We love dogs! They are great companions that bring joy to many households, and responsible pet ownership is essential to prevent them from becoming a nuisance to neighbours and the environment.
As a dog owner you are required to:
- register your dog
- microchip your dog
- keep your dog's details up to date
- make sure your dog has its registration tag on in public
- ensure your dog is safely contained to your property
- keep barking and howling under control to not cause a nuisance
- keep your dog on a leash and under effective control unless in a designated off leash area
- carry a supply of dog waste bags to pick up after your dog when out and about
- keep your dog from harming or contacting koalas - special rules apply in designated koala areas
Enforcement action may apply for those not doing the right thing.
How many dogs can be kept per household?
Two. You need an excess animal permit to keep more than two dogs on your property.
A permit holder must comply with the minimum standards or may be liable for an on-the-spot fine or may be required to remove the animals from the property.
Excess animal permit essentials
- Permits are valid for the animals on your property at the time of inspection
- Notify us if you move or add animals
- Fees are non-refundable and must be paid when lodging your application
- We will inspect your property to ensure extra animals are suitable and won't impact neighbours
Apply for an excess animal permit by using the options below:
Amending an excess animals permit
Use our update excess animals permit form to:
- add or remove animals from your existing permit
- update your contact or business details
Breeding dogs on the Gold Coast
If you breed or intend to breed your cat or dog, you will be required to comply with state and local laws.
Find out more by visiting our Keeping and breeding of animals page.