LOCAL LAWS
Localised laws, administered by Council designed to protect our community and environments.

Under the Local Government Act 2009, Council is able to create and enforce a number of local laws that reflect community standards and ensure transparency in permitting and approvals.
Regular reviews, including consultation, help keep the following local laws relevant and specific to the communities changing needs.
Making of Local Laws
On 27 August 2024 Cook Shire Council adopted amendments to three Subordiante local laws. More information on these amendments can be found here.
Choose from the areas below to find out more about Cook shire's Local Laws
animal management
Council regulates domestic animals through Local Law No. 2 (Animal Management) 2016 and the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008. Services currently offered by council in regards to domestic animals include dog registration, impounding, investigating dog attacks, rehoming, and supporting responsible pet ownership.
For details, visit our Pets and Animals Page or contact our Local Laws team during office hours on 4082 0500.
parking
Marked parking bays are located in selected areas within Cooktown to improve traffic flow, access to businesses and availability of parking for the disabled. Parking patrols are undertaken to check compliance. Non-compliance with parking local laws can result in a fine being issued to the owner of a vehicle. For more information please refer to Subordinate Local Law No. 3 (Parking)) or contact our Local Laws team.
Illegal Camping
Camping without an approval is not permitted on any land under Council’s control including parks, reserves, roadsides and the Cooktown waterfront precinct. Council conducts regular patrols to check compliance and fines may be issued to individuals camping contrary to local laws. Restrictions on camping and other activities on local government controlled areas can be found within Cook Shire Council’s Subordinate Local Law No. 4 (Local Government Controlled Areas, Facilities and Roads) 2016.
Overgrown and unsightly properties
Overgrown or untidy properties are unsightly, can present a range of hazards and negatively affect the visual appearance of our towns. All residents have a responsibility to keep their properties neat and tidy. Council regularly monitors the condition of allotments within our towns and will issue notices to landholders that do not maintain their properties to a level acceptable to the wider community.
In circumstances where a landholder fails to follow the directions of a notice by a given date Council may perform the work on their behalf and seek to recovery of all costs. For more information please refer to Cook Shire Council’s Local Law No. 3 (Community and Environmental Management) 2016 and it’s subordinate.
Licensing
Cook Shire Council ensures that various activities within the community are conducted safely and in accordance with local regulations through its licensing requirements. Whether you’re operating a market stall, hosting a public event, or using Council-controlled land for commercial purposes, obtaining the appropriate permits is essential. These permits help maintain community standards, ensure public safety, and support the orderly use of public spaces.
Explore the different types of licenses available and learn how to apply to ensure your activities comply with local laws and regulations. Visit the Licensing page for more information.