Excess animal permit
When you need an Excess Animal permit?
You are able to keep the following number of pets at your residence without a permit from Council:
|
Type of animal |
Maximum allowed in a premises (other than a flat, unit, apartment or townhouse) |
Maximum allowed in a flat, unit, apartment or townhouse |
|
Dogs (over 3 months old) |
2 |
1 |
|
Cats (over 3 months old) |
2 |
1 |
|
Chickens (hens) |
4 |
0 |
|
Domestic birds – caged non-poultry |
15 |
5 |
|
Pigeons (non-racing) |
5 |
0 |
|
Pigeons (racing) |
20 |
0 |
|
Ferrets |
2 |
1 |
|
Guinea pigs, rabbits, rats or mice |
4 of one species or 6 in total |
2 of one species or 4 in total |
If you are wanting to keep additional animals on your property, you must apply for an Excess Animal permit from Council.
If you are wanting more than the number of permitted dogs or cats, you must apply for an Excess Animal permit first before you can purchase or register the animals.
Please note that all dogs and cats must still be registered with Council.
You must follow the conditions of the Excess Animal permit. You may be issued an infringement if you breach the permit conditions and the permit may be revoked.
You do not need a Excess Animal permit for fish.
Why you need an Excess Animal permit
An Excess Animal permit makes sure that pet owners provide adequate accommodation and safeguard their pets' health and well-being.
All pet owners must look after their animals as instructed in the Domestic Animals Act 1994.
Permit fee
The 2020-21 fee for an Excess Animal permit is $61.40. Permit is issued for a 5 year period.
How to apply for an Excess Animal permit
By email or mail
- Complete the Excess Animal permit application form (DOC 64Kb).
- Scan and submit the application form online (attention Amenity and Compliance).
- Alternatively you can mail the application form and copies of documentation to Merri-bek City Council, Locked Bag 10, Merri-bek 3058.
Visit Council
- Complete the Excess Animal permit application form (DOC 64Kb). The form is also available from any Council Customer Service Centre.
- Lodge your completed application at a Council Customer Service Centre.
What happens after you apply
When Council has received your application, a Council Officer will contact you to arrange a time to visit your home.
When the Council Officer visits, they will check that your home is suitable to keep extra animals and that existing dogs and cats at your property are registered with Council and properly cared for.
Council advises you in writing if your application is approved or rejected.
If your application is approved, an invoice will be issued for the fee of $61.40. Payment methods, including online payment, are provided on the invoice.
A permit is issued once payment is received and registration of your animals is confirmed.