Dog and Cat Laws
LEGISLATION FROM 1 JULY 2018
New laws for cat and dog owners and breeders were introduced in South Australia from 1 July 2018. These changes are designed to improve dog and cat management and welfare and are the result of years of planning and public consultation by the Dog and Cat Management Board and the State Government.
Compulsory Desexing
This is compulsory for all dogs and cats born after 1 July 2018. All dogs and cats born after 1 July 2018 must be desexed by the time they reach six (6) months of age or within 28 days of first taking possession of the pet. Exemptions apply under the Act if it is an existing pet born before 1 July 2018.
Compulsory Microchipping
Since 1 July 2018, it is compulsory for all dogs and cats to be microchipped. This applies to all existing dogs and cats. You must microchip your pet before it reaches 12 weeks of age or within 28 days of taking ownership of the pet.
Dogs and Cats Online (DACO)
Since 1 July 2018, Dogs and Cats Online has provided a new way to register your dog or cat along with ways to manage their microchip, health and breeder information: www.dogsandcatsonline.com.au
By-laws
Under the Dog and Cat Management Act 1995, local councils can introduce By-laws for the management of dogs and cats. By-laws are legally enforceable and impact upon all residents and visitors within the Council area from time-to-time.
Dogs By-law 2016
This is a By-law to limit the number of dogs kept on premises and for the management and control of dogs in the Council’s area. In most circumstances a person must not, without the Council's permission, keep or permit to be kept, more than two dogs on any premises. Person's may apply for a permit to keep more than 2 pets. Permit Application form.
Please read the By-law for more detailed information and for additional information regarding:
- Dog on Leash Areas
- Dog Prohibited Areas
- Dog Faeces
Download a copy of the Dogs By-law 2016
Cats By-law 2022
This is a By-law to limit the number of cats kept on premises, to establish a registration scheme for cats and and for the management and control of cats in the Council area. In most circumstances a person must not, without the Council's permission, keep or permit to be kept, more than two cats on any premises. Person's may apply for a permit to keep more than two pets. Permit Application form.
Please read the By-law for more detailed information and for additional information regarding:
- Cat Registration Requirement
- Control of Cats