Keeping animals in residential areas

Before you decide to keep animals in a residential area, consider the impact they may have on your neighbours. Certain types of animals and birds are not suitable in residential areas, because of the noise or odour they produce or the vermin they attract.

If your neighbours are disturbed, they may lodge noise or nuisance complaints with us. If we find that complaints are justified, we may require the removal of some or all of the animals from your property and any remedial works necessary to abate the nuisance.

General guidelines for keeping animals

Do not choose animals that make a lot of noise or are unsuitably large for a residential site.

Keep any buildings that house animals clean. This will help reduce the risk of nuisance conditions arising through odour, flies or vermin.

Store food so that vermin cannot reach it. If you do notice vermin, you need to remedy the problem immediately by blocking their access and laying bait.

Contain animals within your own property to prevent fouling and damage to other properties. Straying or wandering animals may be impounded, resulting in a fine or, if not collected, the sale or destruction of the animal.

Cats

We recommend that no more than three adult cats be kept on a residential property. Female cats can become pregnant from the age of four months and may produce up to three litters of kittens in a breeding season. It is a good idea to sterilise female cats at 12-14 weeks.

Bees

Keeping bees in a residential area is not appropriate. They can pose problems because of the danger of people being stung. We will respond to complaints where bees might be causing any nuisance or danger.

Roosters

We frequently receive complaints about roosters crowing. They are not suitable for keeping in residential areas.

Goats, horses, sheep and pigs

These animals are likely to attract flies and vermin, and result in offensive odours. Keeping them in residential areas is not appropriate.

Building requirements

All buildings for housing animals must be of sound construction, vermin proof and must comply with all building bylaws. The interior surfaces should be constructed of readily cleanable materials. A concrete floor is preferable and any liquid floor washing or floor drainage must be disposed of in an approved manner.

You may need a building consent. You must apply for this BEFORE you start construction. All neighbours that may be affected should also be consulted and their verbal or written approval obtained before construction.

Last reviewed: 19 Mar 2009 12:53pm