We are currently undertaking a Bylaws and Policy Review. Bylaws are reviewed every five to ten years. This process involves public consultations to make sure our Bylaws are useful and reflect what the community needs.
What is a Bylaw?
Bylaws are rules made by Council under the Local Government Act 2002 (the “Act”). They are created for the purpose of:
- Protecting the public from nuisance;
- Protecting, promoting, and maintaining public health and safety; and
- Minimising the potential for offensive behaviour in public places.
Bylaws are also made to regulate activities such as the keeping of animals and appropriate use of public spaces.
Why are the Bylaws being reviewed?
Bylaws are made under the Local Government Act 2002 which requires that all Bylaws must be reviewed five years after the day they were first made and then every ten years after that. If a bylaw is not reviewed within the required timeline, it expires. It is then revoked two years after the review due date. These bylaws were first made in 2016 and are due for review in the next year. Except for the Control of Dogs Bylaw – it is due for review in 2023, but since it was last reviewed in 2013, some minor changes have occurred that require updating, including a demand for new dog exercise areas. The review has been brought forward to align with the wider bylaw review.
