Domestic Animal Management Plan 2025-2029

On Display Indefinitely

The Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP) outlines how Council manage dogs and cats within the community over a four‑year period. The Plan focuses on promoting responsible pet ownership, enhancing community safety, and supporting the welfare of domestic animals.

It sets out actions and priorities for:

Encouraging responsible pet ownership
Reducing dog attacks and nuisance behaviour
Supporting desexing, registration, and microchipping
Managing stray and wandering animals
Providing clear education and enforcement approaches
Improving services such as animal facilities and compliance activities

The DAMP is developed in accordance with the Domestic Animals Act 1994 and is shaped from a number of sources including discussions with Council’s Local Laws Officers, consultation with stakeholders such as the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA), local veterinary clinics, RSPCA and a review of the previous plan.

Domestic Animal Management Plan 2025-2029(PDF, 4MB)

Dogs

Designated Leash Area Maps

Council provides Designated Leash Area Maps to help community members understand where dogs must be kept on a leash and where off‑leash activity is permitted.

The maps support responsible pet ownership by helping dog owners choose appropriate areas for recreation while ensuring the safety and comfort of all park users and protecting local wildlife.

View maps: Designated Leash Area Maps(PDF, 4MB)

Cats

Cat Confinement Order

Colac Otway Shire Council introduced a Cat Confinement Order under the Domestic Animals Act 1994. From 1 November 2023, cat owners must keep their cats confined to their property between 7:00 pm and 7:00 am. Cats can be kept inside the home or in a secure, escape‑proof enclosure. The Order aims to protect wildlife, reduce nuisance behaviour, and promote responsible pet ownership across the municipality.

Cat Confinement Order (PDF, 122KB)

Contact details

Local Laws

03 5232 9400

inq@colacotway.vic.gov.au