The District of Squamish is looking for more feedback about proposed off-leash dog areas and rules for using the areas.
The survey is available online and a paper version can be completed at either Municipal Hall or Brennan Park Recreation Centre.
The survey will be available until Oct. 12.
“This is a continuation of a public engagement process that builds on previous feedback and aims to ensure harmony and safety across the community for dogs, dog owners, and non-dog owners alike,” reads a news release.
There are two types of locations being proposed: off-leash areas and off-leash trails.
Off-leash areas may be partially fenced or fully fenced, and both may be subject to seasonal closures as necessary.
The proposed off-leash areas include:
- John Hunter Park in Valleycliffe
- Brennan Park fenced dog run
The proposed off-leash trails include:
- Squamish River Dike, behind the Public Works Yard in Garibaldi Estates
- Stawamus River Dike in Valleycliffe
- Merrill Park in Garibaldi Highlands
- Powerline Service Road in Brackendale
- Brennan Park Nature Trail
The District has also developed a map online of all the areas for the public’s review.
Lastly, the proposed conditions to use the areas are as follows:
- Carry a visible dog leash at all times
- Ensure the dog is wearing a current valid dog licence
- Maintain a clean line of sight to the dog
- Remove waste deposited by the dog and dispose of such waste
- Leash the dog if it displays aggressive behaviour or otherwise unreasonably interferes with the use and enjoyment of the off-leash area by any other person or dog
- Leash the dog when wildlife is encountered and do not allow the dog to harass wildlife
- Do not allow off-leash dogs in sensitive habitats and spawning channels
- Do not have more than three dogs in the park
- Recognize Squamish is a community that is surrounded by wildlife of all kinds that could harm or kill a dog, so there is a risk when using off-leash dog locations
Feedback collected will be considered in the forming of a staff recommendation to council later this fall about whether some or all of the proposed locations should move forward.
Approved locations would start as pilot projects before additional locations would be considered, according to the District.
For more information, please visit the District’s website about the project.
