Council staff say the permits will bring the booming industry into line with other businesses that use public space for commercial purposes,such as cafes and fitness classes.
An annual permit would cost $552.60,with dog walkers required to be aged 16 or over,have public liability insurance for a minimum of $20 million and professional indemnity insurance for a minimum of $5 million,as well as hold a current first aid and animal first aid certificate.
Only one commercial dog walker would be permitted to access a dedicated off-leash park at any one time,with a maximum of two commercial dog walkers per park per day.
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Popular off-leash spots within the council’s boundaries include Camperdown Memorial Rest Park,Petersham Park and Balmain’s Birrung Park.
The draft policy is being presented to council on Tuesday with recommendations it be exhibited for public feedback over the next four weeks.
Inner West Council estimates there are 42,000 pet dogs in its local government area,belonging to about two in five households.