Pet Waste Cleanup Bylaws - Perth Western Australia

Parks and Public Spaces Western Australia 3 Minutes Read · published February 11, 2026 Flag of Western Australia

In Perth, Western Australia, pet owners must follow local bylaws and state law when using parks, footpaths and other public spaces. This guide explains owner duties for removing and disposing of dog faeces, who enforces the rules, typical enforcement steps and how to report problems in Perth. It summarises application or exemption pathways, practical compliance steps and common violations to help owners avoid fines and orders.

What owners must do

Owners and handlers are expected to immediately remove pet waste from public places and private land where it is a nuisance or health risk, and dispose of it in an appropriate bin or as directed by the city. Carrying waste bags and bins access are commonly required in parks and on shared paths.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement responsibility rests with the City of Perth rangers and by-law enforcement teams; report incidents through the city’s animal/ranger service pages Ranger Services[1]. The controlling state statute for dog regulation is the Dog Act 1976 (WA) Dog Act 1976[2].

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page for general pet waste offences; see cited sources for details.
  • Escalation: first or repeat offence ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: authorised officers may issue remedial or abatement orders, require clean-up, seize animals in serious cases or refer matters for prosecution; specific orders or processes are set out by the city and the Dog Act.
  • Enforcer and reporting: City of Perth Ranger Services and By-law Enforcement handle inspections and complaints; use the city contact/reporting page to lodge complaints.[1]
  • Appeals and reviews: appeal paths depend on the notice or order issued; the cited pages do not specify uniform time limits and so time limits are not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences and discretion: authorised officers may consider a reasonable excuse; specific exemptions or permits are managed by the city or under the Dog Act where applicable.
Keep a supply of disposal bags and use marked bins to reduce risk of enforcement action.

Applications & Forms

There is generally no standalone statewide form solely for routine pet waste removal. Local requests, complaints or applications (for example, to seek an exemption for assistance animals) are processed through City of Perth administrative channels; specific form names and fees are not specified on the cited page.

If you need an exemption for an assistance animal, contact the city early to confirm documentation requirements.

Common violations

  • Failing to remove faeces from a public footpath or park.
  • Allowing an animal to cause a nuisance by soiling private property.
  • Repeated non-compliance after an abatement notice or order.
Common fines and procedures vary between local laws and the Dog Act, so check the city page and the Dog Act for the exact instrument that applies to your case.

Action steps for owners

  • Carry suitable disposal bags whenever walking a dog.
  • Dispose of waste in a public litter bin or other approved container promptly.
  • Report uncollected waste hazards or repeat offenders to City of Perth Ranger Services via the city website.[1]
  • If served with a notice, follow the steps on the notice and ask the issuing officer about appeal timeframes.

FAQ

Do I have to pick up my dog’s waste in all public places?
Yes. Owners are required to remove waste from parks, paths and other public spaces where the animal is present and to dispose of it appropriately.
What if there is no bin nearby?
Carry the waste in a sealed bag until you can dispose of it in an appropriate bin or as instructed by the city.
Who enforces pet waste rules in Perth?
City of Perth Ranger Services and By-law Enforcement are responsible for inspections and enforcement; state legislation such as the Dog Act 1976 also provides the legal framework.[2]

How-To

  1. Prepare: carry biodegradeable bags or a sealed container before you walk your dog.
  2. Collect: pick up waste immediately using a bag and tie it securely.
  3. Dispose: place the sealed bag in a public litter bin or a private bin where permitted.
  4. Report: if you observe repeated non-compliance or a hazardous accumulation, report to City of Perth Ranger Services via the city website.[1]
  5. Respond to notices: if served an order, read it carefully and follow the directions or seek review information from the issuing body.

Key Takeaways

  • Always remove and properly dispose of pet waste to avoid health risks and enforcement.
  • City of Perth Ranger Services enforce local bylaws; use official reporting channels for complaints.

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