If you own pets or farm animals (other than a dog or cat) in Nillumbik, you will need to meet some state and local government requirements. These requirements help:
- keep your animals safe
- prevent your animals from being a nuisance to the community
- ensure public safety.
To find out about the requirements for dogs and cats, see:
Depending on the type and number of animals you wish to keep, and the size of your property, you may require a permit.
Animal type |
How many |
Land size |
Permit required? |
Reptiles |
5 or less |
Less than 4000sqm |
Yes |
Reptiles |
5 or less |
More than 4000sqm |
No |
Reptiles |
More than 5 |
Any |
Yes |
Rodents |
5 or less |
Less than 4000sqm |
Yes |
Rodents |
5 or less |
More than 4000sqm |
No |
Rodents |
More than 5 |
Any |
Yes |
Large birds |
10 or less |
Less than 4000sqm |
Yes |
Large birds |
10 or less |
More than 4000sqm |
No |
Large birds |
More than 10 |
Any |
Yes |
Small birds |
25 or less |
Less than 4000sqm |
Yes |
Small birds |
25 or less |
More than 4000sqm |
No |
Small birds |
More than 25 |
Any |
Yes |
Poultry |
24 or less |
Less than 4000sqm |
Yes |
Poultry |
24 or less |
More than 4000sqm |
No |
Poultry |
More than 24 |
Any |
Yes |
Rooster |
1 |
Less than 4000sqm |
Yes |
Rooster |
1 |
More than 4000sqm |
No |
Rooster |
More than 1 |
Any |
Not allowed |
You will also need to apply to Council for a livestock permit to keep pets or farm animals if your property is zoned residential, regardless of the size of the property or the number of animals.
Apply for a permit to keep livestock
You are legally required to keep your pets and farm animals confined to your property. This means your property must have:
- a closed gate that your animals cannot jump, get under or through
- an escape-proof fence that your animals cannot jump, get under or through.
If you don't confine your animals, you may get a fine or your animals could be impounded.