Rural residents in Gannawarra Shire Council are urged to secure their livestock due to below-average rainfall in the first two months of the year.
The council's Local Laws team warned that unsecured fences may lead to animals roaming onto rural roads.
Chief executive Geoff Rollinson said historically, livestock roam to find more food during times of dry weather.
“A 500-kilogram cow seeking food on the other side of a fence is no match for fences that are not in adequate condition,” he said.
“Wandering livestock are also a danger for motorists, with incidents costing time, money, and in the worst case scenario, lives.”
Under the Impounding of Livestock Act 1994, owners could face fines up to $7,750 for wilfully permit or cause livestock to trespass.
Additional fines of $500 to $2,000 may apply under Council's Community Amenity Local Law for inadequate fencing.
To prevent escapes, livestock owners are advised to ensure all fences and gates are in good condition and suitable for containing animals.
“It does not matter if you are a landowner or a lessee, all rural residents who own livestock play a role in ensuring animals cannot escape from their properties,” Mr Rollinson said.