Excess Animal Permit

How many animals can I keep?

The maximum number of dogs and cats allowed on properties less than 5000sqm is two dogs and two cats.

However, if you live on a property over 5000sqm, you may have up to three dogs and four cats.

If you wish to keep more than the maximum number, you must apply for an Excess Animal Permit.

Please use the table below from the Local Law No 1 Neighbourhood Amenity 2022 as a guideline on the number of animals you can keep.

Excess animal table — These guidelines as determined by Council from time to time are incorporated in the Local Law, to determine what number and types of animals may be kept, whether an offence has occurred and whether to issue a permit to keep excess animals.

These guidelines as determined by Council from time to time are incorporated in the Local Law, to determine what number and types of animals may be kept, whether an offence has occurred and whether to issue a permit to keep excess animals.

How to apply for an Excess Animal Permit

Please complete the form below and ensure all sections of the application are completed with the required documents attached. Please email applications to local.laws@basscoast.vic.gov.au or hand in your application at one of our customer service centres.

To see the relevant costs associated with this permit, please visit our Fees and Charges page.

Excess Animal Permit Application Form PDF (604 KB)

Domestic Animal Business Permits

If you intend to breed, board or open a pet shop or animal shelter then you'll likely need a Domestic Animal Business Permit and/or a planning permit.