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The Animal Over-Limit Permit Request Form can be found below. For more information on this permit, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions below.
An Over‑Limit Permit allows a property owner to keep more dogs than the maximum number normally allowed under Section 6.0 of Athabasca County Bylaw 010‑2025.
Without an Over‑Limit Permit you may keep:
• 2 dogs – hamlets, multi‑lot or lake subdivisions
• 3 dogs – properties 10 acres or less
• 5 dogs – properties over 10 acres
You need one if you own more than the allowable number of dogs listed for your property size or zoning.
An Officer with Athabasca County Protective Services reviews each request and has discretion to refuse, approve, or approve with conditions.
Applications can be made in person at the County Office or online on with the form below.
Applications are reviewed within seven (7) working days of receipt.
The Officer may consider multiple factors including but not limited to property size, number of dogs, behaviour history, space, care capacity, and neighbour impact.
No. A permit is not transferable to another person or property.
Yes. Reasonable conditions may be imposed, such as fencing, noise reduction requirements, etc.
Yes. It may be revoked if two or more bona fide complaints are received, operating outside of the terms and conditions of the permit, or if the owner is found guilty of an offense under the bylaw.
You will receive written notice advising of the revocation and compliance steps required.
ou must be in compliance of the Animal Control Bylaw within a specified timeline provided by an Officer, in writing.
Yes. The bylaw authorizes compliance inspections to ensure permit conditions are being met.
Dogs under six (6) months of age are not counted toward the total until they reach that age.
A permit remains valid as long as the permit holder at the property is over the limit, the permit holder moves, or it is revoked.
The permit does not transfer. You must apply for a new permit for the new location if required.
Yes. An Officer may deny an application during the review process.
You may contact Athabasca County Protective Services in writing to request an appeal.
You may face compliance orders, fines, and enforcement action under the bylaw.
No. An acreage is a factor, but responsible care, neighbour impact, and compliance history are also considered.
Yes. Property suitability, behaviour history, and impact on neighbours are considered when issuing a permit.
Yes, unless you have written approval from the County as part of a documented partnership with a rescue, animal shelter, or veterinarian.
No. An acreage is a factor, but responsible care, neighbour impact, and compliance history are also considered.
Yes. Random inspections may be conducted to ensure compliance with permit conditions and the bylaw.
The County will investigate. Two or more bona fide complaints in a calendar year could result in permit revocation.
The County may consider input from neighbouring residents when reviewing an application.
Yes, provided the replacement does not cause you to exceed your approved dog limit.
No. Puppies are exempt until they reach six months of age.
No. Your permit only authorizes the number of mature dogs over six months of age.
Yes, if circumstances change (e.g., property improvements, fencing, reduced noise concerns).
Yes. Keeping more dogs than allowed without a permit is an offence and may result in fines.
Contact Protective Services and discuss the situation with an officer. Temporary accommodation may be considered at the County’s discretion.
You must notify Protective Services as soon as possible. Failure to comply may result in permit revocation and enforcement.
