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Whether its movies, eating, retail or markets - the EQ is your entertainment destination. Whether its movies, eating, retail or markets - the EQ is your entertainment destination.

The Entertainment Quarter

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Dog Walking

Dog and owner at the Federation PavilionCentennial Parklands is one of the most dog-friendly urban spaces in Sydney.

In fact, there are around 158 hectares of dog off-leash space across the three parks - this equates to approximately 44% of total space dedicated to off-leash dog walking!

The following information provides advice on on-leash and off-leash areas, Trust regulations on dogs in the Parklands, and how dog walkers can ensure they help to protect the environment.

Where are the off-leash areas in Centennial Park?

Centennial Park has many dog-friendly zones, with ample opportunity for off-leash recreation and play for your dog. However, dog owners should be aware that the Park features a wide range of recreation and sporting activities (eg. horse riding, cycling, children's playgrounds) that require responsible dog management to minimise the impact of dogs on other park users.

Our online interactive map outlines all on-leash and off-leash areas in the Park. Just launch the map and choose "Dog Zones" from the menu.

Alternately, you can download our Dogs in the Parklands brochure (PDF, 695 kb).

Key guidelines for dog walkers

While dogs are welcome in the Parklands, we ask dog owners and walkers to be considerate of others and make sure dogs are under control at all times.

There are regulations for dogs in the Parklands to make sure dogs do not compromise safety in areas where there are horses, cars, cyclists, children or sporting activities.

They also help protect the Parklands' animals, plants, ponds and heritage items.

The rules are legally enforceable. You can be fined on the spot for breaking them.

Remember:

  • Dogs are allowed off leash in dedicated areas in Centennial Parklands but must be under effective control at all times.
  • Dogs are not allowed in the restaurant (or any food and beverage facilities) and must be on leash within 10 metres of food preparation areas.
  • Dogs must be on leash within 10 metres of ponds and waterways, children’s playgrounds and the Federation Pavilion.
  • Dogs must be kept away from pond banks, long grass and shrubs, which are sensitive areas and are often home to our native fauna.
  • Dogs and horses don’t mix. Please keep your dog well clear of horses and their riders as horses can cause serious injury if they are chased, bitten or barked at.
  • Dogs are not permitted on Moore Park Golf course at any time.
  • Dogs share Centennial Parklands with many different users. Well trained dogs are sociable and respond quickly to their owners/carers. Responsible dog owners/carers contribute to a safe and enjoyable visit for everyone.

Dog waste

One of the most common complaints we receive from other park visitors regards dog waste not picked up. This is not only unsightly and smelly, it can also have adverse health and environmental impacts if left on the ground.

When it rains, dog waste left on footpaths, roads and grassed areas is washed untreated into the nearest Centennial Park pond. This can harm its sensitive ecosystem, spreading harmful micro-organisms and accelerating the growth of blue-green algae. This affects the beauty of the Parklands and the water quality that our flora and fauna depend upon.

Centennial Parklands provides waste stations and courtesy bag dispensers for disposing of dog waste just in case you forget to bring your own plastic bag.

Our  Dogs in the Parklands brochure indicates the locations of these dispensers.

Lost dog

If you find a lost dog in Centennial Parklands, or lose your dog, please contact a Ranger on 0412 718 611. If you lose your dog you will need to respond quickly. Lost dogs can only be accommodated at Centennial Parklands for a few hours before they are taken to the Sydney Dog Home (77 Edward St, Carlton NSW 2218; phone 9587 9611).

Having your dog microchipped and your contact details clearly visible on your dog’s tag will help your dog get home sooner!