By ANEEKA SIMONIS
CHOOK and bird owners will need to apply for a permit to keep more than five poultry or large birds on a single acre.
Cardinia Shire Council introduced the law earlier this month in response to complaints about noise and smells from birds on small properties.
Now, bird owners will need to apply for a $70 annual Excess Animal Permit to keep five or more birds equal to or larger than a cockatoo on a block of 4000 square meters or less.
The council’s co-ordinator for Compliance Services Shannon Maynard said those who do not comply with the new legislation will face a $200 on-the-spot fine.
“Council officers will treat case-by-case but most likely offer the notice to comply first.
“In the event that the notice to comply does not resolve the issue, council would then proceed to an infringement notice,” he said.
“As with most local law breaches, if the matter is still not resolved after the infringement is issued, or the infringement is not paid, then council would seek to resolve the matter in court.”
Bird enclosures or aviaries must not be within three meters of a neighbourhood dwelling according to the new Local Law 17, which was made effective on Monday 15 June.
Birds under the age of 12 weeks are exempt from the laws, according to a council document.
The new permit requirements inspired a mixed response on the Gazette’s Facebook page.
“An acre is surely big enough to have a few chooks without issues,” wrote Jennifer Mcauslan.
Others saw sense in the new laws.
“Fair enough, most of out properties are too small to take that amount of chooks on it,” responded Leigh Corbett.
There are currently no council limitations or permit requirements imposed on owners living on properties larger than 4000 square meters.
According to council animal ownership regulations, no more than two dogs or two cats are permitted on a single acre property without a permit.
Permits are expected to be issued within 14 days of owner application.
“The permit is an annual permit but will likely be a simple renewal process unless council receives complaints regarding the permit,” Mr Maynard said.
