Owning a dog

'Dogs have a way of finding the people who need them, and filling an emptiness we didn’t ever know we had.' – Thom Jones

For the comfort, safety and health of the community and our dogs, dog owners have the following responsibilities:

  • All dogs must be microchipped by 12 weeks of age or before being sold or given away.
  • All dogs must be registered by 12 weeks of age. The registration fee is a once-only, lifetime payment, even if pet ownership changes.
  • When in a public place, ensure your dog is wearing a collar with a tag attached that shows the dog’s name and your address or phone number.
  • When in a public place, ensure your dog is under the control of a competent person by means of an adequate leash, chain or cord.
  • When you're in an off-leash or leash-free area, maintain effective control of your dog at all times. 
  • Collect and correctly dispose of dog faeces in all public places.
  • Make sure your dog not doesn't enter prohibited areas such as children’s play areas, food preparation and consumption areas, school grounds, childcare centres and wildlife protection areas.

Under NSW law, pet dogs must be microchipped and then registered. If your animal is registered and your details are up to date, your pet can be safely returned to you if it gets lost.

Read more on how to register a dog.

For dog and cat registration or pound fees, see Council's Schedule of Fees and Charges.

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