Carrying a dog poo bag while out walking your dog is set to become a legal requirement in Western Bay District Council areas. Photograph by George Novak
Carrying a dog poo bag while out walking your dog is set to become a legal requirement in Western Bay District Council areas. Photograph by George Novak
Dog owners in the Western Bay of Plenty District Council area could soon be fined if caught without a poo bag when out walking their pet.
At Monday's Western Bay of Plenty District policy and strategy committee, most councillors voted to adopt the proposed addition to the dog control bylaw.
The aim is help minimise the effects of dog fouling, and was consistent with bylaws in Blenheim, Queenstown Lakes, Waitaki and Christchurch.
Councillors also agreed to introduce an on-leash restriction in Te Puke, Katikati and Waihi Beach townships, along the entire Omokoroa to Bethlehem Cycleway, and on the Omokoroa foreshore between Cooneys Reserve and Lynley Park.
The restriction is aimed at minimising conflict between cyclists and dogs on the loose, and to protect nesting habitats of birds, including godwits and dotterels.
