Information for dog owners

The responsibilities of dog owners are established under the Companion Animals Act 1998. Several of the basic responsibilities, and corresponding ‘on the spot penalties’ for non compliance are detailed below.

Keep your dog under control

A dog that is in a public place must be under the effective control of a competent person by means of an adequate cord or leash. Penalty $220.

Register your dog

Dogs are required to be registered after six months of age. Identification (microchipping) is a pre-requisite to registration and is required from 12 weeks of age, or at the time of sale if this occurs before 12 weeks of age. Penalty $165.

Pick up dog droppings

The owner of a dog that defecates in a public place must immediately remove the dog’s faeces and properly dispose of them. Penalty $275.

Barking dogs

Barking dogs can cause severe disturbances to local residents. Where Council receives multiple ongoing complaints about a barking dog the animal may be declared a nuisance. Further barking events may result in a $220 penalty.

Dog owners are advised that any Penalty Infringement Notices issued by Council are processed and recovered by the NSW Police Service SEINS system.

10 essential tips for dog owners

1. Do not allow your dog to roam at any time.
2. Exercise your dog regularly in an off leash exercise area to avoid problems associated with boredom.
3. Ensure your dog is registered (and microchipped if applicable).
4. Pick up your dog’s faeces from public places and put it in a bin.
5. Train your dog not to bark (Council can help you with this).
6. Ask your adjoining owner if your dog creates any nuisanceproblems, and correct them.
7. Avoid dog attacks, ensure your dog is friendly and comfortable with people.
8. Keep your dog under ‘effective control’ when in a public place.
9. Ensure you choose the correct dog for your circumstances.
10. Have your dog desexed if you are not a registered breeder