Council votes to allow dogs on lead in more public places

Dogs on lead will be allowed in more parks and open spaces across Redlands Coast after Council voted to remove some bans and restrictions in popular locations.

Redland City Deputy Mayor Julie Talty said the amendments to the Register of Animals in Public Places, which come into effect immediately, took into account significant feedback from the community.

“Council received 348 submissions on the proposed changes to the register during the 27-day consultation period late last year,” she said.

“There were two very distinct opinions in the community – those who believe dogs are members of their family and should be able to go where they go, and others who have concerns relating to safety and hygiene when people don’t pick up after their dogs.

“Council has to take into account the safety of all members of the public, as well as dogs, and I believe the amendments voted on today balance these expectations with those of people who want to explore our naturally wonderful open spaces with their pets.”

Cr Talty said dogs on lead would now be allowed at any time in Beth Boyd Park, along Redland Bay Esplanade, in Yeo Park, along the foreshore at Victoria Point and, for a six-month trial, in Wellington Point Reserve.

“Council decided to trial dogs on lead in Wellington Point Reserve as there was an even number of responses for and against the change,” she said.

“Wellington Point Reserve is one of the most popular locations in our city for both residents and visitors so Council wants to ensure we make the right decision in relation to this area.

“During the trial period Council compliance officers will continue to patrol the reserve to make sure dogs are on lead, including along the beaches and out to King Island during low tide.”

Cr Talty said that, as a result of the community’s feedback, Council would not be removing the ban on dogs at Swamp Box in Capalaba.

“A lot of people told us they do not want dogs there because it is a significant area for flora and fauna and they don’t want it disturbed,” she said.

“Considering there are other spaces nearby where dogs are allowed, the prohibition on dogs will remain in this location.”

Cr Talty said that, in areas where dogs were now allowed, they must be on a lead at all times, must not go within 10 metres of any playground and must not enter bathing reserves.

Previously, dogs were not allowed at Wellington Point Reserve and Yeo Park between 9am-4pm on weekends and public holidays, or on the Wilson Street foreshore at any time on weekends or public holidays.

“The amendments mean dogs can now be in these places, but we encourage all dog owners to be mindful of everyone else around them and keep their dogs on a lead at all times,” Cr Talty said.

AMENDMENT DETAILS

Dogs on lead will be allowed at any time at the following locations:

There will be a six-month trial of dogs on lead at any time in Wellington Point Reserve, including in the picnic and playground areas and on a small area of the designated swimming beach. Dogs are still prohibited on bathing reserves.

The amendments also included an administrative change in the wording around the prohibition of horses, camels and donkeys along the foreshore/seashore in front of swimming enclosures.

The Register of Animals in Public Places is a requirement of Local Law No. 2 (Animal Management) 2015.