Keeping horses in the ACT
Owning a horse is a big responsibility. There are many factors to consider, including:
- where to keep your horse
- what shelter and space it will have
- what equipment is needed, such as a bridle and saddle
- its access to food and water.
It is the owner’s legal responsibility to make sure their horse is provided with the basic requirements to keep it healthy and happy.
Animal Welfare (Welfare of Horses in the ACT) Mandatory Code of Practice 2024
The Animal Welfare (Welfare of Horses in the ACT) Mandatory Code of Practice 2024 sets the minimum standards that must be met for the welfare of horses.
The Code applies to all horses, ponies, donkeys and mules that are kept in the ACT.
It outlines that owners are responsible for the health and wellbeing of horses, including providing them with:
- ready access to food and water
- freedom of movement to stand, stretch, turn around, walk forward, lie down and roll
- regular exercise
- have the ability to perform natural behaviours
- social contact with other horses or people
- accommodation that neither harms nor causes undue strain or discomfort
- protection from disease, and regular inspections to assess the need for attention to feet, teeth and parasite control
- rapid identification and treatment of injury and disease.
For more information visit the animal welfare page.
Horse trails
There are approximately 500 kilometres of designated horse trails available for horse riders on public land in the ACT. In addition, there are many areas where horse riding is permitted on the extensive fire tail network. Click on the map to view horse paddocks and trails in the ACT.
For information on how to cycle around horses see advice to cyclists about horses.
