Broome introduces changes to dog exercise areas to improve public safety

In a move to improve community safety and encourage higher standards of pet responsibility, the Shire of Broome is rolling out changes to dog-on-leash and off-leash areas across the region.

Following community consultation in 2024, where more than 1000 residents shared their feedback, the shire has updated its animal management plan to better reflect the needs of a growing and diverse population.

The updated plan includes new regulations around where dogs can be walked off-lead, as well as clarified rules to ensure pets and people can enjoy public spaces harmoniously.

Shire president Chris Mitchell said the changes were about ensuring everyone could feel safe and welcome in Broome’s parks, beaches and recreational spaces.

“The shire’s animal management plan is about making sure that anyone who owns a pet or animal within the shire’s boundaries does so responsibly,” Mr Mitchell said.

“We’re looking to our community to undertake things like registration, microchipping and desexing, and to make sure their pets are healthy, kept securely when at home, and that their waste is disposed of appropriately.”

As part of the changes, from May 2025, several new regulations will come into effect:

• Dogs must be kept on-leash in public spaces unless signage clearly indicates it is an off-leash area.
• The dog-on-leash area south of the surf club ramp will be expanded.
• The BRAC playing fields will be available for off-leash exercise outside of organised sports and events.
• The dog-prohibited zone at Cable Beach will be permanently extended.
• Off-leash dogs will be prohibited from the vehicle-accessible area of Gantheaume Beach.
• Dogs must be on-leash near horses, camels, turtles, jetties, boat ramps and footpaths.

The shire will also trial 13 new off-lead dog exercise areas in parks across Broome, increasing the number of options for pet owners to safely exercise their dogs.

“There will still be large areas of beach permitted for use as dog exercise areas,” Mr Mitchell said.

“This means, when it comes to exercise for people and their pets, our community will have more choice than ever.”

Residents are reminded that even in designated off-leash areas, pet owners must carry a leash at all times and maintain control of their dogs. Clear signage will be installed throughout the shire to help guide community members and visitors.

The changes aim to improve coexistence in shared spaces — particularly around children, cyclists, and wildlife — while maintaining areas where dogs can socialise and roam freely under supervision.