Strata laws impacting pet owners (NT)

As a strata resident, you are subject to the rules or by-laws (sometimes also known as articles or memorandums) of your strata scheme. Likewise, your strata scheme is subject to the strata laws of your state or territory government.

So as a pet owner, you are impacted by both your strata community’s by-laws and your state legislation.

You should never keep a pet in strata accommodation without being sure the by-laws permit pets and you have any necessary approvals.

Strata By-Laws

When you need information, your first step should be to get a copy of your strata by-laws from the owners corporation. Should a dispute arise you may need to contact your relevant state government department for further help or information.

Please note that in accordance with various federal and state legislation strata by-laws cannot exclude or restrict guide, hearing and assistance dogs.

If you are renting in a strata development and experience difficulties you may need to contact the relevant residential tenancy department as well as – or instead of – the government department that covers strata legislation.

Northern Territory

Northern Territory strata communities are subject to the Unit Titles Act.

There is a clause in the Act relating to animals as follows:

Schedule 1 Articles

2. (4) A member of the corporation shall not:

(f) Except in accordance with the permission given by a majority resolution of the corporation, keep any animals or birds in or on his unit or the common property."

This clause means that residents can only keep pets if they have the permission of a majority vote of the owners corporation. It is possible for strata schemes to change this clause by creating and registering their own house rules or articles (by-laws).

Contact: Department of Justice - Tel 08 8935 7777 (www.nt.gov.au/justice)

This information is provided as a guide only, it is not a substitute for legal advice. The recipient must at all times comply with local and strata title regulations and any other law.

Ref: Strata Community Aust