16-04-2025
Council has informed residents about new regulations regarding animals, which also includes stock animals. Please note that cats and dogs are excluded from these rules, except for dogs located in national parks.
Key Points:
- Emergencies Involving Stock Animals:
The Authority has the right to place stock animals on nearby private property after making reasonable attempts to obtain consent from the landowner or occupier. The Authority must remove the animal immediately after the emergency situation has ended. - Unattended Animals in Public Spaces:
If an animal is found unattended in a public area, the Authority may return it to the responsible person. The Authority is also permitted to take possession of the animal immediately. - Unattended Animals on Private Property:
If an animal is found unattended on private land, the occupier of that land may take possession of the animal and must:
- Inform the owner of the animal’s location within 24 hours.
- Return the animal to the owner within 4 days, or
- Contact the Authority to have the animal taken to a designated care facility within 4 days.
- After the Animal is Taken into Possession:
The responsible person has 7 days to reclaim the animal. If the animal is not reclaimed within this period, the responsible person may incur a fine of $660, and the animal may be sold or otherwise disposed of.
