East Fremantle Council Grants Off-Leash Dog Access to Community Park with Strict WAFL Game Day Restrictions
The Town of East Fremantle council has officially approved a new policy allowing dogs to run unleashed at the East Fremantle Community Park, but with a significant exception during WAFL match days. This decision, made at the council meeting on February 17, 2026, designates the park as a designated dog exercise area, marking a shift from previous regulations.
Council Approval and Safety Concerns
At its recent meeting, the council voted to permit off-leash dog access at the park, reversing a prior designation from May 2024 that did not include exceptions for WAFL fixtures. According to a council report, allowing dogs to exercise without leashes during game days poses serious safety and crowd management risks. The report highlighted that on WAFL match days, the park experiences high spectator numbers, temporary infrastructure setups, increased pedestrian movement, and operational activities related to match-day use, making it unsafe for unleashed dogs.
As a result, dogs will be required to be on a leash during all WAFL games to mitigate these risks and ensure public safety. This measure aims to balance the needs of dog owners with the community's safety during large events.
Background and Context
The East Fremantle Community Park has been a focal point for local activities, including sports events hosted by the East Fremantle Football Club. Recently, the WA Football Commission insisted that the oval, which has been recently revamped, needs to be fenced during matches, potentially forcing the club to relocate its home games. This development adds complexity to the park's management and usage policies.
In addition to the Community Park, other areas in East Fremantle where dogs can exercise without a lead include Preston Point Reserve, Henry Jeffery Oval, and Upper Wauhop Park. These locations provide alternative options for dog owners seeking off-leash areas.
Implications for the Community
This council decision reflects ongoing efforts to enhance community amenities while addressing safety concerns. By allowing off-leash dog access on non-game days, the council supports recreational activities for pet owners, but the leash requirement during WAFL events underscores the importance of crowd control and public safety in busy environments.
The policy change is expected to impact local residents and visitors, promoting responsible pet ownership and ensuring that the park remains a safe and enjoyable space for all users, whether during quiet days or bustling match events.
