Annual permits

The NSW Government is introducing annual permits for non-desexed cats and restricted and dangerous dogs as part of its commitment to promoting responsible pet ownership and improving animal welfare standards.

Owners of cats not desexed by four months of age are required to pay an annual permit in addition to their one-off lifetime pet registration fee. This will create a stronger incentive to desex cats, which will improve their health and wellbeing, including reducing the risk of some cancers. Improving desexing rates will also ease the burden on pounds and shelters, reduce euthanasia rates, and help to address concerns about feral, stray and roaming cats and their effect on wildlife. Exemptions are in place for cats that are registered by 1 July 2020, those kept for breeding purposes by members of recognised breeding bodies, and cats which cannot be de-sexed for medical reasons.

Owners of dogs of a restricted breed or formally declared to be dangerous are required to pay an annual permit in addition to their one-off lifetime pet registration fee. This will serve as a further disincentive to owning high-risk dogs and encourage owners to better manage the behaviour of their animal.

Pet owners are able to pay for annual permits using the NSW Pet Registry website or through their local council.

Annual permit fees go directly to the Companion Animals Fund which pays for companion animal management by local councils including pounds/shelters, ranger services, dog recreation areas, and education and awareness programs. The fund is also used to operate the NSW Pet Registry and carry out responsible pet ownership initiatives.

Visit the Office Local Government website for details on the annual permits, including fees.