How to register a pet
Pet registrations in NSW are coordinated by NSW Pet Registry, but Council can help with updating pet details and ownership, and the relevant payments.
Microchip your pet
Cats and dogs must be microchipped before they are 12 weeks old.
- Microchips can only be created by a vet or an authorised microchip implanter
- Once your pet is microchipped, the details will be stored in the NSW Companion Animal Register and you will receive a certificate.
Create a Pet Registry account
Visit the NSW Pet Registry website and register as a pet owner or breeder.
- You will need your driver’s licence, passport or Medicare card ready to register
- If you already have an account, you can move straight to Step 3.
Link your pet
Register your pet to your account using their microchip number. Your dog and cat must be registered before they reach 12 weeks of age. If your pet is older than 12 weeks upon registration, a $25 late fee applies if registration is not paid within 28 days of the due date.
- Contact your vet if you don’t know your pet’s microchip number
- This is where you’ll pay the lifetime registration fee, and annual permits if applicable.
Registration costs
Dog registration fees
Late fee: A $25 late fee applies if the registration fee is not paid within 28 days of the due date.
By 12 weeks or when first transferred
If not desexed by 6 months
If desexed before 6 months
*Conditions apply
*Conditions apply
Cat registration fees
Late fee: A $25 late fee applies if the registration fee is not paid within 28 days of the due date.
By 12 weeks or when first transferred
If not desexed before 4 months
If desexed before 4 months
*Conditions apply
*Conditions apply
Annual pet permits
The NSW Government imposes annual permits for not desexed cats and restricted and/or dangerous dog breeds. This is to help promote responsible pet ownership and improve animal welfare standards.
Late fee: A $25 late fee applies if the registration fee is not paid within 28 days of the due date.
Dog permit
Cat permit
Does not include registered breeders or cats with medical exemptions
Assistance & companion animals
Under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992, an assistance animal is defined as a medical aid that has been trained to perform certain actions that directly alleviate the handler’s disability.
A companion animal, such as a therapy or emotional support animal, has not completed formal training, hold official qualifications, or have public access rights. However, they provide invaluable love and support as cherished pets.
There are no registration fees for assistance animals however all assistance and companion animals must be microchipped and registered in NSW.
Microchipping information
Microchipping is a fast and harmless procedure that allows pet owners to be reunited with their dog or cat if it’s taken to a vet or Maitland Animal Management Facility. Maitland Animal Management Facility offers microchipping for all kinds of pets.
All cats and dogs must be microchipped by the time they’re 12 weeks old, or when they’re sold, whichever comes first.
Microchip transfers
It is the responsibility of the current or former owner to transfer the microchip number into the new owner’s name.
Free pet microchipping
Maitland City Council regularly holds free pet microchipping days to improve access to and incentivise the uptake of responsible pet ownership practices such as microchipping your pets.
- No bookings necessary
- Proof of Maitland LGA residency required (such as a driver's licence, utility bill or rates notice)
- Dogs must be on leads, puppies must be carried if unvaccinated and cats kept in carriers.
Upcoming dates
- No dates scheduled