Bega Valley Shire Council is preparing to amend its Companion Animals Management Policy with a number of dog off-leash areas reviewed.
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At Wednesday's meeting, a revised procedure based on submissions to the draft report publicised last year, is being presented.
The four main changes noted include an additional leash free area at south Cuttagee Beach; increasing the dog prohibited area at Wallaga Lake entrance; reducing the size of the dog prohibited area at Kianinny Reserve; and providing river access at the Old Bega Racecourse.
Council officers report 44 submissions were received to the draft exhibited procedures, 27 written submissions and 17 via the "Have Your Say" social media platform.
Among the submissions were requests for potential time-share approaches at some popular areas; more and safer off-leash swimming opportunities; improved enforcement of dog owners ignoring restrictions or posted signage; and consideration of shorebird protections at Wallaga Lake.
Council staff also note a request for a leash free area at North Tura Beach in the location commonly known as Dolphin Cove.
"Council officers are aware of the current practice of treating this as a leash free area, including northward past the National Parks and Wildlife Service sign advising that dogs are prohibited. This area is very popular in summer with numbers of dog conflicts recorded. For these reasons it is considered inappropriate as an off leash area."
NSW legislation prohibits all dogs - whether leashed or not - from within 10 metres of any children's play area; within 10m of public food preparation/consumption areas; school grounds and child care areas.
For other locations such as public recreation area, swimming spots, shopping centres, and wildlife protection areas, council or other authorities have some scope for their own determination.
In addition, dogs must be kept on a lead at all times when in public places except where a sign says otherwise.
"The proposed Procedure seeks to improve the social and cultural opportunities for dog owners to utilise public land in a responsible manner," the staff report reads.
"This is reflected in the introduction of more leash free areas, while improving management and enforcement of dog prohibited areas, particularly through removal of seasonal and timed restrictions at locations other than patrolled beaches.
"This Procedure also seeks to uniformly balance the increasing need to enjoy public amenity, protect habitat and provide safe areas for dog owners."
Council meets from 2pm Wednesday, May 8, in the Bega Civic Centre, Zingel Place, Bega.