Bellevue dog owners can bring their leashed pets aboard the 2 Line without a carrier under a new Sound Transit pilot that covers the agency's entire system.
Sound Transit announced Oct. 28 that it launched a pilot program allowing dogs to ride on a short leash across Link light rail, Sounder trains and ST Express buses. The trial runs through spring 2027.
That means every 2 Line station in Bellevue is included.
Before the pilot, Sound Transit rules required all pets to travel inside small carriers. Dogs are the exception under the new guidelines. They can ride on a short leash or in a carrier, as long as the handler keeps them under control. Cats and other small pets still must stay in secure carriers.
What the rules require
Riders must clean up after their animals and keep them off seats. Pets cannot block aisles or doors. Aggressive animals are prohibited.
Pet travel is not guaranteed. Sound Transit staff may restrict it when safety, sanitation or overcrowding concerns exist, according to the agency's rules page. Violating the policy could result in a code of conduct violation or a response from Sound Transit Police.
The board motion that authorized the pilot directed that no fare be required for pets. Rules for service animals remain unchanged under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
How the board got here
The Sound Transit Board approved Motion M2025-34 on July 24, 2025, directing the agency's chief executive officer to research and update rider rules for pets. Board Chair Dave Somers signed the motion.
One factor: the 2 Line's extension to Redmond, which added Marymoor Village station. That stop sits next to Marymoor Park and its 40-acre off-leash dog area, according to the board motion. The motion also cited transit connections to several dog parks, including Magnuson Park and Denny Park in Seattle and Marina Beach Park in Edmonds.
Seattle Transit Blog reported that passengers were already bringing leashed dogs aboard in violation of the old rules. The blog cited a July 2025 presentation in which then-Acting Executive Director of Security & Fare Engagement Brian de Place acknowledged the practice. According to the blog, Sound Transit security received only eight calls about pets in the year before that meeting.
What happens next
Sound Transit said it will collect safety and accessibility data, employee feedback, maintenance records and security reports throughout the pilot. Those operational metrics will determine whether the agency adopts a permanent pet policy.
The agency said signs explaining the guidelines will be posted at Sound Transit facilities within weeks of the Oct. 28 announcement. Riders who encounter an aggressive animal or other issue onboard can call or text Sound Transit Security at 206-398-5268.
