Council has strict conditions that need to be adhered to when using a cat trap. If any of these conditions are not adhered too, the trap will be removed by the Animal Management Officer immediately.

• Cat traps are to be used to catch cats only. They are not permitted to be used to trap wildlife for any reason. Penalties can apply for catching wildlife.
• Cat traps are only to be set Sunday to Thursday evenings unless otherwise authorised. Cat traps must not be set between Friday and Saturday evenings.
• Council must be contacted on 9205 5555 between 9.00am and 10.00am Monday to Friday to collect any trapped cats.
• The cat trap must be kept in a shady or sheltered position. Sufficient water and food must be provided at all times. The cat trap should be covered with a towel or blanket to help calm the cat until it is collected by an Animal Management Officer.
• The cat trap is provided for up to a maximum of seven days and is to be returned whether or not a cat has been caught.
• Any cats caught must be dealt with under the provisions of the Domestic Animals Act 1994 and by an authorised officer only.
• Once a trap is in the possession of the applicant, it remains the responsibility of that person until returned. A fee of $128.00 will be charged if the trap is damaged, lost or stolen.
• Traps are constructed in such a manner to allow for the humane capture of cats under current legislation. They are not to be altered or modified in any manner.
• Traps are only to be placed on the property occupied by the complainant.
• Photo identification is required prior to receiving the cat trap. i.e Drivers Licence, Passport, etc.

Yarra has a limited number of cat traps available for community hire. Most of the year these traps are often in high demand, this can result in delays of availability.

Once the application has been submitted and rental fee paid, an Animal Management Officer will contact you to arrange collection. Collections will generally occur at Richmond Town Hall.

The Animal Management Officer will show you how to set the cat trap up, provide advice on where to place it and what food to use.

You will need to ensure you bring identification when collecting the cat trap.

Cat traps must only be placed on your private property.

Rental periods are for a maximum of 7 days due to the high demand.

If there is further availability, you can discuss this with the Animal Management Officer and a further 7 day rental fee may apply.

Once a cat is captured you will need to do the following:

• Move the cat trap to a shady or sheltered area
• Cover the cat trap with a towel or blanket to calm the cat until it is collected;
• Call Council on 9205 5555 between 9:00am – 10:00am

There are several applicable sections in the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulations which relate to cat trapping and correct transportation, this includes ensuring you meet the requirements for the cats welfare such as; feeding the cat, keeping it warm or out of the sun.

If the cat requires shelter, place a towel over the cage and if the cat is sick or injured, Veterinary assistance must be provided immediately. Please contact our Animal Management Officers on 9205 5555 for further advice.

To return the trap, please contact the Animal Management Officer on 9205 5555.