Proposed Cats Local Law: what pet owners should know
.png)
The City of Stirling is taking steps to enhance protection for local wildlife and encourage responsible pet ownership through the proposed Cat Local Law 2025.
At its May 2025 meeting, Council resolved to advertise the new law, which will repeal and replace the existing Keeping and Control of Cats Local Law 1999. The proposed changes follow extensive community consultation and a statutory review as part of the City’s Local Laws Review 2024.
Under the proposed law, households will be allowed to keep up to two cats. If a resident wishes to keep three or more, they will need to apply for a permit from the City. This change is intended to reduce the impact of domestic cats on local wildlife and ensure responsible pet ownership.
The number of designated Cat Prohibited Areas across the City will increase from 11 to 43. These areas, which are rich in native fauna, are particularly vulnerable to cat predation. Residential properties located within 200m of these areas will fall within Fauna Protection Buffer Zones, and cat owners in these zones will also be required to obtain a permit.
Permits will also be required for catteries and cat management facilities, regardless of whether they are operated for profit. These facilities must meet specific conditions, including ensuring all cats are registered, microchipped, and sterilised, and that the premises are clean, secure, and provide adequate space for the animals.
The proposed law also introduces strengthened enforcement measures. Cats found in prohibited areas may be impounded, and penalties for non-compliance may reach up to $5,000, with additional daily fines for ongoing offences.
The proposed Cat Local Law 2025 aligns with the Cat Act 2011 (WA), which requires all cats over six months of age to be microchipped, sterilised, and registered with their local council. The City will continue to enforce these requirements and may issue infringements to owners who fail to comply.
To support residents in meeting these requirements, the City offers a subsidy program that helps with the cost of sterilisation, microchipping, and lifetime registration. Visit the Responsible cat ownership page to find out more and apply.
The City is encouraging residents to review the proposed law and provide feedback during the public consultation period, which is running until Thursday 14 August 2025.
To learn more and submit your feedback, visit the Proposed Cats Local Law 2025 page on the City’s website.
