Greater Sydney Parklands

Dog walking

Centennial Parklands is one of Sydney’s most dog-friendly places.

More than 30% of the parklands are off-leash, giving dogs plenty of space to run and play. There are also areas where dogs must stay on-leash or are not allowed at all. These rules protect wildlife, plants, ponds and heritage areas, and help make the parklands safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Download the dog brochure (PDF) for a map and further information.

Centennial Park dog with owners

Off leash areas

  • Outside of Grand Drive
  • On sporting fields when not in use (except Tramway Oval and Kippax Lake Field, where dogs are always prohibited) 


Dogs must always be under effective control as prescribed in the Companion Animals Act 1998. 

On-leash areas

  • Inside and on the Grand Drive circuit, and within 10 metres of the Federation Pavilion
  • The entire Fearnley Grounds and Guriwal Trail
  • Within 10 metres of ponds, waterways and wildlife protection areas
  • Within 10 metres of the horse track and access corridor near Robertson Road Gates
  • On all roads, shared paths and cycle lanes
  • The front lawn of the Superintendent’s Residence
  • Inside the takeaway Centennial Homestead Pantry, Pantry deck, and entrance; on the Homestead Kitchen deck and lawn; and around the fountain


Tethered dogs must always be supervised and remain the responsibility of their owner or carer. 

Prohibited areas

  • On horse or cycle tracks, roads, equestrian grounds, playgrounds, Learners Cycleway, in ponds or on sporting fields when in use
  • In wildlife protection areas, including the Bird Sanctuary and York Road Bushland
  • Within 10 metres of children’s playgrounds and barbecues
  • On the Moore Park Golf Course or Centennial Parklands Sports Centre
  • Within 10 metres of food preparation areas, cafés and restaurants
  • At Tramway Oval and Kippax Lake Field  
  • Inside the Hordern Pavilion, Centennial Homestead Kitchen (restaurant), Royal Hall of Industries and the Equestrian Centre. 

General rules for dogs

  • Dogs must be on leash within 10 metres of any pond or lake
  • Dogs must not be led by cyclists, rollerbladers, horse riders or from vehicles
  • Owners must clean up after their dogs and use the bins provided
  • A single person can lead a maximum of 4 dogs
  • Restricted breeds (such as pit bull terriers and Argentinian fighting dogs) must always be leashed, muzzled and handled by someone over 18

Lost dogs and injured animals

  • Report lost dogs, dog attacks or injured wildlife to parklands rangers on 0412 718 611
  • Dogs are often taken to the Parklands Office or transferred to the Sydney Dogs and Cats Home
  • Do not try to handle an injured animal – call the rangers or contact WIRES or RSPCA

Legal requirements

  • The NSW Companion Animals Act 1998 sets out the rules for dog ownership
  • Dogs in public places must be under effective control on a leash
  • Dogs must wear a collar with their name and owner’s contact details
  • Local authorities, including Centennial Parklands, can declare extra off-leash, on-leash or prohibited areas