Animals in the City

This City's Animals Local Law 1999 addresses the most common animals that residents are likely to keep.

Dogs

A person may only keep two dogs unless they have received specific approval from this local government to keep more. Dogs must be registered under the provisions of the Dog Act. The local law also addresses various matters regarding kennel establishments. A brochure on good dog ownership is available from the City upon request.

Cats

New legislation has been introduced relating to cat ownership.

Birds and Poultry

Before a person can keep pigeons on a property, they must apply to the City for a permit, and obtain written opinion of their neighbours, which will be taken into account when the decision to permit pigeon keeping is made.  Consideration must also be given to the number of pigeons, loft construction and flight times. Pigeon keepers are also obliged to pay an annual registration to the City.

A person may not keep ostriches or emus on residential or commercial land but may do so on special rural land under certain conditions. A person may keep up to 12 poultry in a residential area, but they must be housed permanently in a specially constructed hut.  The hut must be nine metres from dwellings and any street as well as one metre off the boundaries.  Please contact your local Environmental Health Officer where you can receive more detailed information on the construction requirements. Please note that roosters, turkeys, geese, peacocks and peahens are prohibited in all residential areas.

Bees

Generally, bee keeping in residential areas is not permitted. For further information visit the Department of Environment and Conservation website. 

Miniature Pigs and Horses

Miniature pigs and horses may be kept in a residential area with prior local government approval and upon an annual licence being obtained. There are restrictions and requirements under the City's Animals Local law 1999 for keeping a miniature pig or horse. Keeping a large animal such as a horse, pig or sheep is prohibited in most areas of Joondalup.

Wildlife

From time to time, wildlife such as kangaroos find their way on the City’s roads which can potentially be harmful to the animal.  It can also cause a danger to others, particularly road users that may not see or be aware of the animal on a road. In instances where wildlife is seen on roads, it is recommended that contact be made with the Department of Environment and Conservation on 1800 449 453 or 9474 9055 or the WA Police on 131 444, so that the animal can be removed or the traffic hazard identified.