EVANSTON, IL - Pet owners eagerly awaiting the reopening of the Evanston Dog Beach are encouraged to prepare now to ensure they’re able to enjoy the beach with their pet this spring.

The City’s Parks & Recreation Department, Public Works Agency and Facilities Management Division have been working towards reopening the dog beach in 2023 following several years of high Lake Michigan water levels. The City tentatively plans to reopen the dog beach for public use on March 1, 2023 if weather and conditions permit.

“The Evanston Dog Beach is a wonderful amenity for our community, improving the quality of life for both people and pets,” said Recreation Manager Tim Carter. “We’re looking forward to welcoming our four-legged companions back to the lakefront this spring, and are encouraging all dog owners to act now to ensure their pets’ vaccinations and pet licenses are up to date.”

What to do now
Get a Pet License
In order to purchase a dog beach pass, pet owners will need to provide proof of a pet license from the city where they reside, or provide proof that their city does not require one.

2023 Evanston pet license applications were due on December 31, 2022, but may still be submitted without penalty. Community members can purchase an Evanston pet license online, by mail, or can purchase a license in person at the City Collector’s Office at the Morton Civic Center, 2100 Ridge Ave. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Pet owners should allow up to two weeks to receive their pet license for purchases made online, and must provide a copy of their pet’s current rabies vaccination. The annual cost is $10 if the pet is neutered or spayed and $15 if not altered.

Ensure your pet is up to date on its vaccines
The Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control requires that the City verify a pet’s vaccination information before issuing a dog beach pass. To receive a dog beach pass when they become available, pets must:

Have current vaccinations or antibodies for Rabies, Distemper (CFV), Hepatitis (Canine Adenovirus-2), Para-influenza (CPIV), Parvovirus (CPV), Leptospirosis and Bordetella (kennel cough)
Have had a negative fecal test for internal parasites within the past 12 months at the time of pass application
Pet owners may need to schedule an appointment with their veterinarian to receive or verify proof of vaccinations using the provided verification form.

Sign up for Dog Beach updates
The City encourages community members to sign up for Dog Beach notifications to find out when and where dog beach passes will be available for purchase, and to get updates on dog beach opening. The City anticipates that dog beach passes will be available for purchase in mid-February.

The Evanston Dog Beach is located just north of the Church Street boat launch facility, where Church Street meets Lake Michigan.

For more information about the Evanston Dog Beach, please call/text 847-448-4311 or simply dial 311 in Evanston.