The Cats By-law has been established to promote responsible cat ownership and enhance community wellbeing throughout the Council area. Its primary aims include protecting native wildlife, safeguarding domestic cats, and reducing disturbances caused by roaming cats.

By requiring cats to remain on their owner’s property unless under effective control, the By-law helps prevent nuisance behaviour and supports a more harmonious neighbourhood environment.

Please note that the Cats By-law applies specifically to owned cats and does not cover stray, unowned, or feral cats. For advice on managing these animals, please see Nuisance cats.

What does the Cats By-law mean for cat owners?

As a cat owner, you must:

• Keep your cat(s) on your property between 10pm and 6am daily, unless they are under effective control - eg on a leash or in a secure enclosure.
• Register your cat(s) through Dogs and Cats Online, South Australia's official pet registration system.
• Ensure your cat(s) wear a collar and identification when outside your property, displaying your name and either your address or contact number.
• Prevent your cat(s) from causing a nuisance to others through excessive noise, odour, urination, or defecation.

The By-law generally limits the number of cats per property to two but you may apply for a permit to keep additional cats.

Supporting compliance with the Cats By-law

We’re committed to helping our community understand and comply with the Cats By-law. Our approach prioritises education and collaboration, working constructively with cat owners and neighbours to resolve concerns fairly and respectfully.

However, if issues persist and no action is taken to address a cat’s behaviour, formal compliance measures may be enforced. These may include issuing orders or fines.

Penalties apply for breaches of the Cats By-law, such as allowing a cat to roam beyond property boundaries during restricted hours. Cat owners may be fined $312.50 per offence.

By following the By-law, you’re helping to create a safer, more considerate environment for both people and pets.

What action will be take?

• Council receives information about a cat wandering outside of the designated span of hours or causing a nuisance
• Our officers will investigate to determine if there is a breach of the By-law and if the cat can be identified.
  • Cat identified with a collar or microchip -  Council officers aim to resolve cat-related concerns through respectful and constructive engagement. This includes working directly with cat owners to address any issues and providing education about their responsibilities under the Cats By-law. Where possible, our focus is on collaboration and awareness before considering formal compliance actions.
  • Unidentified domestic cat -  When investigating reports of nuisance or roaming cats, Council officers may ask residents to provide additional information to assist in identifying the cat’s owner. This could include a description, photo, or details about when and where the cat is typically seen.
    Providing accurate information helps us respond effectively and work towards a resolution.
  • Unidentified non-domestic cat -  Council officers will provide residents with guidance on how to manage stray or feral cats on their property. This includes outlining practical options and strategies to help address the issue in a safe and responsible manner.

To support responsible pet ownership and reduce stray cat populations, the following requirements apply to all cat owners in South Australia:

Microchipping

All cats must be microchipped by 12 weeks of age (3 months), unless exempted by a veterinarian. Cats should also wear a collar and identification tag that includes the owner's name and contact details.

Desexing

Cats born after 1 July 2018 must be desexed by 6 months of age, or within 28 days of being acquired by a new owner. Early-age desexing is recommended - speak with your vet to help prevent unexpected litters.

Why identification matters

Many adult cats brought to shelters appear to be owned but without proper identification they cannot be reunited with their families. Microchipping and visible ID tags are essential for ensuring lost pets find their way home.

Registering a new pet

• All cats must be registered within 3 months of birth or within 2 weeks of becoming the owner.
• Cat registration is currently free in the City of Tea Tree Gully.
• Registration fees will apply from July 2027, with concessions available.
• Renewals are due by 31 August each year. In July, DACO will send a renewal notice via post, email or SMS.

You can complete registration and make payment on Dogs and Cats Online  (DACO), South Australia's official database for registering dogs, cats, and breeders.

What you need before you start

• Microchip number, desexing ID or Transfer Code if applicable.
  • Your cat's microchip number should be provided by your vet, microchip implanter, shelter or breeder. If you don't have a record of the microchip number, contact who you bought or adopted the cat from.
• Desexing, microchipping and training certificates.
• Valid concession card - if applicable.
• Debit or credit card. If you are unable to pay electronically, please visit Council's Civic Centre to complete the registration.

Register your cat

1. Select Register
2. Select Register my new dog / cat
3. Enter Microchip number, Desexing ID or Transfer code and your Surname. If you haven’t been given these details, select Unknown.
4. Check if you have an account. If so, select it and proceed without logging in. If not, continue as a new owner.
5. Ensure your details are correct.
6. Complete registration and pay any applicable fee.

In person or over the phone

You can register your pet over the phone or in person by visiting our Civic Centre, 571 Montague Road, Modbury during business hours.  Phone 8397 7313

Renew or update your pet’s registration

You must update your pet’s DACO record if your cat:

• Passes away
• Is lost for more than three days
• Is rehomed to a new owner
• Is surrendered to the RSPCA, Animal Welfare League, or another shelter

Under the local Cats By-law, households are permitted to keep a maximum of two cats. If you wish to keep more than two cats at your property, you must obtain approval from your local council.

This requirement applies to any new cats that are not registered in the Dogs and Cats Online (DACO) before 17 August 2025. If your cats are already registered in DACO by that date, you do not need to seek council approval to keep them.

Permission may be given if Council is satisfied that:

• no insanitary condition exists on the premises as a result of the keeping of cats
• a nuisance is not caused to any neighbour as a result of the keeping of cats on the premises, and
• all cats kept on the premises are desexed in accordance with any requirements of the Dog and Cat Management Act 1995

The prescribed limit does not apply to prescribed premises which includes:

• a cattery
• a veterinary practice
• a pet shop, or
• any premises for which the Council has granted an exemption.

Apply to keep more than two cats - Fees are payable with this application.

