Dogs must be under effective control in public places and kept at least 10 metres from children's playground equipment. Learn your responsibilities as a dog owner and how to report a dog attack.
Dogs in public places must be under effective control at all times. A dog is not considered to be under effective control if you are handling more than four dogs at the same time. You should also be able to control your dog in designated off-leash areas.
Under the NSW Companion Animals Act, dogs are prohibited within 10 metres of children's playground equipment, whether they are on or off leash.
Playgrounds are designed to be safe spaces for children and families. Keeping dogs away from these areas helps reduce the risk of incidents and ensures everyone can use our parks comfortably and safely.
Most parks and reserves in North Sydney are dog friendly and provide plenty of opportunities for dogs and their owners to enjoy the outdoors. However, dog owners and walkers are responsible for understanding and following the rules that apply in public places.
If your dog defecates in a public place or on someone else’s property, you must remove the faeces immediately and dispose of it. If you do not clean up after your dog, you may be liable for a maximum penalty of $880.
Following these simple rules help keep shared spaces safe and welcoming for everyone. Council Rangers regularly patrol local parks and issue fines where offences are detected.
Reporting a dog attack
If you witness a dog attack a person or animal, or you have been attacked by a dog yourself, report it to Council Rangers as soon as possible on 9936 8100 or submit a request.
When making a report, provide:
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the location of the incident.
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the date and time it occurred.
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a description of the dog and owner, if known.
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photos or other evidence, where available.
Shared responsibility
Being a responsible pet owner helps everyone enjoy our shared public spaces safely. By following the rules around playgrounds and other restricted areas, dog owners can help create a safer environment for children, pets and the wider community.
For more information about off-leash areas for dogs visit https://www.northsydney.nsw.gov.au/dogs-public-places-2/dogs-public-places-1