Outline of Council’s Dog Barking Complaint handling
procedure
Please note that due to the unique nature of each incident, steps may at times be taken out of this specific order if
it is required.
1.
Complaint received at Council regarding barking dog.
2.
Complainant supplied with template anonymous letter to dog owner. If investigation of complaint still sought by
complainant, request made that the complaint be formalised by submitting completed and signed Dog Barking
Complaint form and signed statement.
3.
Dog Barking Complaint form received at Council.
4.
Site visit to complainant undertaken (where possible). Complainant provided with information, first 7 day Barking Dog
Diary and asked to complete and return items to Council within 14 days.
5.
If first 7-day Barking Dog Diary returned within 14 days, assessment made by Dog Management Officer. If diary not
returned or diary does not substantiate claim, case is closed and complainant informed that no further action will
occur at this time.
6.
If diary assessed and deemed to substantiate need for further investigation, Dog Management Officer attends area
and observes barking.
7.
Contact made with dog owner advising of complaint, noise pattern and ongoing investigation. Information and
suggestions on dealing with the matter provided.
8.
Complainant notified that dog owner has been informed of complaint and investigation. Complainant required to
complete another 7 day Barking Dog Diary to provide further information. Completed diaries must be returned to
Council within 14 days or investigation closed and both parties informed that no further action to occur at this time.
9.
If second 7 day Barking Dog Diary returned within 14 days, information assessed by Dog Management Officer.
10.
If diary information supports that barking still problematic, dog owner informed of ongoing problem and that they have
7 more days to take alternative action to resolve the issue. Dog owner warned of possibility of a Control Order,
prosecution or expiation in event of ongoing problem.
11.
During this time, further evidence gathered by Dog Management Officer as part of investigation. May include
observation of the situation, or seeking corroboration from other neighbours.
12.
Complainant advised they must keep another 7 day Barking Dog Diary, returned to Council within 14 days. If not
returned within 14 days or barking no longer problematic, case closed and both parties informed that no further action
to occur at this time.
13.
After this 7 day period, evidence from all sources reviewed. If third Barking Dog Diary and evidence gathered by Dog
Management Officer suggests barking still problematic, Dog Management Officer issues enforcement action in
accordance with Council’s Enforcement Policy. Enforcement Action may take the form of expiation, a Control Order to
cease barking or prosecution.
14.
Both parties informed of outcome.