Dog owners in the ACT now have new maps of on and off-leash areas to take their pet dogs for walks and exercise.
The maps have been developed to improve responsible dog ownership and community safety.
Minister for Transport and City Services, Chris Steel said the maps made the rules governing dogs in public places clear, and included some areas where dogs were prohibited altogether.
“Unless otherwise identified on the maps, all public areas are dog on-lead, including street verges and footpaths,” Mr Steel said.
“Playgrounds and barbecue areas remain dog prohibited within 10 metres when in use; sportsgrounds will be off-leash except during formal sporting events; lakes and ponds, unless otherwise signposted, will be dog on-leash areas,” he said.
He said the new maps followed the principle that if you’re walking on a suburban footpath or street you shouldn’t be harassed by a dog off a lead.
“The changes mean that only certain spaces are off-lead including dog parks, certain open spaces, and ovals and sportsgrounds,” Mr Steel said.
“For all other areas, there is a simple message: Keep your dog on a lead, it’s the law.”
He said a new team of six compliance officers was now in operation with the officers targeting off‑leash dogs as a priority in their first six weeks.
“The changes have been designed so that people can feel safe walking, riding or taking young children on our shared paths, open space areas and foreshore areas, while still ensuring significant off-leash areas are available for dog owners who have effective control of their dog,” Mr Steel said.
The new designated dog exercise area maps can be accessed at this PS News link.
