Dog off-leash guidelines
Location
Cost
Milestones
- Community-wide consultation13 Dec 2022We engaged with community to understand the community’s views on dogs in public spaces, including the key issues.
- Reviewing Feedback1 Apr 2023We have reviewed feedback received from the community and provided a full report on what we heard. The feedback was presented to the Community Panel in the next stage of the program to help them make informed decisions.
- Community Panel sessions6 Jun 2023We worked with a community panel - a select group of residents from different backgrounds and interests - to develop the principles underpinning the Dog Off-Leash Guidelines
- Development of Dog Off-Leash Guidelines29 Feb 2024We will develop Draft Guidelines in response to the recommendations made by the Community Panel.
- Community engagement on Draft Guidelines30 Apr 2024We will check in with you to see if we've got the Draft Guidelines right. We will also be asking for your feedback on any proposed changes to dog off leash areas.
- Reviewing Feedback1 May 2024We will review your feedback and report back to you on what we heard.
- Finalising and adopting the Guidelines31 May 2024The Dog Off-Leash Guidelines will be updated in response to feedback received and presented to Council for adoption.
Why are we doing this?
Background: there are over 8,000 registered dogs living in Port Phillip. Many of our public spaces and beaches provide space for dogs to be off-leash, however we have heard from our community that they want more dog off-leash areas, and that there are too many dog off-leash areas.
City growth: our City is also growing, and with limited public space and an increasing population, we need clear guidelines to plan the best ways to accommodate our residents and their pets, without impacting other park and beach users.
The impact
We want to make sure that any changes are based on evidence and community need. That’s why restrictions at all current dog off leash parks and beaches will remain as they are until the Guidelines have been developed with community input.
Objectives
To understand the needs of the community, and to develop guidelines that provide clear direction on the provision, distribution, design, and management of off-leash areas in public open spaces.
Next steps
In the coming months, we will develop a set of draft guidelines underpinned by the principles developed with the Community Panel. Once the draft guidelines are developed, they will be shared with the community for further feedback towards the end of 2023.
How to get involved
Stay Informed: Register your interest on our Have You Say page to receive project updates and notifications for the next phase of community consultation.