A Byron Bay dog owner has been convicted in the Local Court for two breaches of the Companion Animals Act 1998 relating to the management of a menacing dog, receiving fines totalling $5,000.
The owner has a prior history of failing to comply with menacing dog control requirements.
The latest offences happened in mid-December 2025 after Council responded to a member of the public observing the dog roaming without a muzzle or collar and not under the control of any person.
"Menacing dogs pose a significant risk to other pets and to the safety of our community," Council's Manager Public and Environmental Services, Sarah Nagel said.
"We've seen first-hand the serious and sometimes devastating impacts attacks by menacing dogs can have. That's why the rules around managing them are strict and why Council enforces them," Ms Nagel said.
"If owners of menacing dogs act irresponsibly or fail to meet these legal requirements, they put the community at risk and we will take appropriate legal action," Ms Nagel said.
After entering a guilty plea, the dog owner was fined $4,000 for failing to comply with multiple control requirements for keeping a menacing dog.
An additional fine of $1,000 was issued for failing to take reasonable steps to prevent the dog from escaping the property.
The Court also ordered the dog owner to pay $1,500 in Council costs.
