Cat Registrations

Registrations periods run from 1 November to 31 October each year. The expiry date of this registration is shown on the front of the form and can also be found on your cat’s registration tag.

First time one year registrations received on or after 1 June each year are subject to a 50% concession on the fees set out below.

All cats aged six months and over must be sterilised, microchipped and registered. A penalty of $200 may apply.

Cats must at all times wear a current registration tag attached to their collar. This will help us reunite you with your cat should it become lost.

It is important to remember to notify the Shire of Kojonup immediately of any change of address or ownership of the cat, even if that change occurs outside the Shire of Kojonup.

Fees (As Per Legislation)

Category	1 Year	3 Years	Lifetime
Cat	$20	$42.50	$100
Pensioners	Half Price

To register your cat or dog, please complete the form below and send to council@kojonup.wa.gov.au.

Register your pet

For more information about Cats and Dogs from the Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety please see here

Dog Registrations

Registrations periods run from 1 November to 31 October each year. The expiry date of this registration is shown on the front of the form and can also be found on your dog’s registration tag.

First time one year registrations received on or after 1 June each year are subject to a 50% concession on the fees set out below.

All dogs aged three months and over must be registered. A penalty of $200 may apply.

Dogs must at all times wear a current registration tag attached to their collar, together with a tag bearing the owner’s name and current address. This will help us reunite you with your dog should it become lost.

It is important to remember to notify the Shire of Kojonup immediately of any change of address or ownership of the dog, even if that change occurs outside the Shire of Kojonup.

Retired racing greyhounds are not required to wear a muzzle in public if they have successfully completed an approved training program.

Fees (As Per Legislation)

Category	1 Year	3 Years	Lifetime
Sterilised	$20	$42.50	$100
Unsterilised	$50	$120	$250
Bonifide Stock	¼ of Payable Fee
Pensioners	Half Price

Dogs must be on a lead at all times while in public areas.

To register your cat or dog, please complete the form below and send to council@kojonup.wa.gov.au.

Register your pet

For more information about Cats and Dogs Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety please see here

Responsible Dog Ownership

If you own a dog, you have a responsibility to ensure that your pet is well looked after and that you respect other people in the community by taking measures to prevent your pet creating a nuisance.

Dog owners need to ensure that:

• dogs are confined on the owner’s property.
• dogs are tethered, on a lead and under control when in public places.
• dogs do not behave aggressively towards people or other animals.
• dogs don’t bark excessively; and
• owners pick up their dog’s droppings and dispose of the waste appropriately.

Being a responsible dog owner also means making sure that your dog is registered and microchipped. This is not only a legal requirement but it makes it much easier for lost dogs to be reunited with their owners.

The Dog Act 1976 places responsibilities for the control of dogs on West Australian dog owners. For more information, please follow the link here.

Dog Registration

Microchipping

Dogs aged 3 months or older must be microchipped, unless a certificate has been provided by a veterinarian stating that microchipping may adversely affect the health and welfare of the dog.

Registration

Dogs over the age of three months must be registered. The dog must also be microchipped before it can be registered (unless exempt).

Dogs must wear a collar with the registration tag attached to the collar. This will significantly improve the chances of lost dogs being reunited with their owners.

Working dog concession (75% discount on the non-discounted fees below) is available to registered primary producers or persons using dogs for the droving or tending of stock. (Proof of primary producer status may be required.) Retired farm dogs are not exempt.

Sterilisation of Dogs

It is not a legal requirement to have your dog sterilised, however discounts apply to the registration of sterilised dogs.

If you have your dog sterilised after registering it as unsterilised, part of the registration fee paid may be refunded.

Transfer or Cancellation of Dog Registration

Transfer of Dog Registration

If you sell or give your dog to another person, you and the new owner will need to complete a new dog registration.

It does not cost anything to transfer ownership of a registered dog and the remaining registration period will be transferred to the new owner.

Transfer of Non-microchipped Dogs

Dogs must be microchipped before ownership is transferred, unless a certificate has been provided by a veterinarian stating that microchipping may adversely affect the health and welfare of the dog.

Transfer of Microchipped Dogs:

Within seven days of the transfer of the microchipped dog, the seller must notify the microchip database company of the name and address of the new owner of the dog, and of any other changes (you must also advise the local government of the transfer).

