The City of Wanneroo is moving to formalize new on-leash rules for dogs in 20 nature reserves, despite community efforts to exempt some parks. The ban, which would prohibit dogs from running off-lead, applies to reserves where cats are already banned, including Scenic Drive Park, Lake Gnangara, Koondoola Open Space & Reserve, Donnelly Park, Rotary Park, and the Lake Joondalup foreshore.
The city had planned to implement the changes earlier this year after an officers' report recommended it, but the council deferred the decision for more community consultation. Since then, a petition with 1,100 signatures called for Scenic Park to be removed from the list, though only 173 signatories lived in the city. City officers are again recommending the ban and denying the exemption, citing benefits to local wildlife.
Officers stated that allowing the changes would help control high biodiversity natural habitats and reduce stress on wildlife caused by uncontrolled dogs. Other reserves affected include Lansdale Park in Darch, Hepburn Park in Lansdale, Chancellor Park in Marangaroo, and Badgerup Reserve in Wanneroo. Dogs are already required to be on lead in eight foreshore reserves, making 28 reserves with on-lead rules if the proposal passes.
In May, the city met with local dog walkers who raised concerns about losing social and mental health benefits from off-lead exercise. They argued that lakeside parks along Scenic Drive offer better opportunities than other off-lead parks. However, city officers believe the changes have strong public support, noting extensive community backing on social media after an April 2025 council meeting.
Former councillor Nat Herridge, who initiated the review in 2023, expressed frustration with delays and urged the council to make a decision. If approved, the ban would cost about $20,000 for new signage and include a community education campaign. The council is expected to vote on the proposal at its next ordinary meeting on Tuesday, November 25.
