DFA)

Known as 'Puptown,' this popular fully fenced DFA in Margate Park near Lawrence and Sheridan has separate large- and small-dog areas, double-gated entry, and a doggie drinking fountain.

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
0.38 acres
Hours
6 AM–11 PM
Surface
Grass / dirt

Parking & access

Street parking near Marine Dr; Red line to Lawrence.

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 with double-gated entry and separate large- and small-dog sections; water fountains run spring through summer.
A well-loved lakefront-area run; no food inside, no puppies under 4 months, no female dogs in heat.

Verified off-leash rules

Rules verified · source: Chicago Park District