Billings Dogs Could Be Allowed in City Parks Soon

It's one of those weird laws that's been on the books for years. Back in the 60's, the city of Billings passed an ordinance prohibiting people to take their dogs to city parks.

Believe it or not, the fine for taking your dog to a park in Billings is nearly the same as getting busted for drunk driving.  A first time offense could land you a $300 ticket, with $500 for subsequent offenses.

Of course, everyone knows this law is ridiculous.  Sure, people should clean up after their pets in public spaces.  But the city shouldn't prohibit dogs from the parks that we pay for (an extra $2 million in taxes to maintain).  Finally, some city leaders are trying to change this insane law that's rarely enforced.

The city will hold a public meeting Tuesday at Zimmerman Park to "open discussion" about whether or not dogs should be allowed in municipal parks.  Being allowed to take your dog to a publicly funded park, isn't that American?  So is this, after the meeting next week, the change could be presented to the Billings City Council.  Of course, they'll have more meetings.  Eventually, they'll have the final say.