Community Feedback Considered In Sporting Field Decision

Published on 26 June 2026

Parkes Shire Council has resolved to prohibit dogs from Harrison Park, Woodward Oval and Keast Park following a six week community consultation and ongoing concerns raised by sporting user groups regarding dog waste on playing surfaces.

The decision was made at Council's Ordinary Meeting on 16 June 2026 after reviewing the results of a six-week public engagement process, which attracted 51 submissions from community members.

Mayor of Parkes Shire Neil Westcott said Council carefully considered the feedback received before making its decision.

"Council received a broad range of views from the community, with many respondents recognising the importance of maintaining clean and safe sporting facilities while also highlighting the value of public open spaces for exercising dogs."

"The consultation identified strong support for responsible dog ownership, increased education and improved compliance measures. However, Council also heard ongoing concerns from sporting clubs and users regarding dog waste on fields used by children, families and sporting participants."

Community feedback highlighted concerns relating to hygiene, safety, impacts on organised sport and compliance with existing regulations. Many respondents also expressed concern about the limited availability of suitable dog exercise areas and called for improved infrastructure and enforcement rather than a blanket ban.

Mayor Westcott said Council acknowledged the concerns raised by responsible dog owners and recognised the importance of providing appropriate spaces for dog exercise.

"As part of its resolution, Council has committed to investigating options and costs for additional or expanded off-leash dog areas to help meet the needs of the community," he said.

"While the decision to prohibit dogs at these sporting fields was not taken lightly, Council believes it provides the clearest and most effective way to address ongoing concerns and ensure these facilities remain safe and enjoyable for sporting users."

Council will continue compliance and enforcement activities relating to dogs in public spaces and will provide further information to the community regarding the implementation of the new restrictions.

Council is currently updating signage at the affected sporting fields and developing a targeted compliance and education program to support implementation of the new restrictions. The prohibition will come into effect once signage has been installed and community notification has been completed.

Once the ban comes into effect, dogs will no longer be permitted at Harrison Park, Woodward Oval and Keast Park. Failure to comply with the prohibition may result in penalties of up to $1,100 under the Local Government Act 1993.

Residents are reminded that a number of other public open spaces throughout the shire remain available for walking and exercising dogs, subject to relevant regulations.

For more information, visit: Companion Animals Parkes Shire Council