New pet policy to be introduced for Angus Council tenants next year
People living in council houses in Angus will need to tell the local authority what pets they have under a new policy.
The council currently permits tenants to keep one cat or dog without prior permission, provided specified conditions are met.
Tenants must seek permission to keep more than one cat or dog, or any other type of pet.
However, a report outlining a proposed new policy went before councillors for approval recently. All existing pet-owning tenants will be asked to complete a declaration form to enable the council to maintain records.
Where permission is required, tenants will have to submit a pet permission request form.
The report said: “Requests will generally be approved where the type and number of pets are appropriate for the property, can be kept responsibly and are not expected to adversely affect the welfare of the animal, neighbouring residents or the property’s condition.”
Officers said the new policy is about “helping people to have pets within their family and their home, not excluding them”.
In relation to dogs, the policy requires the breed to be declared, microchipped and the number to be provided on the form.
There is also specific reference to fish tanks, which do not require permission if up to 13 gallons, or 59 litres. The maximum permitted tank size will be 30 gallons (135 litres).
The policy will not allow large livestock, flocks of poultry or fowl, prohibited dog types, or tenants with convictions under the Dangerous Dogs Act. Rule breaches could see tenants required to remove a pet or face enforcement action.
The council said the new plan is a proactive approach to Housing (Scotland) Act changes that are due to come into force. It introduced a statutory right for social and private tenants to request permission to keep a pet, which landlords must not unreasonably refuse.
The council unanimously approved the policy, which is expected to be fully operational by next June.
Cllr Ronnie Proctor said: “I do feel that this is something that is for the benefit of all and should be welcomed.”