Lost and Found

• Our Rangers can seize a dog from its property if it has been involved in an attack within the preceding 72 hours, and if we believe the dog is not able to be secured safely on its property. Our Rangers will leave a notice of seizure on the property, if this has occurred.
• Our Rangers may seize a dangerous or restricted dog if a Ranger is satisfied dangerous and restricted dog control requirements have not been met.
• A claim for release of a seized dog from our local animal facility may be made only if we are satisfied that the relevant control requirements are capable of being met.

• Animals that are not identified by a microchip are held for seven days.
• Microchipped animals are held for 14 days.
• Animals that remain unclaimed become the property of re-homing organisation. Animals suitable for re-homing are then made available for purchase from rehoming organisations.

• We charge impound and sustenance fees to recover some of the costs associated with providing care and food for your animal.
• Fees are charged on a daily basis, so the sooner an animal is claimed, the less it costs.
• All impounded animals must be microchipped and lifetime registered prior to release. This includes animals that would otherwise be subject to an exemption, such as working dogs, greyhounds, or animals less that six months of age. We are unable to waive or reduce these fees, however desexed animals are cheaper to register.
• All fees must be paid prior to the release of the animal.

Under the provisions of Section 61OE (1) of the Local Government Act 1993 No 30, City of Newcastle Council may waive payment of, or reduce, a Public Fee.

On assessment we must be satisfied that the case falls within a category we have determined payment should be waived or reduced. We assess applications for a reduction or waiving of fees on a case by case basis.

Read more about City of Newcastle's Request for hardship procedure.

After the release of your animal you may receive further correspondence from us about the incident that led to your animal being impounded. This may involve fines and/or notices and orders, depending on the circumstances.

For more information, please contact us.