Off leash dogs at Reservoir Park

Over the past number of years, the Town has been made aware of negative interactions between off leash dogs and other Park users. Over the past months, the number of complaints has increased and we can all agree that safety is the first priority in a public park.

Staff have been working to understand the situation, with help from park users, through this engagement site. We have no closed our survey and are working on a report to Council, scheduled for Tuesday, June 3.

Background:

Wolfville has a dog control bylaw. This bylaw permits dogs to be off leash in Reservoir Park, but only if the dog is under voice control of their human. If they are not under voice control, they can be considered to be running at large and their human can face a fine between $100 and $1,000.

Under voice control means the dog's human has complete control of the dog's behaviour.

An off leash dog would not be under voice control if they are chasing people or bicycles, jumping on people, knocking over children, biting people or other dogs.

An off leash dog would be under voice control if it comes immediately when called, regardless of distractions, if the dog stays within hearing range, not wandering off, and if the dog responds to basic commands (no, wait, down, etc.).

UPDATE: MAY 23, 2025 - SURVEY CLOSED

Many thanks to those who shared their insights and ideas. The survey is now closed.

Staff will be presenting the results of this engagement as well as recommendations to Council on Tuesday, June 3 at Committee of the Whole.