We recognise that dog off-leash areas are beneficial for the health and wellbeing of dogs. Many of our parks have designated off-leash areas. Download our guide to on and off-leash locations with maps showing parks where there are designated off-leash areas to exercise your dog.
Remember to follow these simple rules
- Dogs must be kept under control by means of a chain, cord or leash, which is no more than 1.5 metres in length
- You must clean up after your dogs at all times
- Dogs should be on a leash at all times in public places, except in certain parks and reserves that are designated off-leash areas
- Dogs are not permitted within 20 metres of:
- playgrounds, barbecues or picnic areas;
- the Duncan Mackinnon Athletics Track and netball facilities and the Packer Park Velodrome;
- sportsground preparation and sporting events; and
- organised public meetings.
- Your dog should not harass people or other animals. Even when dogs are in off-leash areas, they must still be under effective voice control and in sight of their owner.
- Dogs must be on a leash within five metres of shared footpaths and bicycle paths.
Off-leash areas are still public areas, which means they are open for all to enjoy, not just dog owners. Not all people like dogs and some people can be intimidated by even small dogs running up to them, so never let your dog jump up on people.
If your dog does not return to you when call it or you have difficulty controlling your dog’s behaviour, you should never let your dog off its leash.
Councils regularly patrol parks and open spaces to ensure owners are meeting their obligations. Remember significant fines can apply to owners found doing the wrong thing.
The STC Vic has Broadform Public Liability Insurance which includes reasonable Personal Accident cover for fully paid, STC Vic Members who are also fully paid Members of Dogs Victoria and ensures cover whilst Members are engaged in Club activities.
The policy does not cover any incurred medical expenses in relation to a claim. Medical expenses would be covered by Members’ own Medicare or private health cover.
STC Vic Members who are not Members of Dogs Victoria will be covered as the Club pays an annual levy fee for this purpose.
Non-members of STC Vic attending any STC Vic event will not be covered under the Broadform Public Liability Insurance. All Members attending an STC Vic event should be mindful when inviting others to events, that they do so at their own risk. It is advised that all people seeking to attend STC Vic events should join as a Member prior to the event.
In the event of an incident for Members of STC Vic, the incident must be reported to Dogs Victoria, who will in turn report to Petplan Professional. Such reports are to be in writing, complete with all witness and incident details. Dogs Victoria will arrange for Petplan to either send out a claim form or arrange an appointment time with an Insurance Loss Assessor.
