Other animals
This section provides information about managing interactions with wildlife and the rules around keeping certain animals on your property.
From backyard chickens and beekeeping to snake sightings and bird behaviour, you'll find guidance on what's allowed in residential areas, who to contact, and how to ensure animals are cared for responsibly.
The types of animals you can keep on your property depend on your land zoning and must not create issues such as noise, odours, or health risks for neighbours.
If you can't find what you're looking for, please contact Council for assistance.
Public safety & wildlife encounters
Information on how to respond to animals that may pose a safety concern or require reporting.
Snakes
What to do if you see a snake in your home, garden, or in a public space. Includes licensed reptile handlers and legal responsibilities.
Snakes are a natural part of the environment and are generally non-aggressive. Most bites happen when people try to handle or harm a snake.
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If you see a snake in a park or reserve, calmly walk away.
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If a snake is in your home or garden, do not attempt to move it yourself.
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Keep children and pets well away from the area.
For safe removal, contact a licensed local reptile handler:
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Cory Kerewaro – 0455 570 000 – Reptile Relocation Sydney
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Glen Peacock – 0418 162 441 – Illawarra Snake Catcher
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Raymond McGibbon – 0400 734 225
It is illegal to kill native birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals – including snakes.
Aggressive birds
How to report bird attacks or aggressive bird behaviour in public spaces.
Keeping animals at home
Rules and guidelines for residents looking to keep animals on their property.
Chickens
Backyard chicken keeping rules, including limits, housing, and rooster restrictions.
Keeping chickens can be a rewarding and sustainable way to reduce food waste and enjoy fresh eggs. However:
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Roosters are not permitted in residential areas.
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Chickens must be housed appropriately and hygienically.
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The number of chickens allowed and how they must be kept is outlined in NSW state legislation.
Council has created a fact sheet on keeping chickens(PDF, 661KB) in your backyard.
Guidelines about keeping chickens including the number of chickens you can have and how to house them is found in state legislation.
Rabbits
How many you can keep, vaccination requirements, and secure enclosures.
Rabbits
You can keep up to two domestic rabbits of the same sex as pets.
Bees
Registration requirements, neighbour considerations, and links to DPI and local beekeeping info.
Bees
Backyard beekeeping is permitted but regulated:
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Speak with neighbours first, especially if they have bee sting allergies.
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Registration with the NSW Department of Primary Industries is compulsory.
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Beekeepers must follow the Australian Honey Bee Industry Biosecurity Code of Practice.
Visit the Illawarra Beekeepers website for more information.
Livestock
Rules around keeping larger animals such as cattle, horses, goats, and pigs in rural zones.
Livestock (Cattle, Pigs & Others)
Livestock such as cattle, pigs, horses, goats, and sheep are not permitted in residential backyards.
They may be kept on some rural properties, but must comply with:
Horses and other large animals are not allowed on Council beaches or the Kiama Coast Walk.
Road safety and wildlife
Animal collisions can pose a big risk when driving or riding on country roads, especially at dusk and dawn.
Read more about road safety and wildlife.