Sound Transit is piloting an updated pet policy on its buses and trains between now and Spring 2027. During the pilot, pet dogs will be permitted on board if they are leashed, well-behaved, and controlled by their handler. All other pets must remain in an enclosed carrier. As always, service animals are permitted in compliance with the ADA.
Prior to the pilot, dogs and other pets were only allowed on Sound Transit buses and trains in a carrier. In July 2025, the Sound Transit Board approved Motion No. M2025-34, directing the agency to consider updating the rules to allow leashed dogs. This motion was motivated by the opening of Marymoor Village station as part of the Downtown Redmond Link Extension in May 2025. Marymoor Village station is next to Marymoor Park, a 640-arce park which includes a 40-arce off-leash dog area.
Will this pilot impact the passenger experience on Sound Transit? Probably not. In a presentation to the Executive Committee before the motion was approved, then-Acting Executive Director of Security & Fare Engagement Brian de Place acknowledged that passengers already take leashed dogs on Sound Transit buses and trains. While doing so did violate the rules, de Place noted “if the dog is leashed and generally under control, security will not engage with that passenger unless there is an actual disturbance”. In the year prior to this meeting, Sound Transit security only received 8 calls about pets.
There are few other notes pet owners should be aware of before bringing their leashed dogs onboard:
If you encounter an aggressive animal or other issues, call or text Sound Transit security: (206) 398-5268. In an emergency, call 911.
