Start of Construction - March 2026

Project update

Start of Construction

Works to construct the dedicated fenced off-leash area in Crows Nest will begin in March 2026 and will take up to eight weeks to complete

This will be placed with Skelly Recreation Reserve Park, Crows Nest, off Showground Terrace. You can see the location in the concept plan on this page.

To facilitate the project, Council will remove dead or potentially hazardous branches from the trees within the fenced area.

We advise residents that dogs are to remain on leash when in public and this area is not to be used as an off-leash area until construction is completed.

Facilities to be installed:

  • Two dog off-leash areas (smaller and larger dog separation)
  • 1.5m high chain-wire fence with external koala exclusion panel
  • Secure dog handling area on a concrete slab with pedestrian entry gates
  • Seating within each area
  • Dog off leash area regulatory information signage
  • Water bottle tap with dog bowl in each area
  • New bins with waste bag holder

Consultation for the location of the off-leash park was held with the community in September 2024 and the concept plan and consultation for adoption under local laws occurred in August 2025.


Dogs in public places responsibilities

It should be noted that within any public area dog handlers must:

  • keep their dog(s) under effective control at all times, either by:
    • restraint on a leash OR
    • unrestrained within a designated dog off-leash area but under the continuous supervision of a person who is able to control the animal by voice command
  • immediately remove and dispose of their dog’s faeces in a sanitary manner
  • prevent their dog(s) from attacking a person or animal, or acting in a way that causes fear to a person or animal, or cause damage to property
  • ensure their dog(s) are currently registered within the local government area where they are usually kept
  • ensure that declared dangerous, menacing dogs, and prohibited breeds meet with conditions outlined in the declaration for that animal
  • ensure that female dogs that are in season (on heat) are not brought into a public area.

Local laws and penalties apply.