Responsible Dog Ownership

As a responsible dog owner you must abide with all relevant legislations and be accountable for the welfare of your dog and the environment. Failure to comply may result in infringements being issued in excess of $200 and further legal proceedings may be considered. Dog owners must:

1. Abide with the Dog Act 1976

2. Microchip their dog

3. Register their dog with the City of Cockburn.

Dog owner responsibilities

• All dogs over three months of age must have a microchip and have current registration

• Dog registrations cannot be accepted without a microchip

• Ensure your dog wears a collar and registration tag when in a public place

• Ensure your dog's collar includes your name and address (owner)

• Do not have more than two dogs per property unless permission is granted

• Engage and train your dog so that its behaviour does not become a nuisance

• Remove your dog’s excreta from public places such as beaches, parks and paths

• Maintain your dog’s cleanliness and hygiene to prevent parasites

• Observe special conditions for owning a greyhound or a restricted breed opens in a new window dog

• Ensure your dog is under control at all times, including in dog off leash areas, rural, and public properties

Guidelines for dogs in Cockburn

• Must be kept on a leash in most public places

• Dogs are permitted off leash in certain areas
• ​Dogs should not enter shops and school grounds​

Dog excreta (poo)

If your dog excretes on a street or a public place, you must remove and appropriately dispose of it. The City of Cockburn has installed waste bins, dog pooch dispensers at many parks locations to assist pet owners with appropriate disposal.

If your local park does not have this facility or if your park has run out of dog pooch bags, please contact the City directly.

Failure to remove excreta may result in a $100 penalty. 

More information and contact 

Please contact Rangers Services for more information on 08 9411 3444 or email Ranger Customer Service.