Keeping animals

Animal keeping local law regulates:

  • Keeping animals
  • Limits on number of animals per household
  • Keeping poultry
  • Fencing of properties to restrain animals
  • Management of animal litter and amenity issues

Limits on the number of animals

There are limits to the number of animals you can keep.

Residential and industrial zones - maximum animals allowed

  • Dogs: 2
  • Cats: 2 
  • Pigeons and poultry: 10 
  • Roosters: permit required 
  • Horses: permit required 
  • Other agricultural or similar large animals (including, but not limited to cattle, sheep, pigs and goats): permit required  

Commercial zones - maximum animals allowed

  • Dogs: 2
  • Cats: 2 
  • Pigeons and poultry: permit required 
  • Roosters: permit required 
  • Horses: permit required 
  • Other agricultural or similar large animals (including, but not limited to cattle, sheep, pigs and goats): permit required  

Rural zones (not including farming) - maximum animals allowed

  • Dogs: 3
  • Cats: 3 
  • Pigeons and poultry: 10 
  • Roosters: 2 
  • Horses: 2 
  • Other agricultural or similar large animals (including, but not limited to cattle, sheep, pigs and goats): according to planning regulations

Permits for keeping more animals

You can apply for a permit to keep animals in excess of the number listed above.

To apply for a permit complete our online form and download an adjoining landowner and/or occupier consent form to attach to your application.

To get a permit you will need to meet specific conditions, including provision of suitable housing and fencing.