Annual Permit Information

For Non-Desexed Cats and Dangerous or Restricted Dogs in NSW

If you own a non-desexed cat, a restricted breed dog, or a dog declared dangerous, you may need to pay an annual permit fee. Annual permits were introduced by the NSW Government to encourage responsible pet ownership and improve animal welfare.

Who needs an annual permit?

Since 1 July 2020 pet owners must pay an annual permit fee if they own any of the following:

  • A non-desexed cat
  • A restricted breed of dog

  • A dog that has been declared dangerous

This annual fee is in addition to the one-off lifetime pet registration fee.

How to pay for an annual permit

You can pay for your annual permit:

  •  Online at the NSW Pet Registry

  • Visit Council's Town Hall Administration Office at 265 Grey Street, Glen Innes. 

Please note: Service NSW does not accept annual permit payments.

Can I skip the annual permit?

Yes. You don’t need to pay the annual permit fee if:

  • Your cat was registered before 1 July 2020
  •  You are a member of a recognised breeding body and keep cats for breeding

  • Your cat cannot be desexed for medical reasons

You can download the NSW Companion Animals Register - Application for Annual Permit here.(PDF, 85KB)

Why are annual permits required?

The aim of the annual permit is to:

  •  Encourage desexing of cats, which can improve their health and reduce aggressive or roaming behaviour
  • Reduce unwanted litters, which means fewer animals ending up in pounds or shelters
  • Lower euthanasia rates and help protect native wildlife from stray or feral cats

  • Promote safer communities by discouraging ownership of dangerous or restricted dog breeds and encouraging better control by their owners

Where do the fees go?

Annual permit fees go into the NSW Companion Animals Fund, which helps:

  • Support councils in managing companion animals (e.g. pounds, rangers, dog parks)
  • Run education and awareness programs
  • Maintain the NSW Pet Registry
  • Promote responsible pet ownership. Click here to learn more.

Learn more

Contact the NSW Pet Registry:

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