Keep your dog on a lead

Byron Shire Council is making no apology for issuing fines to people who aren’t keeping their dogs on leads in public places.

In January 2024 Council issued 30 fines for having a dog off-leash, compared to 3 in January 2023.

Byron Shire Mayor, Michael Lyon, said this approach will continue for the rest of the year and if people don’t want to cop a fine, they should put their dog on a lead.

“Some people were upset about receiving a fine, but this could have been easily avoided,” Mayor Lyon said.

“People can expect to see our staff out and about at all hours of the day, seven days a week and they will continue to fine people who are walking their dog off-lead in public areas,” he said.

“We know it is important for people to be able to let their dogs run and walk off the lead and this is the reason Council provide areas where animals do not have to be restrained,” he said.

Byron Shire Council is making no apology for issuing fines to people who aren’t keeping their dogs on leads in public places.

“Not everyone is comfortable around dogs, including other dogs, and it is not appropriate to have dogs unrestrained in neighbourhoods or near places like schools and busy roads and shopping areas.

“There are places in the Byron Shire specifically designated for people who want to walk and exercise their dogs off lead.

“Not all dogs are friendly or well-trained and they can be unpredictable,” Mayor Lyon said.

The NSW Government’s Companion Animals Act sets out the laws and regulations relating to the responsibilities of dog owners and Councils are responsible for enforcing them.

“Last year we allocated an additional $250,000 to enforcement activities, recognising that impact of roaming dogs and other activities, such as illegal camping, have on the broader community not to mention our natural environment,” Mayor Lyon said.

Information on leash-free dog exercise areas in the Byron Shire is on Council’s website.

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