Updated dog control rules come into play today

Our Council's new dog control rules take effect today, 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 Community Environment Manager.

"If you have any doubt about what the rules are for the area you walk your dog, we have put together a summary of each area on our website."

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.

The new policy and bylaw strike 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 find summaries of different areas and the full Dog Control Policy and Dog Control Bylaw on our website www.tcdc.govt.nz/dogs

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