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.