We've updated our dog control rules

We've heard from the community and made changes to our dog control rules for the district that will take effect on 1 August.

Some of the changes could affect where you walk your dog and the times for dog walking, particularly over the peak summer period.

"Changes to our Dog Control Policy and Bylaw come after an extensive review and feedback from the public," says Barry Smedts, our Operations Manager for Community Environment. "Please remember that until we change to the new rules on 1 August this year the current rules still apply."

We have worked hard to make sure we have local rules that are clear and easy to understand for both our residents and visitors. This means having some consistency across the district, such as the dates and times dogs are allowed on some beaches over summer and public holidays. We'll use the time before 1 August to update signage and spread the word about the new rules before they come into effect.

The new policy and bylaw strikes a balance between different community needs and preferences. We have requirements under the Dog Control Act 1996 both about community health and safety, and providing exercise and recreational opportunities for dogs and their owners. We've also considered the need to protect wildlife such as dotterel and kiwi.

You can read a version of the policy and bylaw here that shows changes from what was proposed to the community late last year.

For further updates you can go to our review page here.

Also if you own a dog it will need to be registered or re-registered by 1 July 2016. We’ll be posting out reminders about registering your dog shortly. You can pay online, or come to our offices or go towww.tcdc.govt.nz/dogregistration

ENDS

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