Consultation on Dog Control Bylaw to Begin in Hurunui

The Hurunui District Council has adopted the statement of proposal and summary of information for a revised Dog Control Policy and Dog Control Bylaw, enabling public consultation on the proposal to begin.

The Dog Control Act 1996 requires all councils to have a policy on dogs and enables councils to make bylaws to enforce the policy. The bylaws are required to be reviewed every 10 years, so the current 2008 policy and bylaw are being reviewed concurrently as required by the Act.

Hurunui District Council’s Regulatory Services Manager, Judith Batchelor, says that now the statement of proposal has been adopted by the council, we need the public to have their say on important issues such as where they are permitted to take their dog.

“The special consultative procedure can now begin, and we hope that a wide cross-section of the community get involved in this consultation. It is important that members of the public are enabled to have their voices heard on this issue.”

A major feature of the Proposed Bylaw is the introduction of a responsible dog ownership programme, which would apply only to urban dogs and aims to reward responsible dog owners. The proposal also includes minor updates to the areas where dogs are prohibited, required to be on-leash or able to be exercised off-leash.

Mayor Winton Dalley says it is essential the district has clear guidelines when it comes to dog control.

“I encourage residents in the district to get involved in the consultation process and have their say on this proposed bylaw which will become crucial in the management of dogs in our district,” says Mr Dalley.

The proposed bylaw and further information on how to make a submission can be accessed by visiting a council library or service centre, or on the council’s website: www.hurunui.govt.nz.

Submissions can be made until Wednesday 1 August 2018.

ENDS

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