Transfer of Dangerous Dogs

A restricted breed dangerous dog cannot be transferred to another owner unless there are exceptional circumstances. A declared dangerous dog must not be transferred to a person under the age of 18. For more information please contact the Rangers on ranger@kojonup.wa.gov.au

Cancellation of Dog Registration

If you wish to cancel your dog's registration, please contact the Shire Administration Office. Please note that no refunds are issued for cancellation of dog registrations.

Limit on Number of Dogs

The limit on the number of dogs that can be kept in the Shire of Kojonup (without a permit) are:

• on premises situated within the gazetted townsite – 2 dogs over the age of 3 months and the young of those dogs; or
• on premises situated outside the gazetted townsite – 6 dogs over the age of 3 months and the young of those dogs.

If you wish to keep more than two dogs on a property within the gazetted townsite, you need to apply for a permission from the Shire of Kojonup.

As part of the approval process, all abutting neighbours must be contacted to ensure they do not object to the application. If objections are received, the Shire may be unable to approve your request.

Properties may be inspected by a Ranger to determine if the property is suitable for keeping more than two dogs. Where complaints have been received about the dogs, requests may not be supported by the Shire.

If you wish to keep more than 6 dogs you will need to apply for a Kennel license.

Control of Dogs

Dogs in Public Places

• When dogs are in a public place they must be held on a leash (maximum length of 2 metres) or harness by a person who is capable of controlling the dog, or be securely tethered.
• A dog must also wear a collar with its registration tag attached when out in public.
• Dogs are only permitted on private property with the consent of the property occupier or owner.
• Rangers may seize and impound dogs that are uncontrolled in public, or dogs that are pursued by the Ranger that run onto a private property without the consent of the property owner or occupier.

Fencing Requirements

• Property occupiers are responsible for ensuring that the fences will securely keep the dog contained within the property.
• The fence should prevent the dog from passing over, or going under or through it.
• When the dog is on the premises any gate within the fenced area should be kept closed and be fitted with a locking mechanism.
• Please note that specific requirements exist for securely containing a dangerous dog.
• If you require a fence inspection, please contact the Ranger through the Shire.

Dog Exercise Areas

There are no public dog exercise areas in Kojonup, dogs must be on a lead or tethered in a public place

Barking Dogs

Barking is normal dog behaviour, however living near a dog that barks excessively can be disruptive.

The Shire recommends that in the first instance you talk to the owner of the dog. Often dog owners are usually not aware that their dog is barking, especially if they work away from home during the day.

It can be useful to note when the dog barks and if you observe any triggers (e.g. if the dog barks at passers-by). This helps establish the severity of the problem and identifies any patterns which can be used to determine the reason why the dog is barking.

If you don't feel comfortable approaching your neighbour, or if the problem continues, then Rangers may investigate the issue. You can provide the details at the Shire & fill in a nuisance complaint form.

Action by Rangers

The actions that local governments can take to deal with nuisance barking are determined by the Dog Act 1976.

The Ranger firstly needs to be satisfied that the barking behaviour is in fact a nuisance. Follow up actions may include a Ranger talking to neighbours and observing barking behaviour and we may ask you to keep a formal record of the barking.

If the Ranger establishes that the barking is causing a nuisance a noise abatement order, which requires the owner to prevent the dog making the noise, may be issued. This notice has effect for six months.

If the owner does not comply with the notice an infringement notice may be issued or prosecution may commence.

More Information

If your dog barks excessively, please contact the Shire Administration Office to complete a nuisance report.

Dog Attacks

Dog attacks can have serious consequences. The dog owner and the person in charge of the dog at the time of an attack may be held accountable. The Shire takes dog attacks seriously and may prosecute any dog owner whose dog has committed an attack on a person or animal.

A dog attack does not need to cause physical injury and includes the following dog behaviour:

• aggressively rushing at or harassing any person or animal,
• biting, or otherwise causing physical injury to a person or animal,
• tearing clothing or causing damage to the property of the person attacked, or
• attempting to attack or behaving in a manner that would cause a person to fear physical injury.

Under the Dog Act 1976, it is an offence for a dog to attack, attempt to attack or aggressively harass a person or animal.

Dog attacks may lead to infringements being issued to the dog owner and/or the person responsible for the dog at the time of the attack. In more serious cases, court action may be taken. The maximum penalty for a dog attack is $10,000.

