The City of Port Lincoln has developed a Draft Animal Management Plan 2026-2030 in collaboration with the Dog and Cat Management Board and is inviting the community to provide feedback. Submissions are being sought between Thursday, 20 November to 10am, Friday, 12 December 2025.

This five-year plan sets the direction for how dogs and cats are managed in Port Lincoln. It balances the needs of pet owners, the wider community, and the natural environment, promoting responsible pet ownership, public safety, and the safe and enjoyable use of shared spaces. The plan also reinforces the importance of pet registration, microchipping, and desexing, and provides clear guidance to help pet owners understand where dogs are welcome off-leash and when they must be on-leash.

The review of the Animal Management Plan ensures Council's approach continues to meet community needs and reflects current compliance data and best practice in animal management. It takes into account factors such as urban growth, dog-on-leash compliance, responsible pet ownership, and the protection of sensitive environments.

Key proposed changes

The Draft Animal Management Plan includes several updates to improve animal management across the city:

• Foreshore area - proposed to be on-leash at all times due to high pedestrian activity, nearby food businesses, and community safety considerations.
• Laguna Beach - proposed to be on-leash at all times to protect environmentally sensitive areas and accommodate increasing recreational use.
• Revised dog exercise and on-leash zones across the city.
• Clearer guidance for owners in off-leash areas.
• Strengthened provisions for cat containment and registration.
• Enhanced community education and enforcement measures.

The Draft Animal Management Plan 2026-2030 can be viewed in the Key Documents section on the right.

Printed copies are also available at the Council Office and Port Lincoln Library.

Key dates and further details on how to provide your feedback can be found below.