It is perfectly normal and reasonable for animals to make noise from time to time. Animal noise is considered a nuisance when it unreasonably disrupts or inhibits activities on surrounding land. The animal owner may not realise there is an issue, or the level of impact the noise is having on neighbours.
Our Local Law No. 2 (Animal Management) outlines the factors considered when determining whether animal noise is a nuisance. These include the:
- number of complaints and the premises they come from
- type of land e.g. residential, rural/residential, etc.
- frequency, time and duration of the noise:
- more than 3min in a 30min period on any day from 10pm to 7am or
- more than 6min in a 1hr period on any day from 7am to 10pm.
Complaint Process
The complaint investigation process for animal noise nuisance can be lengthy and hard to fix. We will work with the owner and complainant to find a practical, long-term solution. The process involves a number of steps.
- Talk to your neighbour as they may not realise their animal is bothering you, especially if it is noisy when they are not home. In many cases the owner will be happy to find a solution. If the problem persists, or you are unable to make contact with the owner, contact your neighbour by letter. This example shows the information that should be included. You can remain anonymous if you prefer but this step must be completed.
- If the noise nuisance continues more than seven days after speak/write to your neighbour, complete the Animal Noise Monitoring Form. You must make contact with your neighbour before completing this form. Ensure all fields are completed with precise notes over a 10-day period so we can determine if there is a pattern of behaviour. We cannot action incomplete or out-of-date forms. Send your completed form to us with 28 days via:
- online
- in person at our customer service centres.
We will review the Animal Noise Monitoring Form in conjunction with other factors including:
- proximity to neighbours
- other animals/wildlife in the area
- external influences e.g. people walking past
- exercise/attention the animal receives.
The resulting action may include:
- contacting the owner and discussing cause and solutions
- doorknock/survey to corroborate information
- monitoring noise at identified problem times
- ensuring microchip and registration compliance.