If you are a victim of a dog attack, please report the incident to the Shire of Kojonup immediately. Required details may include the date, time, and location of attack and a description of the offending dog and owner. Please keep copies of any medical treatment required as a result of the attack and in some instances photographic evidence may be required.

Dog Attacks on Livestock

Dog attacks on livestock is considered a serious offence and substantial penalties may be incurred by owners of dogs.

If a dog is in an enclosed paddock or yard with livestock, the property owner may lawfully destroy the dog. If this action occurs, the Police must be advised as soon as practicable.

We strongly advise you contact the Shire prior to undertaking this course of action.

Dangerous Dogs

Owners of a restricted breed dog, or a dog that has been declared dangerous by a local government must abide by the stringent laws that are in place to protect the community.

If you own a restricted breed dog (see below) or a dog crossed with a restricted breed, you need to declare this on the application form when you register your dog for the first time, or renew its registration.

Penalties for breaches of the Dog Act 1976 by a dangerous dog are double those which apply to other dogs.

Declared Dangerous Dogs

A local government may declare a dog dangerous if it has caused injury or damage by an attack on, or chasing, a person, animal or vehicle or if a dog has repeatedly shown a tendency to attack or chase causing no injury.

Protection Measures

Under the Act, dangerous dogs (including restricted breeds) must:

• wear a special collar that identifies it as a dangerous dog
• be confined in an enclosure that prevents its escape; its release without permission; and a child aged less than 7 years from entering or inserting part of his or her body
• be sterilised (restricted breeds only)
• be microchipped
• be muzzled and under the control of an adult capable of controlling the dog if outside of its enclosure.
• A prescribed warning sign must be erected at each entrance to the premises where a restricted breed dog is kept.

Lost and Found Cats and Dogs

Impoundments fees:

Pound Fees - Weekdays
Surrender of a cat or dog	$                  125.00
Destruction and disposal of dog	$                  125.00
Seizure of a cat or dog without impounding	$                    75.00
Seizure of a complaint cat or dog without impounding	$                    37.50
Seizure and impounding of a cat or dog	$                  110.00
Seizure and impounding of a complaint cat or dog	$                    55.00
Sustenance Fee (per day or part thereof)	$                    20.00
Dog Trap - Daily Hire	$                    10.00
Dog Trap - Refundable Deposit	$                  100.00
Disposal of large animal carcasses	$                  150.00
Pound Fees - Weekends/After Hours
Seizure of a cat or dog without impounding	$                  130.00
Seizure of a complaint cat or dog without impounding	$                    65.00
Seizure and impounding of a cat or dog	$                  180.00
Seizure and impounding of a complaint cat or dog	$                    90.00

All fees need to be paid before the cat or dog is released.

If a cat or dog is impounded, it needs to be registered and microchipped prior to release.

If your cat or dog is missing, please contact the Shire Administration Office as soon as possible to check if it has been impounded.

Cruelty to Animals

Cruelty to Animals

The Shire of Kojonup is home to a strong farming and pastoral community, and the welfare of animals — whether livestock, working dogs, or family pets — is something we all share a responsibility for.

What constitutes cruelty?

Cruelty to animals includes torturing, mutilating, beating, wounding, abusing, tormenting or mistreating an animal, as well as working, driving, riding or using an animal when it is not fit to be used, or in a manner that causes unnecessary harm. Abandonment of an animal is also an offence under the Act.

Reporting animal cruelty

If you witness or suspect animal cruelty in our community, please report it promptly. To report cruelty, call the RSPCA on 1300 278 358, or make a report online at rspcawa.org.au. RSPCA WA

Cruelty complaints are investigated by RSPCA inspectors and the Livestock Compliance Unit, who respond to complaints and carry out compliance and enforcement actions.

Your duty of care

All animal owners and keepers have a duty of care to provide adequate food, water, shelter and veterinary attention where needed. If you are unsure of your obligations, contact the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) or visit the RSPCA WA website for guidance.

Together, we can ensure Kojonup remains a place where animals are treated with the care and respect they deserve.

In Western Australia, the Animal Welfare Act 2002 establishes the responsibilities of persons keeping or working with animals and sets out offences relating to cruelty to animals. The Act covers all amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals other than humans.

Council Rangers are not permitted to handle animal welfare issues.

