Introduction of annual permits for non-desexed cats, dangerous/restricted dogs
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From 1 July 2020, the NSW Government introduced annual permits for owners of non-desexed cats, restricted dog breeds, and dogs declared to be dangerous.
Owners of cats not desexed by four months of age are required to pay an $80 annual permit in addition to their one-off lifetime pet registration fee. Owners of dogs of a restricted breed or declared to be dangerous will be required to pay a $195 annual permit in addition to their one-off lifetime pet registration fee. This applies to dogs that are already registered.
Pet owners will be able to pay for annual permits using the online NSW Pet Registry, or at Council. Annual permits will not be available at Service NSW. Anyone registering a cat on the NSW Pet Registry will be informed that they must pay for an $80 annual permit if their animal is not desexed by four months of age.
The following exemptions are in place: •Cats that are registered by 1 July 2020 •Cats kept for breeding purposes by members of recognised breeding bodies •Cats which cannot be desexed for medical reasons.
Annual permit fees will go directly to the Companion Animals Fund that pays for companion animal management by local councils including pounds/shelters, ranger services, dog recreation areas, and education and awareness programs.