The recent discussion around dogs being walked off leash and dog owners not picking up after their dogs has highlighted a broader issue facing communities across the Overstrand: everyday actions that many people regard as harmless can have consequences for others.

One resident summed up the growing frustration by saying that dog owners have become an “easy target” whenever public safety is discussed, while other equally dangerous behaviour, such as motorists ignoring stop streets, parking illegally and obstructing pavements, often receives far less attention. The resident from Onrus warned that unless this behaviour changes, it is only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured.

Other common examples include:

• Parking on red lines
• Stopping in front of somebody else’s driveway gate
• Obstructing pedestrian sidewalk and pavements
• Encroaching onto public sidewalks and road reserves
• Failing to stop at stop streets

When these motorists or offenders are confronted, the response is often the same:

• “I’ll only be a minute.”
• “I’m just grabbing a coffee.”
• “Everyone does it.”

Unfortunately, residents also report being met with rude, dismissive and, at times, aggressive behaviour when they politely point out that the law is being ignored.

This is not about targeting one group of residents over another. Whether you are a dog owner, motorist, motorbike owner, cyclist or homeowner, everyone has a responsibility to comply with municipal by-laws and traffic regulations. Respect for these rules helps create a safer, more considerate community for all.

A few important reminders

Dog owners

• Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times in public open spaces unless otherwise indicated.
• Always remain in control of your dog.
• Please pick up after your pet.

Motorists

• Do not park on pavements or in areas marked with a red line
• Never park on or obstruct pedestrian walkways or sidewalks
• Stop completely at every stop street
• Remember that pavements are intended for pedestrians, not vehicles

Property owners

• Do not encroach onto public sidewalks or road reserves.
• Ensure that walls, fences, plants, trees, flower beds and other structures do not obstruct pedestrian movement or create hazards for road users.

Section 5(b) of the Municipality’s Streets, Public Places and Prevention of Noise Nuisances By-law states that no person may obstruct pedestrian traffic on a sidewalk by bringing or allowing any object or vehicle onto the sidewalk. The term “object” includes, amongst others, trees, plants, shrubs, flowers, rocks, logs, constructed flower beds, fencing and gravel where these obstruct pedestrian movements.

Responsible communities are built on more than enforcement. They rely on courtesy, consideration and respect for others.

Who to contact:

Residents can report obstructions on roads or pavements, illegally parked vehicles and overgrown public parks to the Municipality’s 24-hour Contact Centre on 028 313 8000 / 8111. Day-to-day law enforcement complaints, such as dogs not being kept on a leash, can be reported to 028 313 8996 during office hours.

Non-life-threatening issues, such as faded stop streets, damaged or poorly visible road signs and road markings, and other maintenance-related concerns, can be reported via the Overstrand Municipality Citizen App by submitting photographs together with a location pin.