Dog and cat laws in Western Australia: what travelling pet owners need to know

Registration and microchipping in WA

In Western Australia dog laws are governed by the Dog Act 1976 and cat laws by the Cat Act 2011. All dogs must be registered with their local council. Microchipping is required for all dogs and cats.

WA registration is annual and done through local councils. Registration fees vary by council and are typically lower for desexed animals.

When travelling to WA from another state your existing microchip and registration are generally accepted for short visits. For permanent relocation you must register your pet with your new WA local government authority.

Leash laws in WA

Dogs must be under effective control in public places in WA. This means on a leash unless in a designated off-leash area.

Perth has an extensive network of off-leash areas including over 100 kilometres of dog beach access along the Indian Ocean coast. Most northern Perth beaches have 24-hour off-leash access year round.

Regional WA councils manage their own off-leash areas. Rules vary significantly between metropolitan and regional areas. Always check the specific local government rules for any area you plan to visit.

Cat laws in WA

WA has a separate Cat Act 2011 that governs cat ownership across the state. All cats must be microchipped and sterilised unless exempt. Cat registration is required in most WA local government areas.

Cat containment requirements vary by local government. Some WA councils have mandatory overnight cat curfews. Others have 24-hour containment requirements in specific areas.

The Cat Act gives local governments significant powers to manage cats in their areas. Check the specific requirements of any WA local government area where you plan to stay with a cat.

Rottnest Island

Dogs are completely prohibited on Rottnest Island at all times. The island is a nature reserve and the quokka population is protected. No exceptions apply.

This is worth planning around when visiting Perth. If Rottnest is part of your itinerary your dog must remain on the mainland.

Conservation parks and nature reserves

Dogs are not permitted in WA national parks or conservation reserves in most cases. The Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions manages these areas and has strict dog exclusion policies.

Lane Poole Reserve near Dwellingup has specific dog-friendly campgrounds including Baden Powell, Charlies Flat, and Nanga Brook. This is one of the few DBCA-managed areas in WA with genuine dog-friendly camping options.

State forests in WA generally permit dogs on leash. Check with the relevant regional office for current access conditions.