Halifax-area pet owners take note: starting today leashes can no longer exceed three meters in length and someone must be holding on to it, securely.

The leash also must be held securely by a person. Previously, there was no limit on the leash lengths.

The changes came into effect comes about a month after Halifax regional council approved a new animal bylaw — bylaw A-700 — to simplify registering a pet. It also includes changes that aim to help keep animals and the public safer.

Lifetime licence

Another change is the option of a lifetime licence for an animal with a microchip. The one-time cost is $200, with a reduced rate of $75 for spayed or neutered animals. Seniors get a 50 per cent discount.

Pet owners can still opt to renew pet licences annually, but the annual licence will now expire 12 months from the date of purchase rather than expiring every year at the end of March and being charged at a pro-rated cost if the licence is bought throughout the year.

Peace of mind

The city says registering pets provides peace of mind in knowing compliance officers will attempt to return lost pets to their owners before resorting to dropping the animal off at a shelter, which comes with an added cost and stress to the animal.

Other changes adopted in the updated animal bylaw include new rules for tethering, muzzles, noise, and the issue of stray livestock, including poultry.

Wherever livestock is currently permitted in the municipality, the owner must ensure the animals are prevented from running at large. Bylaw A-700 also gives authority to issue orders to build and or repair a structure to contain the livestock.