Dog Control Officers and requests for information
A Dog Control Officer may request details including full name, date of birth, address, telephone number and place of work from the owner of a dog or from the person appearing to be in control of the dog. They may also request the name, gender and description of the dog. It is an offence not to provide this information.
Charges and Penalties
Click here for a full list of fees and charges.
Impounding of dogs
Dogs found roaming in any public place may be impounded, whether they are registered or not. To retrieve the animal, fees are levied. If you are concerned about a roaming dog, contact us and Council will arrange for an Animal Control Officer to investigate.
Number of dogs
Only two dogs per residential property are allowed in the South Waikato District. If you wish to keep more than two dogs (aged three months or more) in the residential area you must apply for a permit and have the consent of neighbours. There is a non-refundable application fee. There is no limit for rural properties.
Leash requirement
All dogs must be kept on a leash in any public place except in special designated dog exercise areas. Failure to do so can result in an instant fine. Pamphlets detailing these dog exercise areas are available from the Council offices.
Control of dogs on own property
Your dog must be under the direct control of a person OR confined on the property. Failure to do so could result in an instant fine of $300. On an unfenced property, the dog must be caged or under the direct control of a person. Council has the right to seize and impound any dog if considered appropriate.
Private property
According to legislation, dogs must be kept under control at all times and are not allowed to enter other people's property without permission. Under section 63 of the Dog Control Act 1996, dog owners are liable for any damage caused by their dog to private property.
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