Disputes and complaints

Overview

Isaac Regional Council doesn’t deal with neighbourhood disputes however if you are experiencing a noise or odour nuisance you can lodge a complaint with Council and an Officer will investigate the matter. 

Odour and Air Nuisance  

The state of our air is an important factor impacting our quality of life. It affects the amenity and health of the community and directly impacts our lives in many ways. 

If you believe there is an odour nuisance impacting you, Council may be able to assist. 

Visit the Air Quality page for a list of common odour and air complaints and who to contact for help. 

Noise Nuisance

Residential noise that occurs early in the morning or late at night, on weekends or on a public holiday can become a source of stress for many. 

Noise nuisances are one of the most common sources of problems between neighbours. If you’re experiencing a noise nuisance that hasn’t been resolved after talking to your neighbour or if you’re uncomfortable raising it with your neighbour, Council may be able to help. 

Visit the Environmental Noise page for a list of common noise nuisance types and who to contact for help.

Barking nuisances 

Barking is a normal behaviour for dogs and an important means of communication, however barking can become a problem if it becomes excessive.

Barking becomes a problem when it;

  • Is excessive
  • Annoys the neighbours and those living in the vicinity
  • Annoys the dog owner  

What is excessive barking? 

Barking is considered as excessive if it occurs for extended periods of time, too frequently, or at inappropriate times of day or night, and it must be addressed. Barking may be classified as a noise nuisance if it causes distress to the neighbours or owners. 

How can you help? 

The most effective and successful way of managing a nuisance dog is for the person affected by the problem to communicate their concerns directly with the dog owner. 

It is possible the dog owner may not even be aware that their dog is excessively barking and causing a problem for neighbours. Many dogs will bark when their owners are not at home, and this may be due to separation anxiety.

What are your options?

You should carefully consider all issues and possibilities before deciding on an appropriate course of action. Once you have decided the barking is excessive and disturbing your way of life, please consider the following options to manage the situation. 

  • Approach the dog’s owner as soon as the problem arises and state your case clearly and politely
  • Contact the Council if the dog’s owner is unapproachable, or you are not comfortable approaching the dog owner

Visit the Nuisance Animals page for more information about animal noise nuisances and the complaint process. 

Livestock on roads