Guidelines
If you want to keep animals on residential properties, you must comply with Part 2 of the Wellington Consolidated Bylaw. Some guidelines are set out below.
Animals - Wellington Consolidated Bylaw
Animal Boarding Establishments
Under city bylaws, anybody setting up or operating an animal establishment requires an operating licence. This applies to kennels, catteries, shelters, vets and pet shops.
Kennels and catteries may also require a resource consent (for environmental impacts and any zoning changes to the land), and a building consent to do any construction, plumbing or drainage work. The premises must comply with standards for pet boarding establishments as prescribed by the Boarding Kennel and Cattery Association of New Zealand.
Bees
The keeping of a hive or two is becoming popular in Wellington, but it can also become a problem in residential areas. Beyond the danger of being stung, bees establish a common flight-path on which wax and droppings accumulate on neighbours' homes. Once bees have their flight path imprinted, it's very difficult to change. Hives often have to be relocated many miles away.
There is no bee-keeping licence requirement, but Environmental Health Officers will respond to complaints where bees might be causing any nuisance or danger.
Goats
Goats on a hillside
If you wish to keep a goat on any property (including rural property) you must get written permission from the Council. An Environmental Health Officer will assess the suitability of the property and neighbourhood. You will also have to indicate how you intend to prevent the goat from causing any nuisance.
Birds
There are requirements under city bylaws for keeping birds, including any domestic birds, poultry, game, caged birds or birds kept for display.
The Council receives many complaints about birds, particularly noisy roosters. Unless they are well maintained, fowl houses and aviaries attract flies, rats, mice and stoats.
Compact residential neighbourhoods are often unsuitable for keeping poultry, and noisy roosters frequently have to be removed.
Related Links
Department Details:
Public Health (Building Consents and Licensing Services)
