DCC Manager Environment Health and Animal Services Ros MacGill says there are several key changes which owners need to be aware of in the city's new Dog Control Policy and Bylaw.
Dogs would still be allowed off a leash on DCC-owned sportsgrounds in areas not marked as playing fields, but they would have to be on a leash when games were being played.
They would also be allowed in DCC-owned cemeteries while on a leash, although this would be reviewed in 12 months, Ms MacGill said.
Restrictions in beach areas also varied. Dogs would be permitted on a leash in paved areas of St Clair Esplanade and must also be on a leash east of the main access track at Smaills beach.
The areas around Brighton beach where dogs are prohibited had also been extended. However, the walking track from the Brighton bridge to the start of the beach was now open to dogs, allowing them access to the Otokia River.
Dogs would also be permitted off the leash on Peninsula Beach Rd in Port Chalmers; however, in all areas dogs had to be placed on a leash within 20m of protected wildlife.
Ms MacGill said dogs could still be exercised off the leash in a wide range of areas, including Waikouaiti beach, Bethunes Gully (on leash in the picnic area), Whare Flat, the Ocean Beach Domain and at the seven dog exercise parks.
She said it was important owners remembered dogs had to be under control at all times, whether or not they were on a leash, and owners had to clean up after them.
Dog registration renewal forms were being sent out and they would include an information pamphlet outlining the changes. Signs were being placed in all the affected areas and Animal Services Officers would be out and about advising dog owners of the new rules.
