A dog’s constant barking or other frequent noise from the neighbours’ animals can disturb your rest, make it hard to concentrate and lead to disputes between neighbours. In Portugal, the law sets out ways to act when the noise becomes a nuisance, starting with a conversation and turning to the authorities when necessary.
What does the law say about animal noise?
The Regulamento Geral do Ruído (General Noise Regulation), approved by Decree-Law No. 9/2007, sets out the rules for neighbourhood noise, including noise made by animals. Between 11 pm and 7 am, the police can order the disturbance to stop immediately, while during the day they can set a deadline to resolve the situation.
Although natural animal sounds are not prohibited, when the noise becomes persistent or disruptive, this may warrant intervention by the authorities.
What can you do when the noise from your neighbour’s animals is a nuisance?
If the noise persists, there are a few steps you can take to try to resolve the issue without escalating the conflict:
- Talk to your neighbour: explain the situation calmly, as the person responsible may not realise the disturbance they are causing.
- Keep a record of each episode: note the days, times and how long it lasted, so you can describe the problem accurately. You can also record it.
- Contact the police: if the situation continues, you can make a complaint so that it can be assessed and the appropriate measures taken.
- Ask the Câmara Municipal (local council) for help: if there are problems with the conditions in which the animals are kept, the council can tell you what procedures apply.
How can you avoid neighbourhood disputes?
Wherever possible, try to find a solution that respects the residents’ peace and quiet and the animals’ welfare. To this end, owners can enrol their pets in training classes to correct behaviour, increase the frequency of walks or adjust daily routines, thereby helping to reduce noise. If the problem persists despite this, it is important to contact the relevant authorities to find a solution in accordance with the law.
What should you do if the problem persists?
Rest at home is essential and should not be disturbed by the constant noise of the neighbours’ animals. With conversation, understanding and, if necessary, help from the authorities, these situations can be resolved without fuelling conflict, respecting both the peace and quiet of those who live next door and the welfare of the animals themselves.
Rita Diegues
