Dog Control Policy and Bylaw

The Council reviews its Dog Control Policy and Bylaw every 10 years. This is to make sure that the documents are still meeting the needs of our community.

Why do we have a Dog Control Policy and Bylaw?

These rules help ensure responsible dog ownership and a safe, enjoyable environment for everyone. When setting the Policy and Bylaw, the Council considers:
✔️ Minimising danger, distress, and nuisance from dogs
✔️ Keeping public spaces, especially those used by children, safe from uncontrolled dogs
✔️ Balancing community safety with the need for dogs to exercise and socialise

What’s the difference between the Policy and the Bylaw?

• The Dog Control Policy sets out how dogs should be managed in our district.
• The Dog Control Bylaw puts these rules into law, covering things like where dogs can go, how they should be housed, and nuisance control.

What are the proposed changes?

The changes proposed in these documents are for increased clarity relating to disability assist dogs and designated dog exercise and leash control areas as well as other minor and technical amendments and a reformat to be more readable and consistent with plain language requirements.

How to Provide Feedback

Your feedback matters! Help shape the future of dog control in our district by sharing your views. You can give feedback by:

• Online: Click here to fill out our online feedback form
• Physical Forms: These can be picked up from Main office, 29 Bowler Avenue, Gore or the Mataura Service Centre/Library and dropped back off. Or posted to: Dog Poilcy and Bylaw, Gore District Council, P O Box 8, Gore, 9740

What Happens After the Consultation?

Once the consultation period closes on 23 April, all feedback will be reviewed and considered by the Council. We’ll then update the policy and bylaw as needed, and the final versions will be presented to the Council for approval at a Council Meeting in May. We’ll keep you updated on any changes through this page.