The Christchurch City Council has brought in a raft of changes to its dog control policy.

Christchurch dog owners will now be required to carry a poo bag or face a hefty fine when out walking their pooch.

Dogs will also be allowed back into parts of the central city after the Christchurch City Council approved a raft of changes to its dog control policy on Thursday.

The new rules come into force on September 1, following months of consultation and consideration by councillors and council staff.

HEATHER MCMILLAN Bags of dog poo found on Rapaki Track in Chistchurch's Port Hills.

Dog owners found walking their dog without a bag could face a $300 fine, but a prohibition on dogs in Cathedral Square, Victoria Square, New Regent St and Cashel Mall has been lifted to allow leashed dogs instead. The prohibition on dogs at New Brighton's pedestrian mall has also been lifted.

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The policy has extended the period where dogs are prohibited from certain beaches during the summer by two months, now from November 1 to March 31. The prohibition period was previously December 1 to March 1.

Dogs needed to be on a "short leash" while on sealed pathways in Hagley Park and on two specific popular gravel pathways in the park. A "short leash" was deemed to be no longer than 1.5 metres.

The council received 256 submissions on the proposed policy, with most being supportive of the changes.

The idea to allow dogs back into parts of the central city concerned some residents.

Some said it would adversely affect businesses and pose a health and safety risk, while others said removing the restriction would promote healthy living and help central city growth and vibrancy.