Dogs make a valuable contribution to our families and the local community, however all dog owners have responsibilities under the Dog Control Act 2000 and related regulations. These legal guidelines set out expectations for the management of dogs. If you need any advice on any aspect of the legislation relating to dogs, please contact the council on (03) 6211 8200.
Dog Management Policy
The Kingborough Dog Management Policy was endorsed at the 4 December 2023 Council Meeting. The Policy and maps can be viewed and downloaded below.
Dog Management Policy, December 2023
Dog Owner’s Handbook
Kingborough Council, in collaboration with the Kingborough Dog Walking Association, have together developed an informative Dog Owner’s Handbook. The handbook contains valuable information from choosing a dog to responsible dog management.
Registration
All dogs over the age of six months must be registered, and the dog registration fees are due on 1 July every year.
No more than two dogs can be kept on a property unless a licence to keep several dogs has been issued or they are ‘working dogs’ used for driving or tending of livestock, detecting illegal substances, searching, tracking or rescuing or working with Police.
To register your dog, please see our Dog Registration Form (PDF).
Dog Registration Applications can be paid either over the phone (6211 8200) using a credit card, or at the Civic Centre, 15 Channel Hwy, Kingston.
Dog Registration Renewal Notices can be paid either over the phone (6211 8200) or online via BPOINT using a credit card, or at the Civic Centre, 15 Channel Hwy, Kingston.
Changing registration details
If you move, change dog ownership, or your dog passes away, you need to let us know within 14 days. You send through the new details using the online Change of Dog Registration details form.
Kennel licences
If you would like to set up a kennel, you will need to apply for a Kennel Licence. Information on what is required and the application form can be found in the Kennel Licence Application Pack (PDF).
Taking care of your dog
It is your responsibility to ensure that your dog is properly cared for. This includes the following guidelines:
- Making sure that your dog doesn’t roam during the day or night.
- When you take your dog for a walk it must be kept under effective control and on a lead of no longer than two metres in built up areas.
- Dog must be in sight of their owner at all times and responsive to a command.
- You must always clean up your dog’s poo.
Nuisance dogs
Owners must ensure that a dog is not a nuisance. Ensure that your dog does not cause a nuisance by barking excessively.
Nuisance Dog Information and Complaint Form (PDF)
More information about taking care of your dog
Dog Control Act 2000 (External link)
Lost dogs
If your dog is lost, we recommend you take the following steps to try to find it:
- search your property
- check around your neighbourhood and speak to your neighbours
- call Kingborough Council on (03) 6211 8200 (during business hours), or report it using our online form.
- call your local vets
- contact Dogs’ Home of Tasmania – (03) 6243 5177
- advertise with flyers.
Reporting a lost dog by phone – please provide us with:
- your name, address and the dogs registration tag number
- your dog’s microchip number (if known)
- a description of your dog – distinguishing marks, colour or features
- the colour of its collar
- your dog’s name and age.
NOTE: Please remember to notify the above persons when you have found your dog.
If a dog is wearing its registration tag, it can be easily returned to the owner. If the owner is unable to be contacted, the dog will be taken to the pound. (See information on impounded dogs.)
Prevent your dog becoming lost by making sure:
- they have a secure backyard to play in
- gates close and lock automatically behind you
- your dogs are microchipped and registered
- you spend lots of time playing and exercising your dog
- your pet has a safe place to hide away from loud noises
- you choose a dog that is suitable for your situation.
Found dogs
If you have found and secured a stray dog, a Council Officer can collect the dog from you. Alternatively, you may care for the dog until the owner is found. Please call Customer Service on (03) 6211 8200.
Impounded dogs
Your dog will be impounded if it is found roaming the streets. If it is wearing its registration tag or has been micro-chipped, we will try to advise you and arrange collection.
Unidentified dogs are impounded for three working days.
Unclaimed registered dogs are impounded for five working days.
Our current impounded dogs are listed on the Kingborough Council Facebook page.
Dog release
If your dog has been impounded, please contact Customer Service on 6211 8200 to arrange release.
You can collect dogs between 9am to 4pm business days from the rear of the Civic Centre, 15 Channel Highway, Kingston. You MUST show photo ID to collect your dog and pay the fees.
Fees and charges apply for impounded dogs
Contact Council, prior to attending and collecting your dog, to be advised of any fees/charges that will apply. Pound fees must be paid prior to the dog being released. Please be advised that infringements, in addition to the pound fees, may be issued in accordance with provisions of the Dog Control Act 2000.
