The Shire of Toodyay’s proposed Dogs Local Law 2026 includes a blanket two-dog limit per property, broad kennel-style rules, and restrictive settings that risk unfairly affecting responsible dog owners, families, and people who rely on dogs for wellbeing.

 

We are calling on the Shire to amend the proposal before adoption. The draft sets a limit of 2 dogs over 3 months on any premises unless an exemption or kennel approval applies, and it also broadens the framework around keeping additional dogs.

 

Full petition text

 

To the Shire President, Councillors and CEO of the Shire of Toodyay,

 

We, the undersigned, call on the Shire of Toodyay to amend the proposed Dogs Local Law 2026 before it is adopted.

 

This is not a call for no rules. It is a call for better rules.

 

The proposed law contains several measures that are too blunt, too broad, and not properly adapted to regional and semi-rural life. In particular, clause 4.3 sets a blanket limit of 2 dogs over the age of 3 months per premises, unless the property is approved otherwise. 

 

That kind of one-size-fits-all limit may look tidy on paper, but real life is not tidy on paper.

 

Dogs are not just numbers on a register. They are companions, protectors, working dogs, emotional anchors, and family members. For many people, dogs are also part of mental health, social connection, and everyday stability.

 

The proposed law also risks unfairly pushing ordinary non-commercial households into a kennel-style framework once they move beyond the basic dog limit. The draft defines kennel establishments broadly and ties the law to approvals, licensing and conditions that may be reasonable for commercial operations, but not for ordinary residents responsibly caring for a few dogs on suitable land. 

 

We support:

• responsible dog ownership
• proper fencing and containment
• enforcement against roaming, nuisance, neglect and unsafe handling
• reasonable public safety measures

But we do not support a legal approach that treats responsible multi-dog households as a problem in themselves.

 

The draft also uses broad confinement language requiring fencing suitable to the breed, age, size and physical condition of the dog. While the intent is understandable, this kind of wording can create uncertainty and inconsistent enforcement unless backed by clearer guidance. 

 

Public place restrictions and dog exercise rules should also be proportionate and reflect how communities actually use open space. The draft identifies prohibited places and designated exercise areas, which makes it even more important that the final law be practical, balanced and community-focused. 

 

We therefore call on the Shire of Toodyay to:

 

1. Reconsider the blanket two-dog limit

Replace it with a more flexible model that takes into account land size, zoning, rural context, and demonstrated capacity to manage dogs responsibly.

 

2. Narrow the kennel establishment framework

Clearly distinguish commercial kennel operations from private, non-commercial multi-dog households, foster carers, and other community-minded arrangements.

 

3. Clarify confinement expectations

Support the law with practical, objective guidance so residents know what compliance looks like before enforcement action is taken.

 

4. Keep restrictions proportionate

Ensure public place rules and dog exercise settings do not unnecessarily restrict healthy, lawful community life.

 

5. Recognise the role dogs play in wellbeing

Take proper account of the role dogs play in companionship, mental health, connection and stability, especially in regional and semi-rural communities.

 

This petition is about fairness, common sense, and making sure laws aimed at genuine problems do not unfairly burden responsible people and good homes.

 

Amend the proposed Dogs Local Law 2026 before adoption.

 

Better rules. Not more rules.

 

Started by WAssup Community Services in support of responsible dog ownership and better local laws.

 

Please sign and share if you believe Toodyay deserves a dog law that is fair, practical and community-minded.