Dog Control Bylaw and Policy Up for Consultation
Council is proposing changes to the Dog Control Bylaw and Policy, including the designation of on-leash areas and circumstances where dogs may pass through dog prohibited spaces. Residents can make a submission until 12 noon on Monday 23 November 2026.
“The changes respond to feedback from residents, businesses, and the community at large,” says Mayor Craig Rowley.
At present, dogs are not allowed on Seddon Square, Boland Park, the Town Belt and the Waimate Event Centre. But the proposed bylaw and policy would permit on-leash access to these spaces except inside the Event Centre, the tennis court on Seddon Square and the skate park, playground and swimming pool on Boland Park.
In addition, dogs on a leash would be permitted to pass through a dog prohibited area only if they do not stop en route to a reasonable destination, including their owners’ residence.
Council would also retain the ability to temporarily prohibit dogs in cases where there is potential for conflict with people, animals or events.
It is also proposed that the Ministry for Primary Industries Code of Welfare: Dogs and the Animal Welfare Act 1999 be used to set the minimum standards for dog welfare. Council aims to provide a clear and consistent set of requirements, which can help ensure compliance and improve dogs’ wellbeing.
Two other proposed updates clarify requirements for applications and exemptions for a licence to keep more than two dogs. Exemptions would apply to dog related businesses with a resource consent, while NZ Kennel Club members would lose their exempt status.
Shorter than the current versions, the proposed bylaw and policy are more in line with the Dog Control Act 1996. “We're making it easier to understand the requirements,” says Mayor Rowley.
Residents can make submissions at waimatedc.govt.nz/consultations. The consultation site features the proposed bylaw and policy as well as the consultation document, which provides the details of the proposals, maps and key dates.
