Dog Dispensation Licences

This page explains how and when you may obtain a Dispensation Licence allowing you to keep more than two dogs on your property.

The number of dogs you may keep on your property

You must obtain a dispensation licence to keep more than two dogs on your property.

You may obtain dispensation to keep more than two dogs

If you want to keep more than two dogs, you may apply to Council for a Dispensation Licence. The licence allows you to have more than two dogs up to the total number approved in the licence.  A dispensation Licence fee is required to be paid annually.

Applying for your Dispensation Licence

Dispensation Licence applications are to be made in writing to Council’s Customer Service Centre on the prescribed application form which may be obtained from the Customer Service Centre and requires the following information:

  • The number of additional dogs applied for.
  • The full street address at which the dog or dogs will be kept.
  • The full name, street address and contact details of the dog’s owner if you are not the owner.
  • Full details of the proposed additional dogs including their name, breed, dog type, age, description, tattoo, chip, other means of identification and current registration details (if applicable).
  • Your dog kennelling facilities and security facilities.
  • Your neighbour’s signed written approval to your proposal.

You must apply for your new Dispensation Licence or licence renewal before 1 June in each year. A Dispensation Licence fee is payable in addition to your dog registration fee. If you are proposing to build new accommodation for your dogs you may also require a Resource Consent and/or a Building Consent before doing so.

Your property will be inspected before a licence is granted

A Council Animal Control Officer will inspect your property to assess the suitability of your property to keep more than two dogs. The inspection will cover the type and suitability of your dog accommodation, exercise space available and hygiene standards. A site inspection is required before the dispensation licence can be granted.

Council may revoke your Dispensation Licence

Your Dispensation Licence may be revoked at any time where:

  • Your dogs create a nuisance or hazard to health, property and safety or they otherwise adversely affect the neighbourhood; or
  • You do not comply with the Dispensation Licence conditions.

Links to more dog information

Legislation:

Porirua City Council links: