Animal fines & penalties

Penalties and fines related to companion animals

As a dog owner you are responsible for the actions of your dog.

This page outlines some of the legislative requirements for owning a dog, in accordance with the Companion Animals Act 1998 and the Companion Animals Regulation 2018.

  • All dogs must be microchipped by 12 weeks of age or earlier if sold or given away
  • All dogs must be lifetime registered by 6 months of age
  • All dogs must wear a collar and identification tag when outside their property
  • A dog that is in a public place must be under the effective control of a competent person at all times, by using an adequate chain, cord or leash that is attached to the dog and that is being held by (or secured to) the person
  • Dogs must not, without provocation, attack or menace a person or animal
  • The owner or person in charge of a dog that defecates in a public place must immediately remove the dog's faeces and properly dispose of them.

Failure to comply with the provisions of the Companion Animals Act 1998 can result in fines and penalties being imposed on the owner of the dog.

Following are some examples of common offences under the Companion Animals Act 1998 and the Companion Animals Regulation 2008, along with their associated penalties as at 1 July 2019.

OffenceOn-the-spot penaltyLocal Court penalty
Animal not registered$305 minimum$880 - $5,500
Dog without a collar and name tag$180 minimum$880 - $5,500
Dog not on lead$330 minimum$1,100 - $11,000
Fail to remove dog faeces$275 minimum$880 maximum
Dog in a prohibited place$330 minimum$1,100 - $11,000
Animal not permanently identified (microchipped)$180 minimum$880 - $5,500
Dog attack$1320 minimum$5,500 - $33,000

You can view the legislation online at the NSW government legislation website.

Last Updated: 25 October 2022
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