[Ruffy]

Thanks for the tips Whale, I will get the ball rolling with the EC secretary.

Apologies in advance as I am new to the world of strata – would you be able to expand on your comment about strata by-laws being instructive rather than prohibitive? Is this something in the Act or have there been cases which confirm this?

The actual wording of the by-law is “Subject to s49(4) an owner or occupier of a lot must not keep any dog on the lot or common property…an owner or occupier of a lot may keep an animal other than a dog on a lot or common property provided they have first obtained the written consent of the Owners Corporation…”

Cheers

[Ruffy]

Thanks for your responses. I’m aware that it can be quite a long and drawn out procedure, so for the time being, I am happy to rent to a non pet owner. CBF hit the nail on the head, I’m interested in taking steps now so that the option is there in the future.

I am not on the EC, however in terms of next steps, the AGM is scheduled for December so I was hoping to raise it as an agenda point then. Prior to this, is there a way I can contact all the owners to gauge their response and concerns that may be raised?

I know keeping dogs in apartments is a fiercely debated topic. I agree with the sentiment that owners who choose not to own a pet should be unaffected by those who do and pet owners who are responsible and considerate of their neighbours shouldn’t be deprived of the enjoyment that their pet brings. However, I wouldn’t want this thread to become a slinging match as to whether it is right or wrong for dogs to stay in an apartment. My (perhaps naive) understanding is that the strata rules should balance the needs of the current owners. This special by-law was introduced to ban dogs almost 10 years ago because that was the wish of the owners at the time, however attitudes may have changed with units changing hands and I don’t see the harm in raising it for consideration by the other owners.

[Author]

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