West Epping Park Dog Off-leash Area

The dog owner or handler must be present at all times and is responsible to have their dog/s under effective control, being no more than four (4) dogs that should respond to voice commands. Dog owners or handlers are also required to immediately remove and dispose of any droppings in the provided waste bin.

Dogs must be registered, micro-chipped and wear a collar with a name tag that shows the name of the dog and contact details of the owner.

Dogs that are declared as dangerous or menacing are not permitted within an off-leash area.

Fencing provides a secure space separate from other park users that allows dogs to run freely whilst minimising potential conflicts. It also assists older and/or less mobile owners to maintain effective control.

The West Epping Park Masterplan was adopted in by Hornsby Shire Council in 2015 and identifies a potential dog off-leash area subject to separate approval. It was not included in the approved construction works transferred to the City of Parramatta following local government boundary changes.

The proposal includes a bin and bag dispenser to dispose of dog faeces and any other litter.

New and existing deciduous trees will provide shade during the warmer months whilst allowing for sunlight during the cooler months.

The proposed dog off-leash area is consistent with the adopted West Epping Park masterplan, which retains the adjoining grassed area south of the carpark as a multi-use recreational and event space.

Dogs are permitted on a lead outside the designated off-leash area but must not be within 10m of playground or picnic and BBQ areas where food is prepared or consumed (unless passing by on a pathway) or are a registered and suitably trained assistance dog.

No separate areas are proposed due to the limited space available and the need to ensure adequate dispersal of dog movement to minimise potential conflicts

Signage will be installed to educate owners of their responsibilities to keep dogs under effective control and will include relevant contact details in the event of any complaints or emergencies. Complaints regarding problematic and aggressive behaviour will be directed to Council Animal Management Officers for investigation.

The lights will switch on at sunset and switch off at 10pm consistent with the existing lighting of other facilities within West Epping Park.

The design incorporates additional drainage infrastructure to reduce the impacts of water ponding and improve maintenance capabilities.