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Noise

The information explains which noise issues we can investigate, which ones we can not, and how residents can report noise concerns.

In this section:

Understanding dog barking

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 neighbours.

First of all, try talking to your neighbour about the problem. You may find this difficult, but often people are unaware their dog is causing a problem.

  • Plan what you are going to say.
  • Be polite, keep calm and try to keep things light-hearted and friendly.
  • Explain how their noise is affecting you
  • Avoid approaching your neighbour when the noise is actually happening. You are more likely to be angry and have an argument

If you do not feel comfortable speaking in person, you can write a polite letter explaining the issue.

How we could help

If you've spoken to your neighbour and things haven't improved, contact us for help. When you make a complaint, we will write to your neighbour to let them know their dog is causing a problem.

We will not tell your neighbour who has made the complaint. However, sometimes a neighbour will guess who has complained or may ask you.

Email: environmentalprotection@luton.gov.uk

We hope the letter will resolve the problem. However, if the noise continues you will need to contact us again. Your case will then be passed to an officer in the Environmental Protection team for investigation.

The officer will need to decide if your neighbour's dog is causing a legal nuisance. If the noise happens during office hours an officer will visit you. If the noise happens at other times, we will install recording equipment in your home.

If your neighbour's dog is causing a legal nuisance, an abatement notice will be served. The notice will require the noise nuisance to stop.

We may prosecute your neighbour (maximum fine £5000)

To report an act of cruelty or neglect or if you are concerned about the welfare of an animal, please call the RSPCA. If you think your dog may be barking too much, download our barking dog advice sheet.

Barking dog advice sheet (PDF, 143.5KB)

When noise is considered a statutory nuisance

Noise may be classed as a statutory nuisance if it is unreasonable and affects your ability to enjoy your home. Factors include:

  • time of day
  • loudness
  • duration
  • frequency
  • location