City of Palmerston one step closer with New Animal Management By-Laws

Following a second round of community consultation, City of Palmerston’s new Animal Management By-Laws are one step closer to be implemented on 1 July 2024.

The community sentiment was positive overall, as Palmerston residents shared their thoughts on the new By-Laws online, over the phone, via email and in-person. 

Feedback from the most recent consultation saw some amendments made to the By-Laws, which now endorsed by Council, will go to Parliamentary Counsel to undertake the gazettal process, with implementation on track for 1 July 2024. Key changes include:

•    Embracing modern and contemporary practices based on community expectations;
•    Provisions for management and ownership of cats and other animals;
•    A review of prescribed penalties in relation to offences;
•    Improvements to licensing requirements and the registration of dangerous animals; and
•    Compulsory microchipping for cats and dogs.

City of Palmerston Mayor, Athina Pascoe-Bell recognises that new, contemporary Animal Management By-Laws are required for Palmerston. "We have worked with stakeholders and utilised community feedback from 2021 and 2024 to develop modern By-Laws that will move us forward as a community to live in harmony with all animals and promote better animal ownership and care.”

"We thank all Palmerston residents who shared their thoughts on the new By-Laws and we are looking forward to creating a positive and safe environment for animals, as well as reducing the risk to the community of nuisance or dangerous animal behaviour.” she said.

For more information and to view the new Animal Management By-Laws, visit HERE.