Responsible Dog Ownership

Dog owners in Paraburdoo, Onslow, Tom Price and Pannawonica are required to keep their dogs under effective control in public areas at all times. This ensures the safety of the community, other pets and local wildlife.

Legal Requirements – Dog Act 1976

Under Section 31 – Control of Dogs in Public Places:

• Dogs must be on a leash, held by a person capable of controlling them, or securely tethered with a suitable chain, cord, or harness.

• Off-leash is only permitted in approved dog exercise areas.

Approved Off-Leash Areas

Owners must maintain effective control even in off-leash zones. Approved off-leash areas are as follows:

 You may also take your dog outside of these townsites and exercise them off lead, as long as a competent and responsible person liable for the control of the dog is in close proximity. That person must be capable of controlling the dog and carrying a leash, with which he or she is capable of securing the dog if necessary.

Dog owners must pay attention to signage and use the bags provided in the dog tidy dispensers.

In the event that the above off leash dog exercise areas are being used by sporting and community groups, consideration needs to be given to ensure your dog is kept under your control during these times. 

Places where dogs are prohibited in the Shire of Ashburton include:

• A public building (unless permitted by a sign)
• A theatre or picture gardens
• All food premises and food transport vehicles
• A public swimming pool
• A public toilet block or changing room
• A cemetery, unless otherwise provided for in the local governments local law relating to cemeteries.

These areas are subject to any written law and any law of the Commonwealth about assistance animals as defined in the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Commonwealth) section 9(2).

Enforcement

Rangers conduct regular patrols and provide education. Non-compliance, including verbal abuse of Rangers, may result in a $200 on-the-spot fine or further enforcement action.

For assistance, contact [email protected] or call (09) 9188 4444.

Learn more about responsible dog ownership here