PRESS RELEASE | ANIMAL CONTROL BY-LAW
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New rules and regulations have been drawn up to give Central Coast Council residents certainty about the place of farm animals in suburban back yards.
The Animal Control By-law, which comes into effect on 1 November 2018, is in response to a surge in disputes between neighbours, and follows extensive community consultation, particularly with interest groups such as the Ulverstone Poultry Club and the Tasmanian Beekeeper’s Association.
The By-law, which was approved unanimously at the Council meeting held on 15 October 2018, only applies to properties which are zoned Residential.
From 1 November 2018, permits will be required to keep farm animals such as poultry, sheep, goats, pigs, donkeys, horses and cattle within residential areas.
Permits will NOT be required for the keeping of up to two (2) bee hives, for six (6) or less standard hens, ten (10) or less bantam hens, or up to eight (8) mixed sized hens, BUT will be needed by anyone wanting to keep a rooster or any other poultry such as ducks, geese, pigeons or turkeys.
Permit holders will have to comply with the clearly stated regulations which set out everything from how far chicken coops should be set back from fence lines, to the disposal of manure and dead animals, and the maintenance of animal enclosures.
The Animal Control By-law also spells out how the Central Coast Council can and will respond if permit holders fail to comply with the regulations.
Central Coast Council Mayor, Jan Bonde, said the new By-law was not about punishing people who keep farm animals in town areas.
The By-law is aimed at making common sense ground rules to ensure better outcomes for all residents.A one-off permit fee of $25 per property will be used to fund the production of educational resource materials for people keen on keeping farm animals within residential areas.
For further information call the Council on tel. (03) 6429 8900 or CLICK HERE for a copy of the By-law and the Permit Application Form.