Nuisance Dogs and Cats

Nuisance Dogs

A dog is a nuisance if it:

1. Is consistently and regularly escaping the confines of the property where it is usually kept and roams on public land unattended, or
2. Makes a noise, that persistently occurs or continues to such a degree that it unreasonably interferes with the peace, comfort or convenience of any person in any other premises, or
3. Repeatedly defecates on property (other than a public place) outside the property on which it is ordinarily kept, or
4. Repeatedly runs at or chases any person, animal (other than vermin) or vehicle, or
5. Endangers the health of any person or animal (other than vermin), or
6. Repeatedly cause substantial damage to anything outside the property on which it is ordinarily kept.

Nuisance Cats

A cat is a nuisance if it:

1. Repeatedly makes a noise that persistently occurs or continues to such a degree that it unreasonably interferes with the peace, comfort or convenience of any person in any other premises, or
2. Repeatedly damages anything outside the property on which it is ordinarily kept.

If you believe that there is a nuisance dog/cat in your area the first thing you should do is to try and talk to your neighbour. By discussing it with them it gives them the opportunity to resolve the issue before it escalates any further.

If there's no change in the animal’s behaviour, you can contact a Community Justice Centre (listed below). They arrange for a mediator to assist you and your neighbour with a resolution you are both happy with. This is a cost free service to the public and has a 95% success rate.*

If the other options have not worked call us on (02) 9942 2111. We will investigate the complaint and determine whether the dog is in fact a nuisance and act accordingly. You will be advised of our decision on closing of the investigation.

* As per the Department of Environment and Conservation website.

Community Justice Centre

• Level 8, Goodsell Building, 8–12 Chifley Square Sydney NSW 2000
  Ph: (02) 9228 7455
  Fax: (02) 9228 7456
  TTY: 1800 671 964
• Website     www.cjc.nsw.gov.au