Download the new Managing barking in our community (pdf).
Persistently barking dogs can be a nuisance. Your first step should be to approach the dog's owner and let them know the problem exists (they may be unaware). Download our brochure about why dogs bark (pdf).
If you cannot find a mutually acceptable solution to the problem, then Council will try to help. You should inform us of the problem and the reasons why you believe the dog is barking.
After the initial complaint is received, and if there is sufficient evidence, Council will issue a letter to the owner formally advising the owner of the problem. You will need to record subsequent incidents of nuisance barking to help Council, should enforcement action become necessary. If subsequent complaints are received, an officer from Council's Animal and Pest Services branch will then investigate the situation further. Council may also talk to other people living in your street to see if they have a similar problem with the noise.
If Council is satisfied there is a substantiated noise problem, a barking abatement notice will be served to the dog's owner. The complainant will be required to keep a further record of the barking incidents and sign a declaration that the nuisance exists. If the noise nuisance does not abate Council can issue an infringement penalty (fine).
Your evidence is necessary for Council to take legal action and you must be willing to attend court as a witness if required. The court may only issue a fine to the owner and the dog may still remain on the property.
In extreme cases Council may seize nuisance dogs under provisions of its local law.
Refer to Local laws for further information.