It is important the City provides dog exercise areas and spaces for our residents to take their dogs while also providing dog-free zones to help protect our natural habitat and wildlife, allowing our entire community to be able to safely enjoy our beautiful open spaces and facilities.
Dogs are allowed on-leash in most public places within the city, however residents should refer to the City’s Dog Control Areas Map for prohibited and off-lead areas.
As part of a review, the City launched a survey in late 2023 to obtain feedback from the community to help understand the needs of both dog owners and non-dog owners. Watch this space for the outcomes of the survey.
What is effective dog control?
The City has a number of areas where dogs are permitted off leash but remember you must still have effective control at all times. This means:
- Your dog must be in sight at all times.
- Your dog must respond when called.
- Your dog must be able to hear you at all times.
- Your dog does not rush anyone who doesn’t want the attention from your pet.
A dog rushing up and jumping on someone else could constitute a minor dog attack. It is essential that you control your pet and ensure it isn’t giving other area users any unwanted attention.
If you are not sure, we recommend you keep your dog(s) on a leash at all times. This will always apply in high traffic pedestrian areas like the City Centre, playgrounds, ports ovals while games are on and anywhere else where there are high volumes of people.
Check for signage in the area. Signs will be installed in areas where dogs are permitted off-leash or dogs are prohibited. No signs means the dog(s) must be on-leash.
Dog attacks are serious incidents and effective control is the best way to ensure you are never required to defend yourself and your pet. Training is available for your dog and can help them to socialise well with others and assist if your pet is a little reactive. If you’re not sure we recommend keeping your dog on a leash and help to keep everyone safe.