When people love where they live, they often have one thing in common – a good relationship with the neighbours.
Animals, noise, fences and long grass can be common issues that cause bad relationships between neighbours, but there are steps you can take to deal with these issues.
In most cases, the best way to handle a situation is to discuss it with your neighbour and come to an informal agreement. If the situation escalates, there are laws that can help resolve a dispute. Visit the Neighbours, the Law and You page for more information.
Below is a list of some issues and the rights and responsibilities of residents who want to be ‘good’ neighbours:
Barking dogs
Dogs bark for a variety of reasons and it is important to find out why and then try to resolve the issue in a friendly manner wherever possible. Residents must ensure that noise from animals owned by them does not ‘adversely affect’ the comfort, convenience, privacy or health of another person.
At times the owner may not be aware of the barking and so it is important to talk to them about it before reporting the issue to Council.
Visit the Animal Complaints page for more information.
Unsightly premises/overgrown nature strips
Well-maintained properties add greatly to the beauty and amenity of our municipality. When property is poorly maintained it can lead to perceptions that an area is unsafe, untidy and poorly cared for.
The owner and/or occupier of land must not allow their property to become unsightly, overgrown or dangerous, and nature strips should be regularly maintained by the property residents.
Properties that are found to be unsightly (with overgrown grass/vegetation or a large amount of rubbish) will be issued with a compliance notice from Council. The notice will allow up to 21 days for improvements to be made. If no improvements are made, Council has the option to organise work to be carried out at the cost of the owner.
Visit the Neighbours, the Law and You page for more information.
Fencing
The cost of a fence is divided equally between the adjoining neighbours according to the Victorian Fencing Act 1968. Council will contribute half of the cost of the construction and replacement of a standard fence abutting Council owned properties (including recreation reserves, parks and other buildings).
Property owners and fencing contractors can request the details of property owners for fencing purposes.
Visit the Do I need a building permit? page to find more information about fences.
Council will not negotiate fence disputes between neighbours, however the Department of Justice Dispute Settlement Centre can offer advice. Phone 1300 372 888 for information.
Noise complaints
Noise can be defined as any unwanted sound. What may be pleasurable sound to one person can be noise to another. Over time, noise can cause significant impacts on health and wellbeing, especially when it disturbs sleep.
Residents should always try solving noise disputes directly with their neighbours, but if you are unable to resolve the matter yourself you can contact Council on 8571 1000 or the EPA on 1300 372 842 for further advice.
There are strict guidelines covering when residential noise is allowed. This includes motor vehicle sounds, lawnmowers, power tools and heating and cooling systems.
Visit the Neighbours, the Law and You page for more information.
Burning off
Burning off is generally not permitted in Greater Dandenong due to negative environmental impacts. Waste needs to be disposed of by means other than burning, but if there are no other means available a burn off permit may be considered.
Visit the Neighbours, the Law and You page for more information or phone 8571 1000 to apply for a permit.
