Mosquitoes and the Law

Mosquitoes may represent a public health risk. A public health risk being something that is likely to be harmful to human health or contribute to disease in humans, this includes mosquitoes.

Under the Public Health Act 2005 residents are responsible for the control of mosquitoes on their properties.

When there is a public health risk caused by mosquitoes, Council is responsible for administering and enforcing the Public Health Act 2005 in order to remove the risk.

A Public Health Order may be issued to the owner/occupier of the premises requiring them to eliminate the mosquito harbourage to Council’s satisfaction within a certain period of time. If the owner/occupier does not comply with the Public Health Order, the owner/occupier may receive a fine, face prosecution or Council may then apply to the Court for an Enforcement Order to have the work undertaken at the owner’s/occupier’s expense.