Animals – What You Need to Know
Dog Fouling
If you own or look after a dog, it’s your responsibility to clean up after it—whether it’s in a public space, a communal garden, or your own garden.
Not cleaning up dog mess is an offence and could lead to a fine from your local council. In serious cases, you could be taken to court and fined up to £1,000.
If you see someone not cleaning up after their dog, you can report it to your local council.
Dangerous or Out-of-Control Dogs
It’s against the law for a dog to be dangerous or out of control—this applies anywhere, including public places, gardens, and even inside homes.
A dog doesn’t have to bite to be considered dangerous. If it behaves aggressively and makes someone feel unsafe, that could be a criminal offence.
If you feel threatened by a dog, call the police.
Once you’ve reported it, please contact us with the incident number or crime reference number. You can call us or use our online reporting form.
Noise from Animals
We want everyone to enjoy their home, and that means being considerate of others. If an animal is making too much noise, try having a friendly chat with your neighbour—they might not realise it’s causing a problem.
Need help with how to start that conversation? Check out our Speaking to Your Neighbour guide: Good Neighbour Guide
If the noise continues; especially if it lasts more than 30 minutes a day for at least 5 days in one week and you don’t feel comfortable speaking to your neighbour or you have spoken to them and it hasn’t helped, you can:
Contact your local Environmental Health team
Keep a record using our Log Sheet with dates, times, and details of what’s happening and report to us.
Animal Welfare Concerns
If you’re worried about the welfare of any animal, please contact the RSPCA for help and advice: RSPCA UK Website
