Two Sydney councils want harsher penalties for pet-related offences, claiming there’s been a decline in “pet etiquette,” including owners not picking up their dog’s droppings.
Randwick City Council has submitted an application to the NSW government to review the Companion Animals Act 1998, saying they want bigger fines and harsher penalties for dog owners caught doing the wrong thing.
The application refers to “irresponsible” dog owners, including actions like “off-leash dogs harassing children or wildlife” and “owners neglecting to pick up droppings.”
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They say they’ve seen a significant increase in dog attacks, from 900 reported attacks in 2004 to over 5000 in 2024.
“Submissions from our community highlight a need for clearer rules and etiquette to guide dog handling in shared spaces,” the submission reads.
“Key expectations include keeping dogs under control at all times, respecting other people and animals and cleaning up after pets.
“Unfortunately, these common-sense practices are not universally observed.”
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Cat owners aren’t out of the woods either, with the application saying the council’s goal is to ”move toward a norm of responsible cat ownership”
It says cats should not be allowed to “roam and threaten wildlife or cause a nuisance.”
The council recommended “significantly higher fines” for those caught doing the wrong thing, specifically in instances of a dog attack.
In NSW, the maximum fine a council can issue is $330 for breaking off-leash walking rules, while the fine for not picking up after your dog is $275.
Waverly Council is also considering making the change, arguing tougher penalties are needed, as well as advocating for dog owners to attend pet ownership training classes.
9News.com.au has reached out to Waverly Council for comment.
