No mulligan for unleashed dogs in Collingwood

A bylaw officer prints off a parking ticket on Monday, Aug. 25 in this file image. (Dave Charbonneau/CTV News)

Collingwood is adding a little bite to its new dog-off-leash bylaw.

On July 6, Collingwood council asked staff to implement a new Zero Tolerance Enforcement policy with little wiggle room for those would-be leash-free dogs in town.

In a freshly released statement, the policy “establishes a clear and consistent framework that allows council to designate specific bylaw offences for enhanced enforcement where there are public safety concerns, ongoing community impacts, recurring non-compliance, or a demonstrated need to improve compliance.”

In doing so, council has identified dogs running at large under the Responsible Pet Ownership bylaw as the first offence to be subject to a zero-tolerance approach until June 30, 2027.

Collingwood zero tolerance off leash policy

Under this approach, municipal law enforcement officers can issue a penalty notice or Provincial Offences Act ticket for a first offence without providing a warning first.

Anyone who receives a penalty notice or ticket can of course have access to the existing review, appeal, and dispute processes.

“Collingwood is proud to be a dog-friendly community, and I love seeing leashed dogs enjoying everything we have to offer,” said Mayor Yvonne Hamlin.

“This initiative is about making sure everyone, including our four-legged friends, can safely share our beautiful public spaces, such as parks, trails, and streets.”

Hamlin said council heard from dozens of residents on both sides of this issue before the bylaw was considered.

“We believe improving compliance with existing leash requirements is a reasonable step toward addressing ongoing concerns,” she said.

In a press release, staff state, “Keeping dogs leashed in public spaces helps protect pedestrians, cyclists, children, seniors, wildlife, and the dogs themselves, while supporting the safe and respectful use of parks, trails, streets, and other public areas.”

Collingwood has three designated off-leash dog parks for residents and visitors:

• Pawplar Dog Park, located at Poplar Sideroad and Portland Street
• Central Park Dog Park, located at 250 Hume Street
• Heritage Park Dog Park, located at 11 High Street.