Dog Policy
We know how much you love bringing your furry friends to the Big Four Arts Festival, and we appreciate your help in keeping the event safe and fun for everyone.
All dogs attending the festival must be registered and meet the requirements below, with the exception of service animals.
Please note that emotional support animals and therapy dogs, while welcome at the festival, are not classified as service animals under the ADA and do not have the same legal right of access to public spaces. These dogs must follow all registration requirements and guidelines below.
We Follow Waterfront Park Rules
Big Four Arts Festival is hosted by Waterfront Park, and we follow their pet policy. Per Waterfront Park rules, pets on leashes are welcome in the park but are not permitted on the Big Four Bridge, playgrounds, fountains, or the Splash Park. Service animals are allowed everywhere in the park.
For the most current park rules, please visit the Waterfront Park website at ourwaterfront.org/frequently-asked-questions.
Age Requirement
Dogs must be at least 4 months old to attend the festival. This is the minimum age for rabies vaccination and licensing in Jefferson County, and we require both for entry. No exceptions.
Dog License and Rabies Vaccination
Jefferson County requires all dogs four months of age or older to be licensed and vaccinated against rabies. License and vaccination tags must be attached to your dog’s collar or harness at all times.
If your dog is not yet licensed, you can obtain a license online at
louisvilleky.gov/government/animal-services/services/license-your-pet or in person at Metro Animal Services.
Registration Required
All dogs attending the festival must be registered. You can register in advance online or at the gate on the day of the event.
To register, you will need to provide:
● Your full name, phone number, email address, and mailing address
● Your dog’s name, breed, color/markings, approximate weight, age, and a clear photo of your dog’s face
● Your dog’s current license number
● Your dog’s current rabies tag number
● Date of most recent rabies vaccination
● Name of veterinarian or clinic that administered vaccination
Pre-Registration (Recommended)
Register online before the event using the form below. You will receive a confirmation email with your dog’s information. Print this confirmation and bring it with you to the festival. You must present it at the gate to receive your dog wristband.
Day-Of Registration
If you do not pre-register, you may register at the gate. You will need to provide all required information and sign the liability waiver before entry. Please allow extra time.
Dog Wristband Required
After your registration is verified at the gate, you will receive a neon green wristband and a set of complimentary dog waste bags. This wristband must remain visible on your wrist at all times while your dog is in the festival area. Dogs accompanied by someone without a visible wristband may be asked to leave.
Service Animals
Service animals as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are welcome at the festival. You are not required to register or provide documentation.
Why get a wristband?
We require all festival attendees with pet dogs to check in at the gate and receive a wristband. For service animal handlers, this is optional but recommended. Here’s why:
Our staff and security will be monitoring for unregistered dogs throughout the event. Any dog without a visible wristband on the handler will be approached and asked to verify their registration or status. With a wristband, you won’t be stopped or questioned again after check-in. It’s a simple way to enjoy the festival without interruption.
At the gate:
For service animal handlers, entering the event takes just a moment. Staff will ask the two questions permitted under the ADA:
1. Is this a service animal required because of a disability?
2. What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?
Once verified, you’ll receive your wristband and you’re set for the day. The wristband is not required for ADA covered dogs but it helps our volunteers know you have been admitted to the event and do not need to register your dog.
Please note: Emotional support animals, therapy dogs, and comfort animals are not considered service animals under the ADA, even with documentation from a medical provider. If your dog provides emotional support but is not trained to perform a specific task related to a disability, you will be asked to complete the full registration for the safety of our guests.
Voluntary Contact Information (Optional)
● Name
● Phone number or email address
● Brief description of your dog (breed, color) for our records
We encourage service animal handlers to provide contact information so we can assist you during the event and reach you in case of emergency.
Requirements for All Dogs
● Must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times
● Must be under the handler’s control at all times
● Handler must clean up after their dog immediately (complimentary waste bags provided at check-in and at stations throughout the grounds)
● Must exit immediately if the dog shows signs of aggression or distress
● Handler should be wearing a valid admission wristband
Please see details on dog waste.
Additional Requirements for Registered Dogs
● Must be at least 4 months old
● Must provide proof of current rabies vaccination and license
● Must complete registration and sign the liability waiver
This includes (Pets, Therapy Dogs, ESAs)
Waste Cleanup
Dog waste is a slip and fall hazard. All handlers are responsible for cleaning up after their dog immediately. Complimentary waste bags are provided at check-in and available at waste stations throughout the festival grounds. If you need additional bags, ask any staff member or visit any waste station.
Failure to clean up after your dog may result in removal from the event.
Where Dogs Are Allowed
Dogs are welcome in the park area only. Per Waterfront Park rules, dogs are not permitted on the Big Four Bridge, playgrounds, fountains, or the Splash Park. Service animals are permitted in all areas.
Assumption of Risk and Release of Liability
By registering your dog and attending the festival, you acknowledge and agree to the following:
I understand that attending an outdoor event with other animals and large crowds involves inherent risks, including but not limited to the risk of injury from animal bites, scratches, or other animal behavior, as well as hazards such as animal waste on walking surfaces. I voluntarily assume all risks associated with bringing my dog to or being in the presence of dogs at Big Four Arts Festival.
I agree that I am solely responsible for my dog’s behavior at all times. I agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Big Four Arts Festival, its organizers, sponsors, vendors, volunteers, and Waterfront Park from any and all claims, damages, losses, or expenses (including attorney’s fees) arising from my dog’s actions or my participation in the event with my dog.
I certify that my dog is current on rabies vaccination, is properly licensed, is at least 4 months old, is not aggressive, and has no history of biting or injuring people or other animals.
I understand that Big Four Arts Festival reserves the right to require any dog to leave the event at any time for any reason.
No Wristband, No Dog
Dogs will not be permitted in the festival area unless accompanied by someone wearing a valid dog wristband. No exceptions unless noted above.