Safety

Park Problem – Who to Call

Call 911 immediately if there is a crime in progress or any other emergency that requires a police, fire, or medical response. If a situation requires the police, but does not need an immediate response, call 415-553-0123. Examples of non-emergency situations include noise complaints, suspicious activities, or a homeless/nuisance- related issues.

If there is a problem in the park that is not an emergency, call the Park Rangers at 415-242-6390. Use this number for park code violations, such as noise or dogs in the People Only Area.

Emergency / Crimes In-Progress: 911
Number to use if calling 911 from a cell phone: 415-553-8090
SFPD Non Emergency line: 415-553-0123
Park Station Tip line: 415-731-2865
Operation Outreach Homeless Issues: 415-309-0806
Park District Permits: Officer Davies: 415-242-3032

San Francisco Recreation and Parks: 415-831-2700
Report a Maintenance Issue, Vandalism or Graffiti: Call 311 or click here or use mobile app
Park Rangers: 415-242-6390

Coyote Pupping Season

As we hit the dog days of summer, it means that we’re in the midst of coyote pupping season. While coyotes are generally wary of humans, parent coyotes may become territorial if you or your pet stumbles upon their den.

To foster a safe coexistence between yourself and our natural neighbors, please take the following precautions:

  • Never feed coyotes or any wildlife.
  • Keep dogs on leashes in our parks, unless in a designated off-leash dog play area.
  • Only admire coyotes from a distance.

If you encounter a coyote, slowly back away carrying any small children or pets. Do not run. You may also scare the coyote away by appearing large and making loud noises.

A May 25 article in the New York Times about coyotes in San Francisco points out that, “Coyotes are native to California and were widespread in the early 1990s, but local residents” wanted them removed and “they vanished after a government-sponsored campaign that encouraged residents to poison or shoot the animals.”

The article goes on to say that the problem is the humans. “Fisherman leave bait on piers, and picnickers leave scraps in parks. Trash cans spill over with detritus that the coyotes relish. Over time, the coyotes have come to associate humans with food.”