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Dog Park in Knox

Dogs are an important part of the life of many Knox residents and our large number of open spaces are well utilised for dog walking. The introduction of fenced areas specifically for off-lead play is in response to community needs.

New fenced off-lead dog area at Emerson Place Reserve, Rowville

A new fenced off-lead dog area will be constructed at Emerson Place Reserve, Rowville in 2021.Following extensive community consultation and consideration of community feedback received, Council has made a number of design amendments to the Emerson Place Reserve fenced dog off-lead area to ensure that the best outcome possible is achieved for the community. The most significant amendment made to the design has been moving the location from the centre of the reserve to the north eastern section of the park along Braeburn Parade. We anticipate the new off-lead area will be completed in May and officially opened in June. The Emerson Place Reserve fenced dog off-leash area is supported by the Victorian Government through the 2020/2021 Suburban Parks Program – Local Parks Program..
A new car park is also being designed and will be installed later in the year.

Works Update

February 2021

Construction has commenced at Emerson Place Reserve on time with work temporarily suspended due to the snap Stage 4 restrictions. However, the crew has recommenced and will continue working on the drainage. Concreting works are expected to commence in March.

March 2021

Works completed include:
* Formwork for concrete pathways
* Drainage works
* Installation of timber walkway between quiet dog area and main dog enclosure
* Concreting of pathways within the quiet dog area
* Rocks and logs installed around large existing tree in main dog enclosure

Works in progress
* Concreting of pathways within the main dog enclosure
* Permanent chain link fencing being installed

Upcoming works
* Installation of garden beds and mulching
* Installation of instant turf

Proposed plan for Emerson Place Reserve off-lease dog park

Emerson Place Reserve off-leash dog park

Benefits of redesign

The much loved large section of green open space in the centre of the reserve will be retained.
Incorporates a combination of more grassed and less granitic gravel areas.
Achieves an increased distance and buffer zone between the fenced dog off-lead area and any adjoining residents to the reserve.
Is adjacent to the shared trail, allowing easy and accessible pedestrian access for those coming from Liberty Avenue Reserve to the west, Wellington Village to the east, or Wellington Road to the north.
The new location makes good use of existing features such as the dry creek beds, natural shade areas, and undulating sections of land.
The north-eastern corner of Emerson Place Reserve provides good constant visual surveillance opportunities from Braeburn Parade and pedestrians moving along the shared trail.
There is a natural raised area which will act as a buffer between the fenced area and the playground (with the ‘small and timid dog’ area located closer to the playground)

Dog Play Park at Knox Park Reserve, Knoxfield

Knox City Council has a fully fenced, off leash dog play park that can be found at the Knox Park Reserve (corner of Bunjil Way) Ferntree Gully Road, Knoxfield.

Although the park is fully fenced off, the use of the area is at the risk of the dog owner. Dog owners must be present and have control of their dogs at all times.

Why a dog park?

Socialising is important for your dog. The park provides an ideal setting for dogs to socialise with other pets while being in a safer environment that enables off leash exercise.

We've made the park fun too with the inclusion of several agility items such as hurdles, tunnel and weave poles.

Just right for your pet

Although in parks around Knox dogs may be off lead, our dog play park provides a fenced area that is perfect for a whole range of dog ages and abilities.

To find out more about having your dog off lead in Knox visit our Dogs in Public Places page.

For more information please contact us on 9298 8000 during opening hours.