Barking Dogs
Noise Regulation Bylaw 1090-1981 states that “No person shall own, keep, or harbour any animal which, by its cries or arks, distrubes or tends to disturb, the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of the neighbourhood, or of persons in the vicinity.”
If you have a problem with a barking dog in your neighbourhood
If possible, approach your neighbor and tactfully discuss the problem with them. Many people do not realize that their dog barks or is creating a disturbance in the neighborhood. Many dog owners react well to such a friendly approach. Be prepared with ideas or suggestions, (such as those on the reverse side of this sheet), for compromise. Most people are open to rational negotiations to resolve the problem. This type of approach may avoid a defensive and uncooperative attitude to your requests developed from a Enforcement Officers visit.
If no results are achieved by your friendly visit, submit a completed complaint form or written statement to Mission Animal Control or the District of Mission Bylaw Enforcement Department. An Enforcement Officer will issue a warning letter and order to stop the noise to the dog owner(s) that are creating or permitting the disturbance. You will also receive a written notice requiring you, and any other effected neighbors, to keep a separate record of where the noise comes from, the dates, time and duration the barking occurs. By providing the Enforcement Officer with a written list of barking times they will be able to demonstrate to the alleged offender that the problem is serious and if not corrected immediately legal action will be taken against them.
If the noise continues unabated and if the alleged offender makes no effort to rectify the situation it may become necessary to prosecute. To proceed, the courts require that at the least two neighbors must give evidence of their detailed records. This means that more than one neighbor must be willing to attend court and identify which dog barks, where the dog belongs and how the barking effects them. The Municipality recognizes that carrying out the above may be an arduous and time consuming task for you. To achieve a successful solution and to avoid future frustration, such actions are necessary.
If you have a concern regarding a barking dog in your neighbourhood please contact the District of Mission’s Inspection Services Department at 604-820-3727 or Mission Animal Control Services at 604-826-4496. They can inform you of the procedure regulating your concern and provide you with information.