FAQs
Removing detailed impounding provisions that are already covered by the state Dog Act 1976.
Adding a new clause that allows the City to direct a dog owner to provide a suitable enclosure if their dog is not being contained.
Updating some modified penalties, including new $200 penalties for failing to contain a dog and for failing to comply with a direction to provide a suitable enclosure.
Fails to provide effective means to contain their dog; or
Fails to comply with a written direction to provide a suitable enclosure.
Proceed with the Dogs Amendment Local Law 2025 as advertised.
Make further changes in response to community feedback.
Decide not to proceed.
What is a local law?
Section 3.5 of the Local Government Act 1995 (the Act) provides the power for local governments to make local laws to help perform their functions.
Local Laws (which were once known as ‘By Laws’) are subsidiary legislation, made by local governments
What is the Dogs Amendment Local Law 2025?
Why is the City changing the Dogs Local Law?
The City is updating the Dogs Local Law so it better reflects current legislation and community expectations. The changes focus on responsible dog ownership, particularly making sure dogs are safely contained on their property and that penalties are consistent and up to date.
What are the main changes being proposed?
Key changes include:
What does “Direction to provide a suitable enclosure” mean in practice?
If an authorised officer believes a dog is not being adequately contained on a property, they may issue a written direction asking the owner to provide or improve an enclosure (for example, by fixing fencing or gates). The direction will set out what needs to be done and by when. Not following that direction may result in a $200 modified penalty.
Is this a new fine for all dog owners?
No. The $200 modified penalties only apply where a dog owner:
Responsible dog owners who already keep their dogs safely contained and follow the rules will not be affected by these penalties.
Why $200 – isn’t that too much?
The $200 amount is consistent with penalties used by many local governments for similar dog‑related offences. It is intended to be enough to encourage compliance without needing to go straight to court, where fines can be much higher. The focus is on preventing ongoing problems and improving safety for the community and other animals.
How will this change the way community rangers enforce the law?
The proposed changes give community rangers clearer tools to deal with recurring containment issues. In many cases, community rangers will continue to educate and work with owners first. Where problems continue, an infringement may be issued instead of starting a court prosecution, which is more time‑consuming and costly for everyone.
Why is the City removing Part 2 about impounding dogs?
Impounding of dogs is comprehensively regulated by the Dog Act 1976. Having a second set of impounding rules in the local law is no longer necessary and can create confusion. Removing Part 2 avoids duplication while still allowing the City to impound dogs under State law when required.
Will this affect “dangerous dog” penalties?
No. Penalties for dangerous dogs are set out in State legislation, and those provisions continue to apply. The draft local law simply removes duplicated references to dangerous dog penalties from the City’s Dogs Local Law, because the State Act already covers them.
What happens after the consultation period ends?
All submissions will be reviewed and reported to Council. Council may then decide to:
If the local law is made, it will be published in the Government Gazette and take effect from the commencement date stated in the law.