Palmerston’s new Animal Management By-Laws now in place

The new Animal Management By-Laws developed through community consultation, are now effective as of 1 July 2024. These were designed to enhance the safety and wellbeing of all Palmerston residents, including pet owners, their animals and non-pet owners alike. 

Reflecting community expectations, these modern animal management practices balance tighter restrictions with the safety of the entire community. Creating a safer Palmerston is a shared responsibility.

During the final consultation phase in May and June 2024, the focus was on the Animal Management Policy. This goes hand-in-hand with the By-Laws. The Policy was adopted by Council and in recognition of the feedback received, the introduction of the By-Laws will include: 

• Compulsory registration for cats and dogs as of 1 September 2024.
• Cat fees waived for the first six months and applicable from 1 March 2025.
• Compulsory microchipping for registered cats and dogs, with a six-month grace period from 1 September 2024 to 28 February 2025.
• Maximum of two dogs and two cats per property without a licence.
• Domestic livestock and poultry owners must apply for a Property Identification Code.

City of Palmerston Mayor Athina Pascoe-Bell thanks the community for their patience and participation throughout the consultation process.

"The new Animal Management By-Laws will move us forward as a community to live in harmony with all animals and promote responsible animal ownership and care. We are proud of the work that has been done in collaboration with the community and stakeholders to implement new By-Laws for the first time in 25 years."

"With the By-Laws now in place, Council policies will continue to roll out, allowing us to address community needs related to animal management quickly and effectively,” she said.

The community is encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new By-laws by visiting City of Palmerston’s website and following us on social media. Education programs and supporting initiatives will be made available to help raise  awareness and understanding of what is required to be a responsible pet owner in Palmerston. 

For the love of pets, visit City of Palmerston’s website for more information palmerston.nt.gov.au/by-law-review. 

-ENDS-

Media Contact:
08 8935 9912
media@palmerston.nt.gov.au