Owning other animals

Photo of four chickens

Overview

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:

Limits on pets and farm animals 

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

 

Keep your animals confined

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.

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