Changes to pet laws – do you need to update your pets by-law?

As of July 1, 2024, the NSW Government introduced new regulations for cat and dog ownership. All cats and dogs residing in your strata building (and across NSW) must now be microchipped.

The recent changes to pet ownership regulations in NSW will impact residents living in strata schemes and NSW communities. 

Here’s what you need to know:

Microchipping and Registration

• All cats and dogs in your strata building (and across NSW), regardless of age, must be microchipped. They must be microchipped by 12 weeks old (or before selling or giving them away).
• Dogs and Cats must also be registered on the new NSW Pet Registry within 12 weeks of age or upon taking ownership. This is a one-time fee that transfers with the pet if ownership changes. They must register within 28 days to avoid late fees.

Keeping Information Up-to-Date

Residents with pets must:

• Create an account on the NSW pet registry website This online platform allows for paying fees, updating pet’s details, and report missing animals.
• Especially important for strata residents: Pet’s information on the registry must be updated whenever contact details or ownership changes. This ensures the pet can be easily returned if they get lost within the building or surrounding areas.

Benefits for Strata Communities

• These new regulations aim to improve overall pet management in strata buildings and the surrounding communities. Up-to-date pet registry information helps reunite lost pets with their owners quickly and minimises any inconvenience for fellow residents and the strata community.

Update your Pets By-law too!

It’s important to review your strata scheme’s pet by-laws alongside these new regulations. Speak to the experts at JS Mueller & Co Strata Lawyers today, we’re happy to assist.