Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Making a Complaint about a Barking Dog
How can I make a complaint about a barking dog in my neighbourhood?
There are a few ways to begin the complaint process about a barking dog. You can:
It is important to understand that contacting the City to tell them about a barking dog (via phone, email or the online form) is just the first step. As part of the compliant process for barking dogs you will be required to fill out a “Noise Evidence Package” where you will have to document the dates and times when the barking takes place.
What will happen after I call or email the City or fill out the online complaint form?
A letter will be sent to the address you provided from the Municipal Law Enforcement explaining that we have received a complaint and that the person who complained (name to remain confidential) has been sent a “Noise Evidence Package” to document dates and times of the noise which could be considered evidence. A Municipal Law Enforcement Officer will be assigned to the file and they will review the evidence and if the noise problem is not solved the Officer will investigate further to determine if additional actions are required.
What could happen if the dog noise does not stop?
An Officer will review the “Evidence Package” completed by the complainant and if the investigation determines an offence has occurred a ticket (Provincial Offices Notice) may be issued in the amount of $200.00 + $35.00 victim surcharge + $5.00 court costs, in addition court proceedings may be started.
Who do I contact if I think the dog is not licensed?
When we receive a complaint regarding a barking dog we check our records to see if a dog licence has been purchased for that address. If there is no licence an application form is sent to the property owner advising them to purchase a licence immediately and Animal Control will follow up accordingly. For information about Animal Control, please go to www.hamilton.ca/animalcontrol.