Tide turning on responsible dog ownership in Byron Shire

Published on 19 September 2023

Ten months on from the launch of Council’s Dogs in Public Spaces strategy, increased enforcement and more education and signage is helping people to do the right thing when they’re out and about with their dogs and at our Shire’s dog beaches and foreshore areas.

“We still have plenty of work to do but I am pleased to report our rangers are starting to see shifting behaviours and greater awareness about dogs in our public spaces,” Council’s Manager Public and Environmental Services, Sarah Nagel, said.

Between March and May this year, Animal Enforcement Officers issued 53 percent more animal-related fines than between the same dates in 2022.

“Our fines are up because we’ve been rotating shifts for our staff to actively patrol hot spots, dog prohibited areas and dog exercise areas at different times throughout the day – on foot and in cars,” Ms Nagel said.

“Whilst we cannot be everywhere at once, our approach is to ensure our patrols include an element of surprise.   

“Dog owners are surprised to see us early in the morning or late in the evening and it’s a good opportunity for us to get our messages out to a wider cross-section of the community,” she said. 

Council also recently installed footpath stencils in Byron Bay, Brunswick Heads, Ocean Shores, Bangalow and Mullumbimby to increase awareness, with more coming in other locations around the Shire.

“The footpath stencils are easy for everyone to understand including visitors who are here with their dogs,” Ms Nagel said.

It’s encouraging more involvement from the whole community who are calling out bad behaviours.

“We have also been busy on the education front with our dedicated Animal Education and Enforcement Officer doing a great job through the school education program,” she said.

“It’s pleasing to see positive results and shifting behaviours in this first important year of our 10-year strategy; however, the most vital part is that dog owners must be responsible” she said.

More information on Dogs in Public Spaces is on Council’s website.