Council proposes amendments to its animal management laws

Lockyer Valley Regional Council has proposed amendments to a local law to implement changes to the number of animals that can be kept on certain properties.

The proposed changes, which are currently subject to community consultation from 8 January 2026 to6 February 2026, would see a reduction in the number of dogs allowed on lots less than 4,000m2.

“We’re proposing to prohibit keeping more than two dogs on a caravan site, at a multi-residential dwelling and on lots less than 1,500m2,” Regulatory Services Portfolio Councillor Cheryl Steinhardt said.

“Keeping more than three dogs on a lot between 1,500m2 and 4,000m2 would also be prohibited.

“These provisions do not apply to working dogs, dogs less than 12 weeks of age or dogs kept in an approved kennel.

“Anyone wanting to keep more dogs than what is allowed under the local law will need Council approval.”

Proposed amendments have also been made to the number of cats allowed in certain situations.

“Residents of caravan parks would need to seek Council approval to keep more than one cat, and for residents of multi-residential premises, more than two cats,” Cr Steinhardt said.

Councillors have considered changes to the Subordinate Local Law in response to the increasing number of complaints of animals, particularly complaints about dogs and dog attacks in the region, and also to address concerns raised by residents about the rules for keeping livestock on smaller lots being too restrictive.

Cr Steinhardt said amendments have been slated to increase the number of livestock that can be kept (in some cases) on lots less than 4ha, and for a limited number of pigs to be allowed on lots between 1ha and 4ha.

“It is also proposed to allow bee hives to be housed on lots less than 4000m2 so long as they are kept in accordance with the Biosecurity Act 2014 and the Australian Honey Bee Industry Biosecurity Code of Practice,” she said.

Further proposed changes include requirements for enclosures for bulls on lots less than 4ha and changes in relation to animal noise and the standards for keeping birds.

Under the proposed changes, bird owners will need to keep pet birds at least 10 metres away from an adjoining residence or a place used for the preparation or storage of food (other than for the owner of the birds).

Any change to Subordinate Local Law No. 2 will not apply retrospectively.

“If animals are being kept in compliance with the current Subordinate Local Law, these changes do not affect the keeping of that animal,” Cr Steinhardt said.

For the full list of proposed changes, and information on how to lodge a submission, visit lockyervalley.qld.gov.au/local-laws.

The information can also be viewed in-person at Council’s offices at Gatton or Laidley.