A barrister has outlined the legal remedies available to people being driven 'mad' by noisy neighbours' dogs. Daniel Barnett, who has more than 57,000 YouTube subscribers and presents The Legal Layman on LBC Radio, explained the law in a video focusing on neighbour disputes involving animal noise.
Barnett emphasised that while informal resolution is best, the Environmental Protection Act 1990 applies when that fails. Local authorities must investigate noise complaints, but can only act if the barking amounts to a statutory nuisance—defined as noise that 'unreasonably and substantially interferes with the use or enjoyment of your property'. Occasional barking, such as at a passing cat, is unlikely to qualify.
Where a nuisance is confirmed, councils can serve an abatement notice demanding the owner reduce noise, with fines for each day the barking continues. Separate powers allow action for night-time noise (11pm to 7am) even below the statutory nuisance threshold. Fixed penalty notices of up to £110 can be issued, and prosecution may lead to fines of up to £1,000.
Barnett stressed the importance of evidence, advising residents to keep diaries, make recordings, and use council apps to log noise levels. If council action is insufficient, residents can take the matter to magistrates' court under Section 82 of the 1990 Act. He also noted that dogs can be seized in extreme cases.
