Your guide to leashes, parks & paws‑on fun
Dogs at Barangaroo
Everything you need to know to enjoy Barangaroo with your dog - from leash rules and off‑leash play, to swims, water stops and waste disposal.
Barangaroo is one of Sydney’s most dog-friendly harbourside precincts — and we like to keep it that way. Whether you’re a local resident, a regular walker, or visiting with your four legged sidekick, this guide covers everything you need to know about dogs at Barangaroo.
Off-leash play: Hickson Park (trial hours)
Good news for energetic pups and their humans, Hickson Park currently offers designated off‑leash times!
Off-leash hours:
- 6 - 10am
- 4 - 7.30pm
Outside these hours, dogs are still welcome — they just need to be back on the leash.
This trial runs from until 8 Jun, 2026 and helps balance the needs of dog owners with other park users.
Dogs are welcome on-leash across all public outdoor areas at Barangaroo, including promenades, foreshore paths and parklands. This aligns with NSW companion animal requirements and Placemaking NSW regulations to ensure the precinct remains safe, enjoyable and shared by everyone.
Top tip: Short leashes work best on busy paths - especially during weekends, events and peak commuting hours.
Top tip: Short leashes work best on busy paths - especially during weekends, events and peak commuting hours.
FAQs
Quick answers for busy dog parents
Dogs are welcome in most outdoor public areas across the precinct, as long as they’re on a leash, unless you’re visiting a designated off‑leash area during approved times. Dogs aren’t permitted inside indoor venues, playgrounds or some event spaces unless clearly signed otherwise.
Hickson Park currently offers trial off‑leash hours:
Outside these times, dogs are still welcome but must be leashed. This trial helps balance playtime for pups with comfort and safety for all park users.
- 6-10am
- 4-7.30pm
Outside these times, dogs are still welcome but must be leashed. This trial helps balance playtime for pups with comfort and safety for all park users.
Yes - dogs are welcome to swim at Marrinawi Cove. While your dog is in the water, they may be off‑leash, so they can enjoy a proper paddle and cool off. Once your dog is out of the water and back on land, they must be back on‑leash straight away. This helps keep the foreshore safe, shared and enjoyable for swimmers, walkers and other visitors.
Yes. Public water bubblers are located throughout Barangaroo, particularly along major walking routes and open spaces. Many are pet‑friendly designs with lower bowls or taps suitable for dogs. Not every bubbler has a dog bowl, so on warmer days we recommend bringing a collapsible bowl - your dog will thank you.
Dog waste bag dispensers are available at key locations across the precinct, especially near parks and high‑use walking paths. Bins are also conveniently placed nearby for easy disposal. If a dispenser happens to be empty, please use your own bag and pop it in the nearest bin. Picking up after your dog keeps Barangaroo clean, safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Some outdoor events are dog‑friendly, others aren’t - it depends on the event, crowd size and setup. Always check event‑specific information before attending with your dog.
Barangaroo is a busy, shared space. If your dog becomes anxious, reactive or overly excitable, please leash them (or shorten the leash) and move to a quieter area. Dogs that are aggressive or not under control may need to be removed from the area for everyone’s safety.
Still have questions?
Contact Placemaking NSW for any specific questions. Or, subscribe to our monthly newsletter to stay up to date on trials, events and pet-friendly initiatives.