It is your responsibility to care for your pet and make sure it is not a nuisance to other people or animals.
There are a range of local laws that relate specifically to the number of animals on a property, confining your pet, animal noise, etc.
Below is an outline of the most common laws we get asked about. For full details, refer to Greater Dandenong Local Law No. 2 (General Local Law) - 470.6KB.
Number of animals
Only a certain types of animals can be kept on a residential property less than half a hectare in size. There is also a limit of the number of animals (per type) you can keep without a permit.
More information on animal numbers and keeping extra animals
Animal odours
If you have any complaints regarding animal odours on a property, please contact Council or submit an online report for a local law officer to investigate.
Confining your animal
Dogs
It is a dog owner's responsibility to ensure their dog is confined to their premises. If a dog is able to leave the property of its own accord, the owner is then considered 'guilty of an offence' and is liable to a penalty, even if the dog has not left the property.
When a dog does leave the property, it should be on a leash at all times (unless in a dog off-leash park).
It is also an offence for a dog to enter onto the land of another person without that person's permission. Different penalties apply depending on whether the offence was committed in the day or night.
Cats
It is also an offence for a cat to enter onto the land of another person without that person's permission. Different penalties apply depending on whether the offence was committed in the day or night.
Barking dogs
Dogs bark for a variety of reasons and it is important to find out why and then try to resolve the issue in a friendly manner wherever possible. However, if the barking continues to be an issue, Council can investigate.
To find out more about how to deal with barking dogs, please see our Animal Complaints page.
Dog attacks
If a dog rushes at, attacks, bites, or chases any person or other animal, the owner can be liable for any damage caused by the conduct of that dog. If you are the victim of a dog attack, contact Council on 8571 1000 immediately.
Find out how many animals you can keep on a residential property.