Brisbane City Council is closing all dog off-leash areas effective immediately to protect residents and reduce the risk of the transmission of coronavirus.

Brisbane City Council Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the closures include nearly 150 fenced dog off-leash areas following advice from the Chief Health Officer and new social distancing measures limiting gatherings in public spaces.

“Dog parks are beloved places by dogs and their owners across our city but these new social distancing measures reflect the severity of the situation,” Cr Schrinner said.

“I know the community will understand the important role they play in helping reduce the spread of coronavirus and for now that means sacrificing off-leash playtime.

“While off-leash dog areas will be a no-go zone, we still encourage people to exercise their pets in other ways, including at on-leash areas at other Council parks and walking trails across the city.

“We also encourage all residents to continue to clean up after their pets and practise safe social distancing and hygiene.”

Council’s decision to close the dog parks comes after all outdoor gyms, skateparks, playgrounds, exercise equipment, basketball facilities, BMX tracks and barbecues were closed until further notice.

Those visiting a Council park are urged to follow the below directions:

  • If you are unwell, do not visit a park
  • Observe social distancing rules and stay 1.5m apart
  • Do not hold gatherings of more than two people
  • Wash and/or sanitise hands
  • Avoid patting someone else’s dog and picking up their toys i.e. balls, frisbees

Cr Schrinner said Council continues to monitor the ever-changing situation and is working closely with Queensland Health and the Federal Government to keep Brisbane residents safe and the city running.

“The situation is changing every single day, and I thank residents for their continuous cooperation as we implement these changes, because every single prevention measure we take today, will help us see through to the end of this crisis,” he said.

Council’s website is continually updated with the latest information regarding coronavirus changes. For more information, visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au or call Council on (07) 3403 8888. For health advice or information visit www.health.gov.au