Sound Transit is testing a pilot through Spring 2027 to collect data and inform the development of a permanent pet policy
Friday, November 6, 2026
The pilot will collect operational, safety, and accessibility data plus employee feedback to inform the development of a permanent pet policy.
The success of the pilot will be determined by using operational metrics.
During the pilot, dogs may travel in a carrier or on a short leash, while cats and other small pets must be transported in secure carriers.
Riders need to maintain control of their pets, clean up after them, and ensure that they do not occupy seats or block aisles or doors.
Aggressive animals are never allowed.
Rules for service animals remain unchanged and in accordance with ADA requirements.
Signage outlining the pilot guidelines will be posted at Sound Transit facilities in the coming weeks to help inform riders about the updated rules.
A comprehensive list of updates can be found on Sound Transit’s website.
Signage outlining the pilot guidelines will be posted at Sound Transit facilities in the coming weeks to help inform riders about the updated rules.
A comprehensive list of updates can be found on Sound Transit’s website.
These pilot guidelines apply to Link light rail, Sounder trains, and ST Express buses.
Throughout the pilot, Sound Transit will monitor facilities, maintenance data, and security reports to assess how the guidelines perform in daily operations.
Throughout the pilot, Sound Transit will monitor facilities, maintenance data, and security reports to assess how the guidelines perform in daily operations.
Riders needing to report an active onboard issue can contact Sound Transit Security by phone or text at (206) 398-5268. Our team is sniffing out the best path forward as we work to improve the experience for both our two-legged and four-legged riders alike.
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2 comments:
Service animals yes. Pets no, unless they're in a carrier. Other cities have studied this and implemented policy around pets on trains. Why is the RTA spending our money on a study that's already been done?
My dog and I have used the light rail to commute to SLU twice a week for over a year now so this comes as a bit of a surprise. I was under the impression Sound Transit made the decision to allow dogs back in 2025 when it extended to Marymoor Park but, according to another news site, they were supposed to be in carriers. I've been riding since the expansion to Northgate and I don't think I've ever seen a dog in a carrier... This pilot should already be policy, especially since they let humans block the doors & aisles, lay down across multiple seats, and make messes.
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