New requirements for dog owners and dog walkers in Macedon Ranges Shire will come in to effect on 1 January 2020.

The new requirements are part of Council’s efforts to protect the natural environment and to promote health and wellbeing.

From 1 January 2020, dogs in public places must be on a leash (except in designated off-leash areas).

Dogs must be under effective control at all times and should not be left unattended.

Council wants to protect the shire’s sensitive native environment and hence, dogs will be prohibited in these sensitive areas.

As part of the new on-leash order, Council’s website will detail more than 50 designated off-leash areas for dogs and the areas where dogs are prohibited.

Council has worked to balance the needs of dogs, their owners and the broader community in introducing off-leash dog areas. The introduction of prohibited areas focuses on reducing the impact of dogs on the natural environment.

These changes stem from recommendations in the Dog On and Off Leash and Cat Curfew Review endorsed by Council in March 2019.

The recommendations come from the community’s active and successful participation in the Paws for Thought consultation in 2018, as part of the 2017-2021 Domestic Animal Management Plan.

Dog owners are urged to check their new obligations at and to look for information brochures at Council service centres, local veterinarians and pet supply stores.

As 1 January 2020 approaches, Council will roll out a community education campaign and will install relevant signage. Council rangers will also connect with the community to explain the new controls.

For more information see Walking dogs off leash