Pets and the Law

Below are some guidelines for responsible pet ownership. For a full outline please refer to the Companion Animals Act 1998.

Microchip and Register Your Pet (Dogs and Cats)

• Microchipped by the age of twelve weeks (or earlier if changing hands)
• Registered by the age of six months

Collar and Tag (Dogs Only)

• While on public land it must have a collar and tag displaying its name and a contact phone number or address where it is usually kept

Effective Control (Dogs Only)

• In a public place it must be under the effective control of a competent person by means of an adequate chain, cord or leash unless in an off leash area
• Must be secured at the place it is usually kept
• You are not permitted to walk more than four dogs at any one time

Off Leash Areas (Dogs Only)

• It must always be under effective control of a competent person

Dog Litter

• If your dog defecates in a public place you must remove and dispose of it in a bin

Prohibited Areas (Dogs and Cats)

• Children’s play areas
• Food preparation/consumption areas
• Shopping areas
• All of Warringah’s sporting fields (except for unleashed exercise areas)
• Long Reef Aquatic Reserve
• Car parks and picnic areas at Manly Dam, Jacka Park, Harbord and Dee Why Wildlife Refuge between Dee Why and Long Reef.
• All of Warringah’s beaches, school, pre-school and kindergarten ground and child care centres
• Wildlife protection areas

Safety of Other People and Animals (Dogs Only)

• You must not allow your dog to rush at, chase, harass or attack any person or animal