Question: If a by-law states the written approval for a pet is a decision of the owners corporation, does the committee have the power to approval a pet?
Our by-law states that the written approval of the owners corporation (as distinct from the committee, which is often the case) is required before being able to keep a pet in one’s lot (excluding an assistance animal). Does the decision need to be made at a general meeting, or does the committee have the power to approve the pet and then ratify the request at a subsequent general meeting?
Answer: The strata committee may, on behalf of the owners corporation, approve pets.
While we have not read the by-law, it is not unusual for the strata committee to be delegated the function/power to approve pets under the by-law. Even if the by-law is silent as to the strata committee’s powers, the strata committee may, on behalf of the owners corporation, approve pets subject to the specific terms and conditions of the applicable by-law.
This post appears in Strata News #664.
Leanne Habib Premium Strata E: info@premiumstrata.com.au P: 02 9281 6440