Wanneroo Council Considers Major Crackdown on Off-Leash Dogs in Parks
The City of Wanneroo is poised to debate a significant proposal that could dramatically alter where dogs are permitted to roam off-leash across its public spaces. This potential change comes as the council prepares to consider a motion that would make on-lead the default requirement for all public areas, unless specific exemptions are granted.
Proposal to Revert to WA Dog Act Intent
Councillor Helen Berry is spearheading the initiative, which seeks to investigate reverting to the original intent of the WA Dog Act 1976. This legislation mandates that all dogs must be on-lead in public places by default. Cr Berry's motion also requests that the city provide a list of two to three suitable off-leash locations for each suburb, ensuring equitable access for dog owners.
According to Cr Berry, there is a growing perception within the community that dog attacks and other safety incidents involving dogs are increasing. "This perception contributes to heightened concern among residents, particularly those who feel unsafe or uncomfortable around dogs that are off-lead in public spaces," she stated in her motion.
Community Concerns and Historical Context
Cr Berry highlighted that many residents report feeling anxious when approached by off-leash dogs, regardless of the animal's behavior, due to uncertainty about its temperament or the owner's control. "This can affect people’s willingness to use parks and reserves, especially families with young children, older residents, and individuals who have previously experienced incidents involving dogs," she explained.
In 2014, the City of Wanneroo council voted to designate all public reserves, except road and street reserves, as dog exercise areas, allowing off-leash activity in nearly all parks. Since then, the city has added on-lead only areas, including 18 nature reserves late last year after more than 18 months of debate.
Current and Proposed Restrictions
Among the reserves where dogs must be on-lead from March are:
- Lake Gnangara Park
- Quinns Foreshore Reserve
- Koondoola Open Space
- Chancellor Park
City of Wanneroo officials have emphasized that any further changes would require extensive community consultation first. "The city would need to undertake consultation with community members to ensure that any proposed designations are suitable, meet community needs and provide equitable access for dog owners across the city," a staff report noted.
Potential Challenges and Implementation
The staff report also acknowledged potential opposition, stating, "Given that some current off-leash areas may become dog-prohibited areas under the proposed approach, it is likely that some residents may not support the change, particularly where their local park no longer permits off-leash dog exercise and they would be required to travel further."
City administration indicated that significant research, benchmarking, site assessments, and subsequent council consideration would be necessary before any changes could proceed. "Implementation of the proposal would require the city to determine which areas are most appropriate for off-leash dog exercise, and subsequently designate these as official dog exercise areas," they said.
Future Strategies and Enforcement
The city is set to prepare an Animal Exercise Park Strategy in 2026-27 and explore additional dog beaches under the Coastal Management Plan. City officers have recommended that consideration of Cr Berry's proposed changes proceed only after these strategies are completed.
Owners who exercise their dogs in a non-designated dog exercise area can face a $200 on-the-spot fine. Cr Berry's motion is scheduled to be considered and voted on by the council at its meeting on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