Please contact the RSPCA on 1300 CRUELTY (1300 278 358)  or fill out their online cruelty report form if you feel the welfare of an animal is at risk.

Illegal Camping

The Shire of Kojonup welcomes visitors who come to enjoy our beautiful region, however camping is only permitted in designated areas.

The Kojonup Rest Area (RV Area) allows stays of up to three nights for $5 per night, with potable water and a dump point available. Alternatively Kojonup host a beautifull Caravan Park which provides a comfortable and affordable base, with powerd and unpowered sites, modern amenities,and a friendly atmosphere that reflects the warmth of our community. 

Camping on roadsides, in public reserves, on Crown land, or on private property without the landowner's permission is illegal and may result in fines of up to $5,000 under local government laws.

The Local Government Act 1995 empowers local governments to make local laws they consider necessary for good governance, with a maximum penalty of $5,000 applying.

Shire Rangers actively patrol the area and will issue infringements where necessary.

We ask that all visitors plan ahead, use approved camping facilities, and help us keep Kojonup clean and welcoming for everyone.

For information on approved camping locations, please contact the Shire office on (08) 9831 2400 or visit our website.

Litter

The Shire of Kojonup is a community that takes pride in its clean streets, beautiful landscapes and natural environment. Littering — whether it's a cigarette butt tossed from a car window, rubbish left at a rest stop, or waste dumped in the bush — is not only unsightly but harmful to our environment, wildlife and community amenity. We all have a role to play in keeping Kojonup tidy.

It's Against the Law

Throwing or dropping litter, even unintentionally, is an offence under the Litter Act 1979. Dumping rubbish of any kind on land not specified as a waste facility is also considered littering and attracts the same penalties.

The maximum penalties for littering offences are $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for corporations. Illegal dumping may be prosecuted under the Environmental Protection Act 1986, carrying a maximum penalty of $62,500 for individuals and $125,000 for corporate bodies.

Fines for littering from vehicles start at $500 for individuals, and cigarette butt littering attracts fines of $200 for individuals and $500 for corporations. In cases of littering from vehicles where the litterer cannot be identified, the registered owner of the vehicle will be deemed responsible. 

Reporting Litter

Littering infringements can be issued by authorised officers including police officers and local government rangers. To report illegal dumping, contact the illegal dumping hotline on 1300 766 541.

Do the Right Thing

• Use public bins and take your rubbish with you if no bin is available
• Secure loads on trailers and utes so nothing blows off in transit
• Dispose of cigarette butts responsibly — never toss them from a vehicle
• If you see illegal dumping, report it

Together, we can keep Kojonup the beautiful community we're proud to call home.

Please call the Shire office on 9831 2400 or email council@kojonup.wa.gov.au to report any litter complaints.

Litter Fact Sheet

Vehicle Control

The Shire of Kojonup is committed to keeping our streets, reserves and public spaces safe, accessible and attractive for residents and visitors alike. Abandoned vehicles and unlawful parking are not just an eyesore — they can create safety hazards, obstruct traffic and impact the amenity of our community.

Abandoned Vehicles

The act of dumping or abandoning a disused vehicle on a road, verge or reserve is considered littering and is an offence under Western Australia's Litter Act 1979. It is also an offence under the Local Government Act 1995 to leave or abandon a vehicle in a public place, on a carriageway or in a road reserve for more than 24 hours.

Abandoning a vehicle is illegal. Under the Litter Act 1979 the responsible person may be issued an infringement and the Shire may impound the vehicle. Every attempt is made to contact the owner before a vehicle is impounded.  If abandonment of your vehicle is unavoidable, leave a note with your contact details and the circumstances on your dashboard so Rangers can investigate accordingly. 

Impounded vehicles must be claimed by the owner by paying all prescribed fees and providing proof of ownership. Vehicles that remain unclaimed may be disposed of.

Unlawful Parking

A person must not leave a vehicle in a public place if it obstructs the use of any part of that public place, or if it appears to an authorised person to have been abandoned. A person who commits an offence under local parking laws is liable, on conviction, to a penalty not exceeding $5,000. 

Parking regulations in the Shire are in place to ensure fair and safe access for everyone. Please observe all posted signage, time limits and no-parking zones. A person must not stop or park a vehicle on land without the consent of the owner or occupier of that land, and must not park in a manner that blocks driveways, footpaths or access ways.

The Shire of Kojonup Local Park Law