Dog owners in England run the risk of £1,000 fines for their pet's barking - after a police warning. Police experts have shared a warning for pet owners and those with dogs at home as we head deeper into autumn and winter.
Issuing a warning for pooch owners, Ask the Police explains: "You should speak to your neighbour about the problem, as they may not be aware that it is happening.
"Unless there is any evidence of the dog being mistreated, then the RSPCA will not be able to help. If you do believe that the dog is being mistreated, you can contact the RSPCA via their telephone number 0300 1234 999.
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"The noise could be classed as a noise nuisance, so you would need to report it to the Environmental Health department at your local authority. Please see the website in Related Information to report a noise complaint to your local authority."
Ask the Police's advice continues: "For long-term problems, you may be asked by your local authority to keep a diary of information about the noise, such as when it occurs, how loud it is etc., and in some cases you may be provided with some equipment to record the noise. These two steps are designed to gather evidence.
"If the council then decides that someone is causing a statutory noise nuisance, they must issue a 'noise abatement' order (i.e. a chance for them to turn the noise down), which if broken can lead to a fine, although it is likely they will give your neighbour the opportunity to turn the TV/music down without further action. The whole process can take some time to complete."
Councils can also issue warning notices for complaints about noise exceeding allowed levels between 11 pm and 7 am. In severe cases, this may escalate to being considered a 'statutory nuisance', provided certain conditions are met.
If this occurs, a fine of £110 for dwellings or a £500 fine for licensed premises within 14 days may be imposed.
If an individual does not pay the notice or do it on time, it may lead to a conviction and fine of up to £1,000 for dwellings and an unlimited amount for licensed premises.