Waimate District Council Reviews Dog Control Bylaw and Policy

Waimate District Council has opened public consultation on proposed changes to its Dog Control Bylaw and Dog Control Policy. Residents can make a submission until 12 noon on Monday, 23 November 2026.

The proposals cover the designation of on-leash areas and the circumstances in which dogs may pass through dog-prohibited spaces. Council says the proposed bylaw and policy are shorter than the current versions and more in line with the Dog Control Act 1996.

Proposed On-Leash Access to Public Spaces

At present, dogs are not allowed on Seddon Square, Boland Park, the Town Belt or the Waimate Event Centre. The proposed bylaw and policy would permit on-leash access to these spaces.

Dogs would still be prohibited inside the Event Centre, on the Seddon Square tennis court, and in the skate park, playground and swimming pool at Boland Park.

The proposal also allows dogs on a leash to pass through a dog-prohibited area, but only if they do not stop en route to a reasonable destination, such as their owner's residence. Council would retain the ability to temporarily prohibit dogs where there is potential for conflict with people, animals or events.

Welfare Standards and Multi-Dog Licences

Council proposes that the Ministry for Primary Industries Code of Welfare: Dogs and the Animal Welfare Act 1999 be used to set the minimum standards for dog welfare in the district. It says the aim is a clear and consistent set of requirements that can help compliance and improve dogs' wellbeing.

Two further updates clarify the requirements for applications and exemptions for a licence to keep more than two dogs. Exemptions would apply to dog-related businesses with a resource consent, while NZ Kennel Club members would lose their exempt status.

"The changes respond to feedback from residents, businesses, and the community at large," says Mayor Craig Rowley. "We're making it easier to understand the requirements."

How to Have Your Say

Submissions can be made at waimatedc.govt.nz/consultations, where the proposed bylaw and policy are published alongside a consultation document with the details of the proposals, maps and key dates. Submissions close at 12 noon on 23 November 2026.

Waimate owners with more than two dogs, or who walk their dogs around the town centre parks, may want to read the maps before submitting. For general registration requirements, see our dog registration council checklist, and if you'll be using the new on-leash areas, our guide to dog harnesses.

Sources

• https://www.waimatedc.govt.nz/council/news-public-notices?item=id:2zxtk2hez1cxbyt9n8xe