Knox cat curfew 12-month trial underway but community divided on whether it’s working
With Knox’s controversial cat curfew two months into its trial, community members have reported the overnight restriction might not be working, with claims moggies are running riot when they should be inside. What do you think?
Outer East
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Some cat owners appear to be thumbing their noses at Knox Council, with reports of moggies running wild at night despite a cat curfew coming into effect from January 1.
The pilot law, which started on January 1, was brought in by Knox Council in a bid to stop cats killing wildlife and spraying property.
But many residents have taken to the council’s Facebook page claiming cats are flouting the sunset to rise restriction.
Knox city development director Matt Kelleher said since the start of the curfew the council had not fined anyone, despite responding to a number of reports.
“A first offence related to a registered cat will generally be treated with an official warning, as the primary focus at this early stage of the pilot is education,” Mr Kelleher said.
“In the case of a repeat offence, an on-the-spot fine of $83 can be issued — this figure is set by the State Government and not by council.”
He said the council would survey the community throughout the pilot to gather feedback on successful the curfew had been.
Gary Cook said: “Judging by the number of cats that I still see after dark I’m guessing that it’s not working.”
While Pam Woods also said the trial was not working.
“Heard a real cat fight early, early, early this morning,” Ms Woods said.
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“If l have to have kittens removed from my roof space or from between walls again l will hit the roof.”
Knox Leader previously reported in January 2018 the curfew was supposed to begin in 2019 as a permanent part of the domestic animal management plan.
But last year councillors decided to instead trial the curfew, which was put off for another 12 months.