Be Aware of Shared Walls Council Policy - Neighbour Dispute Mediation PolicyIf you live in a townhouse, duplex, apartment block or any residence where you and your neighbours share adjacent living spaces, position noisy devices such as kitchen appliances, washing machines, tumble dryers and even TVs and speakers away from the shared walls where possible.
Air Conditioner Noise Noise emissions from air conditioners must comply with the assigned levels set by the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997 at all times.
If you are planning to buy an air conditioner, the Fairair website will help you make sure the air conditioner you buy meets the noise regulations, saving you money and energy and helping to prevent potential noise issues.
Noisy Residential Equipment Most households use noisy equipment from time to time, such as lawnmowers, power tools and musical instruments. Consider the time of day you’re using noisy equipment to minimise disturbing your neighbours.
The Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997 provide for reasonable use of this type of equipment and provide guidance regarding the hours of use. Specified equipment, other than musical instruments, may be used for up to two hours per day, and musical instruments may be used for up to one hour per day. All specified equipment may be used between the hours of 7.00am and 7.00pm Monday to Saturday, and 9.00am to 7.00pm on Sunday and Public Holidays.
The equipment should be used in a reasonable manner, which does not interfere with the health, welfare, convenience, comfort or amenity of surrounding neighbours.
If you’re regularly finding the noise from your neighbour’s air conditioner or other household equipment disturbing, it is a good idea to give them the heads up, as they may not be aware of this.
Having a friendly discussion with your neighbour to try and reach a satisfactory solution is the best approach, but if you are struggling to find a good time to talk to them in person, you can make contact with them using our Common Concerns Card.
Control Your Dog Keep your dog on a leash when it is in a public place, or if it has a habit of exploring your neighbours lawn or garden; especially if they have pets of their own, and make sure you clean up after it. Even if it is your own back yard, it is important to clean up after animals, as apart from the horrible smell, animal faeces support breeding of stable flies; also known as filth flies. These flies feed on blood and inflict painful bites on dogs, cats and humans, making outdoor living a nightmare for you and your pets!
If you have a particularly noisy dog, this may annoy your neighbours. Consider their lifestyle and imagine how you might feel if perhaps you or your newborn was woken from a much-needed nap by the sudden yapping of a nearby dog. If you have problems controlling your dogs barking or whining, consider talking to your local vet or animal organisation for advice.
If you are regularly finding the noise from your neighbours’ dog disturbing, it is a good idea to give them the heads up as they may not be aware of this, especially if it happens while they are out.
Cat Considerations Cats are nocturnal, meaning they will wander further at night and may explore your neighbour’s lawn or garden. We encourage you to keep your cat contained within your property boundaries, not only to reduce hunting but also to help protect your cat. Keeping your cat contained will help ensure harmony for everyone – you, your cat, neighbours, and local wildlife. For more information on the benefits of keeping cats contained, check out our
Cat Ownership Rules and Management webpage.
Parking Etiquette When you park your vehicle be careful not to obstruct footpaths, block anyone’s access, or make them have to pull out of a very tight spot. Please don’t park on your neighbour's verge without their permission, and avoid parking opposite their driveway as this can make it difficult when leaving property.
If you leave home in the early hours of the morning or arrive home late at night, try not to over rev your engine.
Party Alert If you’re planning a party, let your neighbours know in advance and advise them the expected start and finish times. Give them a contact number in case things get too loud. If you get on well with your neighbours why not invite them too?
Be sure to stick to the agreed times and ask your guests to be considerate when leaving. It is also good idea to notify the City’s Community Safety Service on 1300 653 643 and the local police on 131 444.
If you are struggling to find a good time to let your neighbours know of your party plans in person, you can contact with them using our Letting You Know Card.
Put Rubbish Out on the Right Day Put your green and yellow topped bins out on the day it is due for collection or the night before if it is an early pick up. If you accidentally miss the collection, bring it back to your property immediately and try to contain it well. Refuse can attract vermin, insects and other pests and is unsightly.
For more information visit our Waste, Recycling and FOGO hub.
Dividing Fences Fences between neighbours are a topic that often needs discussion and it is helpful to understand your rights and obligations.
If you are struggling to find a good time to talk your neighbour in person, you can make contact with them using our Common Concerns Card.
Trees on Private Property Trees are frequently a source of concern, which can often be resolved through a friendly discussion.
The City of Melville does not become involved in most private tree issues, as this is a civil matter; which means that the issue needs to be resolved between the neighbours.
If you are struggling to find a good time to talk your neighbour in person, you can make contact with them using our Common Concerns Card.