Redland City Council will consult with the community about a proposed change to animal management local laws covering the number of dogs able to be kept on residential properties.

Mayor Karen Williams said a local law amendment to allow up to four dogs in special circumstances would be the appropriate vehicle to bring Council in line with pet regulations in neighbouring local government areas.

“Council’s Local Laws undergo a continual process of review to provide the best outcomes for both the community and for Council,” she said.

“This local law impacts many residents and community consultation will allow everyone to have their say on the number of dogs able to be kept under special circumstances.

“Today’s decision acknowledges the fact that Redlands Coast residents have dogs for a whole range of reasons, including companionship, showing and fostering.”

Under current laws, all properties are able to keep two dogs, or three with a permit.

Should the changes go ahead, up to four dogs could be kept on a single dwelling property if they were show dogs, agility dogs or dogs in foster care.

Based on property size alone, an extra dog would be able to be kept on properties from 2,001 to 10,000 m2 without a permit, and a fourth with a permit.

For properties more than 10,000 m2, four dogs could be kept without a permit.

Deputy Mayor Julie Talty – who tabled a notice of motion last December requesting that officers consider options available to change the number of dogs allowed – said she had acted on specific representations made to her by residents.

“People have called for an increase to the number of dogs able to be kept on a property, based on property size and other special circumstances,” Cr Talty said.

“Community consultation will give Redlands Coast residents the opportunity to consider their position and make a submission on the proposed changes.

“I encourage everyone to have their say during the 35-day period.

“All properly-made submissions will be considered following community consultation.”

All dogs kept on Redlands Coast properties must be registered with Council and have their registration renewed annually.

Any changes resulting from the upcoming review and consultation process will be reflected in amendments to Subordinate Local Law no. 2 (Animal Management) 2015 and Subordinate Local Law No. 1.5 (Keeping of Animals) 2015.

To have your say on this issue, go to yoursay.redland.qld.gov.au during the consultation period, 31 May 2021 to 8 July 2021.

Written submissions can be delivered to Council’s mainland customer service centres or posted to City Council, PO Box 21, Cleveland Qld 4163. They must be received by 8 July 2021 to be considered.

The proposed amendment will also be available for viewing at Council’s mainland customer service centres and on the Your Say page.