Frequently Asked Questions
- Residential Zones 1B, 4
- Business Zones 1, 2, 4
- Otatara Zone
How do I make a submission?
The easiest way is to use the survey link that can be found at letstalk.icc.govt.nz/dog-control-policy. Alternatively, you can mail in a submission form or drop one off to the ICC Civic Administration Building in Esk Street, the Public Library or the Bluff Service Centre. You can also email the Strategy and Policy Team at policy@icc.govt.nz
Post: Submission – Dog Control Policy
Invercargill City Council
Private Bag 90104
Invercargill 9840
Why is the Keeping of Animals, Poultry and Bees Bylaw being reviewed and consulted on?
Council received some feedback from the District Court that it's wording for the removal of livestock needed to be amended. Currently the Bylaw says Council can limit the number of livestock that can be kept on a property. It is now proposed to include the wording "limit the number of, or order the complete removal of livestock..."
Council also seeks to introduce a Hearing Panel for appeals against decisions made by Council under this Bylaw. This is deemed to be the more appropriate pathway for appeals to be heard and is in line with how Dog Control appeals are heard.
Council is also proposing to include other areas into the definition of "urban area" for the Bylaw. The urban area is interpreted differently when it comes to provisions for keeping roosters and pigs etc.
Why are you proposing to expand the urban area?
Council is proposing to include the following zones in the definition of "urban area" for the Bylaw:
The residential zone inclusions intend to future-proof so there are no anomalies in the Bylaw for future residential development.
The inclusion of the Business Zones recognises that there are some residential houses in these areas. If a business owners wanted to keep livestock at their business and it was creating an annoyance, then this allows a pathway for that to be addressed.
The inclusion of the Otatara Zone recognises there are some area within Otatara that have smaller sections, similar to residential properties in the residential zones and they should face the same considerations. There are more densely populated areas, such as Grant Road where Council would consider this area to be urban and therefore the urban aspects of the Bylaw would apply. There are more rural areas such as Erskine or Coggins Road where Council would deem these to be outside of the urban area and the urban rules would not be applicable.
Here is a link to the Invercargill City Council District Plan if you would like to look further in to these zones and what they cover.
Why are you introducing a Hearings Panel for appeals?
Currently, the Bylaw does not allow for an appeals process. This void has been highlighted recently, resulting in the proposed inclusion of a Hearing Panel to facilitate a fit for purpose appeals process going forward.
Will this Bylaw update cost me more money as a ratepayer?
No. Existing systems will remain and nothing will materially change with this expenditure. Any changes to expenditure is expected to be negligible.
How do I make a complaint if I am unhappy with a neighbour’s cat/rooster/livestock?
If possible, the best approach is to always talk in a proactive manner with your neighbours. If you are unable to do so, or this has not resolved the issue then you can email us at service@icc.govt.nz or contact us on (03) 211 1777. Please refer to our complaints page. Complaints | Invercargill City Council (icc.govt.nz)
Can I talk to the Mayor and Councillors about this proposal?
Hearings are currently set down for 9 August 2022. While the opportunity to speak to your submission as part of this process is not legally required, Councillors are interested in hearing from you, if you would like to share your views orally.