Selwyn dog owners are reminded to register their furry friends by 31 July 2026, as new Dog Control Fees and Charges come into effect following approval by Council on 27 May as part of the Annual Plan process.

The updated fees help fund essential animal control services that keep communities safe including responding to roaming or aggressive dogs, investigating incidents, and reuniting lost pets with their owners.

Selwyn District Council Team Leader Animal Control, Matt van Keulen, says dog registration is a legal requirement and a key part of responsible dog ownership.

“Dog control isn’t optional - it’s a service councils must provide. Registration fees ensure we can continue to support dog owners, respond when issues arise, and keep both people and pets safe across our district.”

All dogs in New Zealand must be registered from three months of age. Registration helps identify dogs, return lost pets quickly, and provides accountability when problems occur.

Council’s dog control service includes:

  • Registration and database management
  • Monitoring compliance with dog ownership rules
  • Responding to complaints and incidents, including dog attacks
  • Managing impounded dogs and reuniting them with owners
  • Enforcement and classification of menacing or dangerous dogs
  • Supporting dog owners to meet their legal responsibilities

Fees are reviewed annually through the Council’s planning processes to ensure they remain fair and reflect the cost of delivering these services, with further changes to be considered through the upcoming Long-Term Plan.

“Most dog owners in Selwyn do the right thing,” says Mr VanKeulen.

“These fees help us support that and make sure our communities remain safe and well managed.”

For more information on dog registration, fees and how to make a payment, visit selwyn.govt.nz/dogregistration

You can also find the full table of dog registration fees below.

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Last modified: 12 Jun 2026 9:35am