Council will begin a systematic inspection of all properties in Gracemere on Monday, 1 April, to ensure dog owners are complying with Local Laws.
Authorised Council officers will check owners have fulfilled dog registration and microchipping requirements, that animals on the property are contained by adequate fencing or enclosures, and that there are only the permitted number of animals kept on each property.
Councillor Ellen Smith, Chair of Council's Planning and Regulatory Committee, said the program will help ensure that animals in our community are being kept responsibly.
"The Laws we have in place are designed to protect the welfare of animals, ensure we can reunite lost animals with their owners, and minimise the risk to community safety," said Cr Smith.
"We know that the majority of dog-owners understand the need for these Laws and are happy to observe them, however this inspection program will allow Council officers to interact directly with anyone unaware of the Laws or not currently complying.
"Fines will apply if you're found to not be complying with Local Laws, so now is the time to register and microchip your dogs if you haven't already."
Council officers will be inspecting properties every day between the hours of 7am and 6pm from 1 April until 2 June.
Officers will ensure compliance with the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008, Rockhampton Regional Council Local Law 1 (Administration) 2011 and Rockhampton Regional Council Local Law 2 (Animal Management) 2011 in relation to the keeping of dogs.
A copy of the program may be purchased for $2 at the public offices of Rockhampton Regional Council throughout the duration of the systematic inspection.
