There are now more areas in Monash for dog owners to take their pets off-leash, with 14 new sites across the municipality leash-free.
The new sites are:
- Larpent Reserve, Glen Waverley
- Highview Park, Glen Waverley
- Jordan Reserve, Chadstone
- Mayfield Park, Mount Waverley
- Brandon Park Reserve, Glen Waverley
- Jells Road Reserve, Wheelers Hill
- Wellington Reserve, Mulgrave
- Whitehaven Crescent Reserve, Mulgrave
- Fregon Reserve, Clayton
- Davies Reserve, Oakleigh South
- Bowman Street Reserve, Mount Waverley
- Finch Street Reserve, Notting Hill
- F E Hunt Reserve, Oakleigh East
- Powerlines area, Legana Street to Toombah Street, Mount Waverley.
Eight other off-leash areas have been either expanded or reduced. There are now a total of 45 dog off-leash areas in Monash.
The new and changed areas are part of the Monash Dog Off-Leash Policy, which was endorsed in November 2022 after extensive community consultation.
Like other councils, Monash is experiencing population growth and pressure on our public open spaces. With a continued increase in the number of registered dogs in Monash, planning and managing off-leash areas for people to walk and exercise their dogs is important.
Mayor Cr Tina Samardzija said it was great to see the spaces open for dog owners and their pets.
"The community told us they want more off-leash areas in the City of Monash, and it is fantastic that Council has been able to provide these 14 new sites for dogs and their owners to use," Cr Samardzija said.
Dog owners must comply with Council's Dog Control Order that requires them, when in an off-leash area, to carry a short leash, be able to bring their dog under control promptly, remain in constant sight of their dog, and to pick up after them.
Council will initially take an educative approach to enforcing these laws. Following that, a person may be issued with a fine.
All dogs in Monash aged over three months must be registered, and registrations must be renewed annually by 10 April.
Microchipping is also mandatory, and satisfactory proof is required. Residents should make sure pets are microchipped by a National Pet Register agent.
