Proposed animal bylaw seeks to address community concerns

Residents are being asked to weigh in on a proposed Keeping of Animals Bylaw, which aims to address community concerns such as animal noise, odours, and the management of cats. The bylaw aims to set clear rules to ensure animals are managed responsibly, without disrupting the well-being of residents.

FNDC hopes the bylaw will provide clear guidelines for animal ownership while balancing the needs of the wider community. The proposed bylaw does not include dogs, which are regulated separately under the council’s Dog Management Policy and the Dog Management Bylaw 2018.

Under the proposal, cats over four months old must be desexed and microchipped to help control stray and feral cat populations. Other key provisions include:

• Animals like bees, chickens, pigs, and horses must be managed in a way that prevents nuisances, protects public health, and avoids property damage.
• Horse droppings in public places within residential, commercial, and industrial zones must be cleaned up.
• Roosters must not be kept in residential and commercial areas.

FNDC is encouraging residents to have their say during the consultation period, which runs until 18 November 2024. Feedback can be provided through an online submission form or by submitting written responses via email, mail, or in person at FNDC service centres.

Public input will be important in shaping the final bylaw, ensuring it reflects the needs and values of the Far North community.

To read the full Statement of Proposal and make a submission, visit fndc.govt.nz/keepingofanimals.

The consultation period closes at 5pm on 18 November 2024.