Application to keep livestock

Depending on the type and number of animals you wish to keep and the size of your property, you may require a permit. This applies to livestock and other animals such as reptiles, poultry and other birds.

To determine if a permit is required, see our information on owning animals.

Fees

The application fee for a permit to keep livestock is $125.70. This amount is correct as of 1 July 2026.

After your permit application is received, an invoice will be generated and emailed to you. This email will contain instructions on how to pay.

Apply online

Step 1.Prepare a diagram of the area to be used by the animals

Prepare a diagram showing:

  • the area the animals will be kept
  • the size of the property, all buildings, enclosures and animal housing
  • where the area and any enclosures or animal housing are in relation to neighbouring properties.

Step 2.Seek permission from the property owner

If you are not the property owner, you will need signed written permission from the property owner. This will be uploaded with your application.

Step 3.Submit the online form

Apply for a permit to keep livestock

In person

Step 1.Download the form

Download the application for a permit to keep livestock(PDF, 333KB).

Step 2.Complete the application form

With your application, you'll need to provide:

  • the number and type of animals
  • a diagram of the area where the animals will be kept.

Step 3.Attend the customer service desk

Civic Centre
32 Civic Drive
Greensborough

Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm (excluding public holidays).

Step 4.Pay the application fee

Pay with cash, cheque, money order, EFTPOS, Mastercard or Visa. We do not accept Diners Club and American Express.

Mail

Step 1.Download the application form

Download the application for a permit to keep livestock(PDF, 333KB).

Step 2.Complete the application form

With your application, you'll need to provide:

  • the number and type of animals
  • a diagram of the area where the animals will be kept

Step 3.Prepare a cheque or money order

Payable to 'Nillumbik Shire Council' and crossed 'Not Negotiable'.

Step 4.Mail your completed form

Nillumbik Shire Council
PO Box 476
Greensborough VIC 3088

What happens next?

  • After we receive your application, an invoice will be emailed to you. This email will contain instructions on how to pay the application fee.
  • Your neighbours are notified - we'll let your neighbours know about your request and give them the opportunity to comment.
  • A Community Safety Officer will be in contact to discuss further and arrange an inspection onsite.
  • Council assesses your application. The processing time for this permit is three weeks - this may be extended up to eight weeks if submissions are received from neighbouring properties.
  • We'll let you know if your application has been approved. We'll also contact you if we have any questions. 

Contact us

Phone

9433 3111

Email

nillumbik@nillumbik.vic.gov.au

Location

Civic Centre
32 Civic Drive
Greensborough
3088
View map

Starting an animal business?

This is not the permit for you.

 

If you are keeping animals for a business purpose, you will need to read about starting a domestic animal business.

Permit criteria

To find out more about how Council makes a decision about this permit, read the Nillumbik General Local Law 1 Procedure and Protocol Manual.

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