On May 28, 2013 Norfolk County Council approved the development of a leash-free dog park as a pilot project on the condition that a community support group is established to assist with its development with recommendations as follows:

  • For “fenced” leash free dog park at Waterford’s Audrey S. Hellyer Park
Audrey Hellyer Park

32 Church Street East,
Waterford, ON N0E 1Y0
  • For”non-fenced” leash free dog park at Simcoe’s Don Shay Park
Don Shay Memorial Park
Don Shay Memorial Park

176 Hunt Street,
Simcoe, ON

 

Norfolk County recognizes 2 styles of off-leash dog parks; fenced and non-fenced. The non-fenced dog parks require owners to have voice control over their dogs. Fenced dog parks typically provide for a separate fenced area for and/or elderly dogs.

Funding

There are no user fees for this program.

Rules and Regulations

  1. Dogs must be kept leashed until the off-leash area has been entered.
  2. Park users & dog owners assume all risks related to off-leash dog area usage.
  3. Poop n’ scoop is mandatory. All individuals must clean up after their dogs.
  4. Dogs must be wearing up to date vaccination and dog license tags.
  5. Female dogs in heat, and sick dogs are to be kept out of this area.
  6. All children under 12 yrs of age must be supervised by an adult while inside dog parks.
  7. No more than two dogs may be brought into the parks by an individual at the same time.
  8. No food (human & canine) permitted in the dog parks.
  9. Loose collars, dog clothing, and bandannas are not allowed in dog parks.
  10. Dog owners are subject to Ontario’s Dog Owner’s Liability Act and the Norfolk County Animal Control Bylaw.
  11. Durable tennis sized balls are the only toys permitted in the dog parks.
  12. Professional dog trainers are not permitted to use the dog parks for business purposes.
  13. All pit bulls must be muzzled.
  14. No smoking in dog parks.
  15. Dogs must be under control.
  16. Use the dog parks at your own risk.

For further information call 519-426-5870 or 226-NORFOLK x2216.

 

To report by-law infractions at the Dog Parks call 519-426-4377.