How long can a dog bark legally in the UK?
Pierce Schmitt
2025-06-20 23:46:48
Count answers: 1
It is reasonable to expect, and it is not against the law for a dog to bark. However, if the disturbance is substantial enough to be classed as a Statutory Nuisance then it is likely that a Noise Abatement Notice will be served on the dog’s owner requiring them to stop the nuisance. It is a criminal offence not to comply with such a notice and the council may prosecute and you could be faced with a fine up to £5,000, plus costs.
America Walker
2025-06-20 23:10:04
Count answers: 2
Problems arise when dog barking becomes excessive and unreasonable. Examples of excessive barking can include: frequent intermittent barking over lengthy periods; sustained barking over more than a minute or two; barking early in the morning or late at night. If a neighbour complains to the council we will investigate if your dog/s barking is causing an unreasonable disturbance to your neighbours. Officers will apply their professional judgement when making their decision. If it’s a nuisance the ASB route will be taken. If it amounts to a Statutory Nuisance we may take enforcement action under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
Krystina Frami
2025-06-20 22:35:52
Count answers: 3
Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, a barking dog can be a statutory noise nuisance. An owner could be taken to court if nothing is done to stop the nuisance. If you don’t take steps to solve the problem and we conclude that the noise created amounts to a statutory nuisance, a noise abatement notice can be served requiring the noise to be reduced to an acceptable level. If you fail to comply with an abatement notice, you could face prosecution and a fine of up to £5,000 (and possibly further fines of up to £500 for each day on which the offence continues after conviction).
Ted Kirlin
2025-06-20 21:44:27
Count answers: 6
Whilst there is no set definition as to what constitutes nuisance barking, owners can find themselves in a legal dispute over the matter. Factors taken into account in making this assessment include: The volume of the barking The duration of the barking The time of day in which the barking takes place. It will be regarded as a statutory nuisance if the noise is of a character which makes it intrusive or irritating. If a dog noise nuisance complaint is made to a Council, they must investigate. If the barking continues, the person responsible for the dog may be prosecuted under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. If convicted of breaching a Noise Abatement Notice, the offender may be ordered to pay an unlimited fine and the Court may impose a Criminal Behaviour Order, which could have the effect of requiring them to reduce the number of dogs owned.
Izabella Gulgowski
2025-06-20 20:10:11
Count answers: 1
It’s normal and natural for dogs to bark. But when barking happens a lot, or goes on for a long time, it can be annoying and upsetting for your neighbours. This leaflet will also help you understand why your dog barks, and tell you about some practical steps you can take to stop or cut down the barking.
Parker Hills
2025-06-20 18:04:38
Count answers: 2
The occasional bark or 'woof' is usually not a problem for neighbours and others in the community but when barking becomes disruptive, it's often considered unacceptable and unpleasant to many people. If you're concerned about a dog barking excessively near you, there are things you can do: Speak to the owner. If speaking to your neighbour hasn't worked or isn't an option, try contacting your local council about the noise complaint. If there is a welfare concern they will contact us.
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