Date 01 April 2026 Category City news, Media release, Public notice Topic Animals and pets The City of Fremantle is inviting community feedback as part of a review of its Dog Exercise and Prohibited Areas Policy and associated Dog Local Law. The City of Fremantle is inviting community feedback as part of a review of its Dog Exercise and Prohibited Areas Policy and associated Dog Local Law. The review aims to ensure the City’s approach to dog access across parks, beaches and reserves is clear, consistent and fair for everyone who uses these shared spaces. Fremantle is a dog-friendly city, and the City recognises the important role dogs play in many people’s lives. At the same time, public spaces must balance a range of uses, including recreation, organised sport, environmental protection and community safety. The policy review follows ongoing community feedback about dog access, safety and responsible dog ownership in public open spaces. This feedback has helped identify opportunities to improve how dog areas are managed across the City. The draft amended policy proposes a range of updates to improve clarity and consistency, including: Clearer criteria to guide decisions about dog exercise areas and dog prohibited areas Clearer definitions of off-lead, on-lead and dog prohibited areas Better alignment between the policy and on-ground signage Clearer guidance for managing beaches, sporting fields, playgrounds and conservation areas Additional guidance to support responsible dog ownership The following key changes are proposed: Dogs on-lead or prohibited in natural areas where conservation is the primary priority (including Prawn Bay, Rocky Bay and parts of Samson Park) Off-lead area at Rule Street Park in North Fremantle (subject to approvals) Clearer and more consistent approach to dog management across public open spaces No dogs in playgrounds (including in a 5-metre buffer zone) “The review will make it easier for the community to understand where dogs can be exercised, how decisions are made and what is expected when using shared public spaces,” City of Fremantle CEO Glen Dougall said. Community members are encouraged to have their say, whether they own a dog or not. Read the documents and take the survey. Submissions close at 5pm on Friday 22 May 2026
