The city wants to make sure everyone has positive experience at parks and on trails.
The City of Nanaimo sent out a press release this spring reminding pet owners that dogs are not permitted on beaches that haven’t been designated as off-leash areas.
Dogs are not allowed on most public beaches from May through September, and aren’t allowed at Piper’s Lagoon beach until after Oct. 31. There are a few exceptions, including Invermere Beach Park which is a designated off-leash area during low tide.
“Dogs are welcome off-leash at any of Nanaimo’s 12 designated off-leash areas as well as on leash when visiting other Nanaimo parks and trails,” said Rod Davidson, city manager of bylaw, regulation and security, in a press release. “We’d like to thank everyone for their co-operation.”
Designated off-leash areas can be found at May Richards Bennett Pioneer Park, Beaufort Park, Westwood Lake Park, Northfield Park, Wardropper Park, Colliery Dam Park, St. George Ravine, Cable Bay Trail, Beban Park and Gallow’s Point on Protection Island. Diver Lake Park is off-leash between October and April.
The municipality is also asking dog owners to pick up after their pets, as dog feces can contain harmful organisms that can wash into swimming areas, according to the press release.
Pet owners can face fines of $150-500 for non-compliance with the bylaws.
Anyone wishing to report animal control issues is asked to call 250-616-0233.
For more information, visit www.nanaimo.ca.