Dog owners are calling for changes to off-leash rules at a Sunshine Coast park, arguing the risk of an $863 fine makes the current arrangement unfair and confusing.
Dogs are currently only permitted off-leash within the signed dog exercise area at Quota Memorial Park in Nambour.
More than 100 people have signed a petition started by Mikahla Steele calling on Sunshine Coast Council to introduce additional off-leash hours at the park, before 8am and after 4pm.
A Sunshine Coast Council spokesperson said in the past 12 months, council has issued just two infringements in the area for dogs being off-leash outside the designated off-leash area.
Ms Steele said the proposal would allow dogs under effective control to be exercised in appropriate areas while addressing confusion around the unfenced exercise area.
“Recently, local dog owners have reported receiving fines when their dogs have moved outside the designated area,” she said.
“This is particularly concerning because the current on-the-spot fine for having a dog off-leash in an on-leash area is $863.
“For an unfenced dog exercise area where the boundary may not always be obvious to people actually using the park, we believe this is a significant penalty and highlights the need for a clearer and more practical approach.”
Ms Steele said similar time-based off-leash arrangements already operate elsewhere on the Sunshine Coast.
Some dog owners have also voiced support for changes to the current arrangement.
On Facebook, Nerida Allen said she supported the proposal but wanted a physical barrier around the off-leash area.
“An $863 fine if your dog accidentally wanders outside an unfenced designated area is madness,” she wrote.
“I can no longer go with my dog while this threat hangs over my head. No more socialisation, no exercise, no reason to pay my rates and dog licence.”
In response to questions about the price of the fine, a Sunshine Coast Council spokesperson said the penalty was not set by council.
“The penalty for a dog being off-lead in an on-lead area is set by the Queensland Government under the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008,” they said.
“Our officers take a measured approach and consider the circumstances of each situation when responding to reports of non-compliance.”
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Council said Quota Memorial Park features clear signage with maps at entry paths defining the off-leash dog exercise area.
“Petitions made to council are tabled at an Ordinary Meeting and referred to the relevant council area for action and response,” the spokesperson said.
“Creating additional time-restricted off-leash areas must be carefully considered, as it adds complexity that may make rules harder to follow for dog owners. It also reduces park area for other early morning and late afternoon users.
“Council has not received any complaints about dogs being off-leash at Quota Park.”
Council also urged dog owners to check local rules before visiting parks and reserves with their pets.
“Dog owners are encouraged to ‘know before they go’ by checking local signs, council’s website and the interactive map before visiting parks, beaches and reserves with their dog.”
