Alternatively, you can
request an infringement review,
request a payment plan or extension or elect to have the matter
heard at court.
If you don’t act before the due date on your fine, it will
continue through the infringements process and more costs will be added. Act now to avoid further costs and enforcement action.
If you have lost your fine and need the reference number to pay it, please call us on 9658 9658.
Prosecution
In some circumstances or with repeat offending, the owner or person responsible may be prosecuted in court, have their dog seized, declared dangerous or menacing or in some instances destroyed.
In some cases where there has been a serious injury or death to a victim (person or other animal) as a result of a dog attack, we cannot issue a fine and the matter will be referred directly to court. The City of Melbourne will also refer matters to court where an owner repeats offending.
Penalties imposed by the court may include:
- fines
- payment of court and council costs and any expenses incurred by a victim
- being banned from owning a dog for up to 10 years
- imprisonment (in extreme circumstances).
The City of Melbourne may also choose to declare your dog menacing or dangerous and in some cases the court may order your dog be destroyed. See
Court proceedings for information about what to expect at court.
Payment arrangements and extensions
You can only apply for a payment arrangement or extension if you are the person or corporation issued with and named on the fine. Payment arrangements are only possible for fines issued under the
Domestic Animals Act 1994.
There are three types of payment arrangements and extensions:
- receiving a payment extension
- paying in instalments (if you are eligible) or
- requesting a payment arrangement with Fines Victoria
If you wish to apply for a payment arrangement or extension, you must complete an application before the due date or the fine will
continue through the infringements process and additional costs may be added.
Seeking an extension of time to pay
An extension of time to pay may be granted at the City of Melbourne’s discretion. You can apply for a payment extension by completing the form below.
Please note: partial payments are not accepted. The full amount is required to finalise the matter.