What to do about stray or wandering cats on your property

If cats are frequently entering your property, there are several steps you can take to manage the situation safely and respectfully.

Talk to your neighbour

If you know who owns the cat, try speaking with them directly. Many owners are unaware their cat is causing a nuisance and a friendly conversation can often lead to a quick resolution.

Keeping cats out of your garden

If the cat’s owner is unknown, you can discourage visits by:

• Using water: Gently squirt water near (not at) the cat’s side to startle it. Avoid aiming for the face.
• Making noise: Clap hands or use a loud sound to scare the cat away.
• Keeping areas wet: Cats dislike wet surfaces - watering garden beds in the evening can help.
• Applying scents: Sprinkle citrus peels, cayenne pepper, mustard, vinegar, eucalyptus oil or citronella in problem areas.
• Using commercial repellents: Available from pet stores, nurseries or vets.
• Planting deterrents: Use prickly plants or herbs like rue in frequented spots.
• Installing barriers: Vaseline on fence tops or floppy chicken wire can prevent climbing.
• Trying electronic devices: Motion-activated ultrasonic deterrents may help, though they can affect other wildlife.

When the problem persists

If deterrents don’t work and the cat continues to cause issues, you can report the matter to Council. Please provide:

• a description or photo of the cat
• details of when and where the cat is seen
• any known information about the owner

This helps Council investigate and take appropriate action under the Cats By-law.

Report nuisance cats

Stray cats

Not all roaming cats are strays - many have homes nearby. Feeding unfamiliar cats encourages them to return and can worsen roaming and nuisance behaviours.

Avoid feeding cats that aren’t yours. This can lead to breeding, spread disease and harm wildlife.

Signs a cat may have a home:

• Roams confidently during the day
• Looks clean and healthy
• Isn’t searching for food
• Wears a collar
• Is friendly

If unsure:

• Ask neighbours or check local lost pet groups
• Use a paper collar to ask if the cat has an owner
• Only collar friendly cats

If the cat is a nuisance and you know the owner, talk to them calmly. If unresolved, contact Council.

If no owner is found, take the cat to a vet to check for a microchip. You may choose to adopt, but be ready to desex, microchip, and contain it to your property.

Kittens and pregnant cats

If you find kittens alone, keep your distance—mum may return.

• Young kittens (eyes closed): Monitor for 2 hours before calling AWL.
• Older kittens (eyes open, walking): Monitor for 4 hours.
  Only move them if AWL advises or they’re in danger (cold, wet, sick).

Pregnant cat in labour?

• Give space and stay quiet.
• Try to find the owner (ask neighbours, post online).
• Provide food, water, and shelter if needed.
• Call AWL if no owner is found or for advice when kittens arrive.

Avoid disturbing her - stress can cause rejection of kittens.

Unowned and semi-owned cats

Not all roaming cats are lost. Many are semi-owned - fed and cared for by people who don’t claim ownership. Others are unowned but survive near humans.

Avoid feeding unidentified cats.
Feeding encourages roaming, attracts more unowned cats and can lead to breeding, disease and harm to wildlife.

What to do instead:

• Take the cat to a vet to check for a microchip
• Check local lost pet boards
• If unclaimed, consider adopting - desex, microchip, and keep it contained

Feral cats and responsible ownership

Feral cats are born in the wild, live independently and avoid human contact. Though social with other cats, they are not socialised to people.

Domestic cats can become stray or feral if not properly cared for. Responsible ownership helps prevent this and protects native wildlife.

Tips for cat owners

• Desex your cat to prevent unwanted litters and reduce stray populations.
• Microchip and use ID tags to help reunite lost pets with their owners.
• Keep cats confined indoors or in secure enclosures to protect wildlife and prevent roaming.

How can I keep my cat happy indoors?

Keeping indoor cats entertained and mentally stimulated is simpler than it seems. From toys and scratching posts to climbing structures and cardboard boxes, there are plenty of ways to enrich their environment. Even short play sessions just 5 minutes at a time can make a big difference and easily fit into your daily routine.

How can I make my  home safe for my cat?

It's essential to be mindful of potential dangers within your home. Keep items like rodent poisons, insecticides, medications and toxic foods such as chocolate, onions and garlic safely out of reach. Also, be aware that common plants like lilies can be highly toxic to pets.

How do I keep my cat from leaving my property?

• Keeping them indoors full-time is the simplest and most cost-effective way to keep your cat safe. Installing cat-proof fly screens allows your pet to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the outdoors without the risk of escape. According to the RSPCA, this approach works best with kittens, as older cats used to roaming may experience stress when suddenly confined.
• Providing a secure outdoor enclosure or run is another option that can help your cat adjust more gradually to being indoors. This allows your cat the freedom to choose where they spend their time while staying safe. You can even convert an existing balcony or veranda into an escape-proof space.
• Installing escape-proof fencing around your property is an alternative approach, allowing your cat to roam safely without the risk of wandering off. The RSPCA recommends fences at least two metres high, fitted with rolling cylinders or smooth metal or plastic sheeting at the top to prevent climbing. Under South Australia's Fences Act 1975, any changes to shared fencing must be discussed with your neighbour. Even if you're covering the full cost, you must seek their consent before removing or altering an existing fence, as it is considered jointly owned. If agreement can't be reached, the Act provides a process for mediation or legal resolution.

Helpful resources

There are plenty of useful tools and information available to help you make your property cat-friendly and ensure your cat stays safe, healthy, and happy at home.

• Keeping cats at home - Dog and Cat Management Board
• Good cats play at home - Dog and Cat Management Board
• Roam to home - how to keep cats home - Dog and Cat Management Board
• Safe and happy cats - RSPCA
• Cat confinement tips - RSPCA