Waimate District Council has received several recent complaints relating to dogs being off leash in Garlands and Naylors Tracks, places not designated dog exercise areas.
Council stresses that under the Dog Control Bylaw, all public places in the Waimate District are classified as controlled public areas, where dogs may go when on a leash.
Exceptions to this are prohibited dog areas, where dogs are not allowed without an exemption and dog exercise areas, where dogs are not required to be on a leash (but must be under continuous effective control of the owner or person in charge).
Regulatory and Compliance Group Manager Dylan Murray said Council has not issued any fines yet but has the power to do so should some owners continue to act irresponsibly.
“Our first action is to educate and encourage dog owners, before enforcement,” Dylan said.
“While owners may believe their dog is friendly, not all people are comfortable having dogs run up to them, and those people have the right to feel safe in public areas.”
“A responsible dog owner knows where dogs are prohibited and where they can be on or off leash. If in doubt, keep your dog on a leash.”
For more information about the Dog Control Bylaw go to waimatedc.govt.nz/services/dogs.
