Domestic Animal Management Plan
The Domestic Animal Management Plan 2025-2029 (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, 1MB)
Dogs - Designated Leash Areas
Dog Designated Leash Areas are in place across the municipality to support responsible pet ownership and shared use of open spaces. The current maps, adopted as part of the 2021–2025 Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAMP), are under review as part of an upcoming update to the Designated Leash Area framework. These maps assist dog owners in identifying appropriate locations for exercise and recreation, while also helping to ensure the safety and comfort of all park users and providing protection for local wildlife and sensitive environments. Dog owners are reminded of their responsibility to keep their dogs contained and under effective control at all times when using public spaces.
View maps: Designated Dog Leash Areas(PDF, 2MB)
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)