Dog  & cat ownership

As a pet owner you have certain responsibilities under the law. These laws and regulations govern the way we keep dogs and cats and are in force to ensure correct identification of companion animals and to provide protection for the animal, owner and broader community.

Companion Animals Act 1998

Microchip and Register your Pet (both cats and dogs)

All companion animals must be microchipped at 12 weeks of age and lifetime registered by 6 months of age. Not only is it a requirement under the Companion Animals Act 1998, but it’s the best chance you have of being reunited with your pet if it were to go missing. If you are buying or selling or giving away a pet it must be microchipped regardless of its age before a change of ownership. Fines apply for failing to microchip and register your pet when required. More information on microchipping

Collar and Tag (both cats and dogs)

Your pet, while on public land must have a collar and tag displaying the pets name and a contact phone number or the address where the pet is usually kept. It’s a good idea to keep the collar on permanently as members of the public can quickly identify and return your pet to you on weekends and after business hours. Suitable pet tags are available from most vet clinics and engravers. Don’t forget to replace your pets’ tag when you move house or change phone numbers! Fines apply for failing to clearly identify your pet using a collar and tag whilst on public land.

Effective Control (applies to dogs only)

Dogs must be on a lead and held by a competent person at all times unless in an off leash area, and must be under effective control at all times. On the spot fines of $165.00 apply to owners who walk their dog off the lead. You must also ensure your dog is properly secured at the place where it is usually kept. If your dog escapes and is allowed to roam on public property, then this may also attract a fine.

Off leash areas (applies to dogs only)

• Wolseley Street Reserve, South Granville
• Cowell's Lane Reserve, Ermington
• McCoy Park, Toongabbie

Ensure the Safety of other People and Animals (applies to dogs only)

You must not allow your dog to rush at, chase, harass or attack any person or animal. These offences are considered to be very serious, carry hefty on the spot fines and may result in legal action taken against you.

Remove all Faeces (applies to dogs only)

You must clean up after your dog when he/she defecates in public and remove all faeces and dispose of properly. On the spot fines of $275.00 can be issued for failure to clean up after your dog.

Prohibited Areas (applies to cats & dogs)

Dogs are prohibited from certain areas and must not be allowed to enter at any time.
These areas are; schools, within 10 meters of childrens’ play areas , wildlife protection areas, food consumption and preparation areas, public bathing areas, child care centres, shopping centres and some recreation areas where dogs are prohibited.  

Cats are prohibited from food consumption and preparation areas and wildlife protection areas. On the spot fines of $165.00 apply to owners who fail to comply with these restricted areas.