Dog owners in Victoria's Baw Baw Shire will face stricter leash requirements following the implementation of a new Dog Control Order on Tuesday. The council's updated rules necessitate that pets be kept on a lead and "brought under effective control" in a wider range of public spaces, including some areas previously designated as off-leash.
The new regulations apply when dogs are within 20 meters of organized sporting events, public meetings, or children's play and exercise equipment areas. Permanent barbecue and picnic areas are also included unless they are enclosed by fencing to exclude dogs.
While rules in designated on-leash areas remain unchanged, the order may require owners to leash their dogs even within fenced dog parks if these areas are too close to zones requiring increased supervision. For instance, St Phillack Reserve in Rawson, formerly an off-leash area, is now classified as on-leash due to its proximity to an unfenced children's playground. Residents seeking an off-leash space in Rawson can utilize Dunstan Reserve.
Baw Baw Council's director of infrastructure and environment services, James Robinson, stated that the rule changes were implemented to enhance public safety. He emphasized that dog owners hold ultimate responsibility for their pets, especially in off-leash areas, and must remain vigilant based on the dog, environment, and situation.
Robinson further explained that the proximity of St Phillack Reserve to an unfenced children's playground posed an unacceptable risk to public safety. He clarified that the presence of seating within a park does not negate the leash requirement if the area is not designated as off-leash.
Penalties for non-compliance with the new order range from written warnings and infringement notices to potential court appearances, depending on the severity of the infraction.