Animal Management in Public Spaces

Community Consultation Outcomes - Full Council Meeting 9 September 2025

Thank you for sharing your thoughts regarding Animal Management in our Public Spaces.

At the Full Council Meeting held on 9 September 2025 a report was presented to Council to present the results of the community consultation and seek direction in relation to a number of decisions regarding Dog Management in our Public Spaces.

Naomi Reserve Pasadena - Change to Dog Control Rules

Council has supported the change of the dog on-leash control currently in place at Naomi Reserve, Pasadena.

For the purposes of clause 9.1 of the Council’s Dogs By-Law 2022, dogs are now only required to be on-leash between 10:00am and 5:00pm daily. Outside of these hours, dogs are permitted to be off-leash, giving residents and their furry friends more flexibility to enjoy the reserve. Signage will be updated on site to reflect this change.

This decision introduces a time-share arrangement that balances the needs of all park users while supporting responsible dog ownership.

Progress to Detailed Design for Stage 2 Consultation

Council then endorsed the preparation of detailed designs to enhance dog management at the following reserves based on community feedback received:

Blackwood Hill Reserve, Blackwood
Chellaston Reserve, Melrose Park
Naomi Reserve, Pasadena

The designs will explore ways to support responsible dog ownership while ensuring our open spaces remain welcoming and safe for everyone and will be subject to a further round of community consultation (in the order listed above).

Minno Reserve, Glenalta Improvements

Community feedback regarding clearer signage, fencing improvements and the potential inclusion of water access at Minno Reserve Glenalta will be considered as part of the Apex Park and Hawthorndene Oval Masterplan. This consultation is set to begin soon, and we will keep you informed when it is open for feedback.

Thank you for helping shape how we manage dogs in our public spaces.

Background

The City of Mitcham manages approximately 255 parks, reserves, and gardens, providing a diverse range of open spaces including bushland, playgrounds, sporting ovals, and walking trails. To ensure these areas are safe and enjoyable for all users, dog rules vary across the network and include designated dog-free zones, on-leash areas, and off-leash areas.

We are currently inviting community feedback on proposed enhancements at four local reserves, specifically relating to dog access, safety, and enrichment. These reserves have been selected based on location, accessibility, size, environmental considerations, and local community needs:

Blackwood Hill Reserve, Blackwood
Chellaston Reserve, Melrose Park
Minno Reserve, Glenalta
Naomi Reserve, Pasadena

For further location information please refer to Reserve Aerials tab to the right of this page for aerial images of each reserve.

Help us develop reserve specific concept plans

Your input is important in helping Council understand community preferences and to guide the development of dog-friendly improvements that reflect a balanced approach for all park users. Feedback from Stage 1 will be used to develop concept plans for further community consultation.

This work supports the implementation of our Dog and Cat Management Plan 2024-2028, and highlights Council’s commitment to creating inclusive, safe, and enjoyable open spaces.

Your feedback will help ensure our public spaces continue to meet the needs of everyone in the community, including dog owners, families, and visitors alike.