If you do not follow the control requirements set out for your dangerous or menacing dog:
- you may have to pay penalties
- you may face a prison sentence
- your dog may be seized and destroyed under certain circumstances.
For more information, please contact your local council, or refer to the Companion Animal Regulations 2018, and the Companion Animals Act 1998.
| Offence under Companion Animals Act 1998 | Prison sentence? | Maximum penalty amount |
|---|---|---|
| Owner has not registered proposed dangerous or menacing dog | No | 60 penalty units/$6,600 |
| Owner does not have a valid annual permit for a dangerous dog | No | 60 penalty units/$6,600 |
Owner has not made sure that the proposed dangerous or menacing dog is:
| No | 50 penalty units/$5,500 |
| Selling a proposed or declared dangerous or menacing dog, or advertising it for sale | No | 150 penalty units/$16,500 |
| Accepting ownership of a proposed or declared dangerous or menacing dog | No | 150 penalty units/$16,500 |