In early 2024 we went out to the community to consult on whether four areas with high biodiversity value should be declared as dog on-lead areas. In total, we received 751 valid responses to the community consultation, with over 75 per cent support for mandatory dog on-lead zones to be implemented in:

• Chambers Gully Reserve
• Heatherbank Reserve
• Michael Perry Botanic Reserve
• Kensington Gardens Reserve/Kensington Wama (wetland only).

To support the ongoing protection of native wildlife, we have recently installed signage in these locations to remind visitors of the mandatory dog-on lead requirements. However, we are sad to announce that two signs in Michael Perry Botanic Reserve have already been vandalised, as can be seen below. Several City of Burnside staff and contractors who have requested visitors to leash their dogs have also been subject to significant verbal abuse on multiple occasions.

We all deserve to work and operate in a safe environment, and this applies not only to Council staff but also to all visitors to our beautiful outdoor spaces. With this in mind, we kindly ask that you treat our staff and contractors with kindness and respect. The abuse of Council staff is never acceptable.

These new dog-on lead areas have been implemented with community approval in the interests keeping native wildlife safe. Local animals have been, and remain, at real risk of injury or death due to unleashed dogs in these locations. When visiting these areas, please do the right thing and leash your dog – in doing so you’ll be keeping both your fur baby and native wildlife safe from one another.

If you witness any sign vandalism or abuse of Council staff and contractors, please report it to Council on 8366 4200 or burnside@burnside.sa.gov.au. You can view the results of the consultation at