New BMC Guidelines for Pet Owners and Stray Animal Care in Mumbai
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued detailed guidelines for pet owners, animal feeders, and various institutions to ensure the well-being of both people and street animals in Mumbai.
Pet OwnersStray AnimalsBmc GuidelinesAnimal Welfare Board Of IndiaMumbaiReal Estate NewsJun 19, 2025
The rules cover important areas such as feeding street dogs, licensing pet dogs, responsibilities of societies, and handling of animals in public spaces. The number of people keeping dogs as household companions is increasing. Even animal lovers and activists are showing compassion towards street dogs by feeding them and providing veterinary and other support. However, conflicts can sometimes arise between pet owners and care-givers of street dogs on one hand, and Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) and Apartment Owners Associations (AOAs) on the other.
Major Points from the New Guidelines
For Animal Feeders and Care Givers:
- Feeding of street dogs and cats is legal and protected by law.
- Feeders should do so at designated, clean spots away from children’s areas and public pathways.
- Feeding must be hygienic and should not involve raw meat or leftover food.
- Feeders should help with sterilisation and vaccination of the animals.
- Feeding should be done early morning or late evening when public movement is low.
For Housing Societies (RWAs / AOAs):
- Societies cannot ban pets or decide pet size. Such restrictions go against citizens’ fundamental rights.
- Societies should not restrict feeding of street animals, but can set feeding times and locations in consultation with residents.
- Animal cruelty, harassment of feeders, or abandoning pets are punishable offences.
- Societies are encouraged to form Animal Welfare Committees as per ABC Rules 2023.
Guidelines for Pet Owners:
- All pet dogs must be registered with the BMC under Section 191B of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, 1888. Keeping unlicensed dogs is illegal.
- Owners must keep their pets clean, vaccinated, dewormed, and preferably sterilised.
- Dogs must be kept on a leash in public. Pet owners must clean up after their pets when they defecate in public places.
- Pets are allowed in lifts and public spaces. Societies cannot ban them. However, alternate lifts may be suggested.
- Aggressive behaviour by pets should be addressed. Children under 18 must not walk dogs alone.
Guidelines for Schools, Tech Parks, and Public Institutions:
- Animals like dogs or cats living in the premises must not be relocated. They should be sterilised and vaccinated, and returned to the same area.
- Institutions must provide food, water, and shelter for community animals.
- Staff must be trained to handle animals without cruelty.
- Signs and awareness messages should be placed around campus to educate people on coexisting with animals.
For any complaints, licensing issues, or information related to animal care, the public can contact the BMC Dog Control Unit through the helpline number: 9635839888. Complaints can also be submitted on the website: https://vhd.mcgm.gov.in/
These guidelines aim to create a harmonious environment where both humans and animals can coexist peacefully, ensuring the well-being of all residents in Mumbai.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the new guidelines issued by the BMC for pet owners and stray animal care?
The BMC has issued guidelines covering feeding street dogs, licensing pet dogs, responsibilities of societies, and handling of animals in public spaces. These guidelines aim to reduce conflict and ensure the well-being of both people and street animals in Mumbai.
Can housing societies in Mumbai ban pets?
No, housing societies cannot ban pets or decide pet size. Such restrictions go against citizens’ fundamental rights. Societies can, however, set feeding times and locations for street animals in consultation with residents.
What are the responsibilities of animal feeders and care givers according to the new guidelines?
Animal feeders and care givers should feed street dogs and cats at designated, clean spots, ensure hygienic feeding, help with sterilisation and vaccination, and feed early morning or late evening when public movement is low.
Are pet owners required to register their dogs with the BMC?
Yes, all pet dogs must be registered with the BMC under Section 191B of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, 1888. Keeping unlicensed dogs is illegal.
What should institutions like schools and tech parks do to care for animals on their premises?
Institutions must provide food, water, and shelter for community animals, ensure they are sterilised and vaccinated, train staff to handle animals without cruelty, and place signs and awareness messages to educate people on coexisting with animals.
Related News Articles
CIDCO Mandated to Register as Promoter with MahaRERA for Land Plot Sales
In a significant ruling, the Maharashtra Real Estate Appellate Tribunal (MREAT) has directed CIDCO to register as a promoter with the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) for the sale of land plots. This decision is expected to bring mo
Mumbai Man Falls Victim to Rs 10 Lakh Task Completion Scam: Here's How It Works
A Mumbai resident recently lost a staggering Rs 10 lakh to a task completion scam, highlighting the growing threat of such fraudulent activities in the digital age. Learn how these scams operate and how to protect yourself.
Mumbai Real Estate Market Sees Strong Demand and Positive Outlook
The real estate market in Mumbai is experiencing strong demand, with December registration data showing a significant increase. This positive trend is expected to benefit major players in the sector, including Macrotech Developers, Oberoi Realty, and Godr
Giulia Pellegrino Joins Atmosphere Living as Global Key Accounts Manager
Atmosphere Living, a leading real estate brand with a strong focus on hospitality, has appointed Giulia Pellegrino as their Global Key Accounts Manager in the sales department. This strategic move aims to enhance the company's presence in the global marke
Signature Global Cuts Net Debt by 29% in Q3 to Rs 720 Crore, Supported by Strong Sales and Internal Cash Flows
Last month, Signature Global announced the acquisition of a 16.12-acre land in Gurugram for nearly Rs 300 crore. The company plans to develop a housing project with an estimated 27-28 lakh square feet of built-up area.
Prestige Estates Projects: Share Price Dips 2% Amid Ambitious Rs 30,000 Crore Housing Goals
Real estate giant Prestige Estates Projects saw its share price dip by 2 percent on Friday, despite the company's ambitious plans to invest Rs 30,000 crore in upcoming housing projects across major cities like Mumbai and Chennai. The company's leadership