We understand that pets are part of the family, but sometimes their behaviour, or mess, can cause problems for your neighbours.

You can keep small pets without asking, but if you want a cat or dog, you'll need our permission first. We'll usually say yes if it's reasonable, but we'll think about:

  • How big your home is
  • How many people live there
  • What type and size of pet you want

Pet permission form


Important things to remember

  • You cannot breed animals to sell them without getting written permission from us and licenses or other permissions needed to be a commercial breeder.
  • Some animals are not suitable as pets and dangerous animals are not allowed.
  • You must not leave the pet for long periods of time in your home.
  • You must not mistreat or neglect the pet or keep them in poor or unsanitary conditions.
  • You must make sure you comply with any legislation relating to the pet such as microchipping.
  • Your pets must not disturb other people, including our staff and workers.
  • You must clean up after them in your home and shared areas. Mess should not be allowed to accumulate and should be cleared every few days.
  • You need to have proper fencing or equipment to keep your pet under control.


Dangerous Dogs

If we allow you to keep a dog that's listed as dangerous under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, you must follow that law. Remember, all dogs must wear a tag showing the owner's name and address.


Withdrawing consent

If we withdraw our permission for you to keep a pet, you must remove it from your home and the area around it. If you don't, you'll be breaking your tenancy agreement.

 

Reporting concerns

If you have concerns about the welfare of a pet, you should contact the RSPCA on 0300 123 4999.

If you are being disturbed by a neighbour’s pet we suggest you have a friendly word with your neighbour because they might not be aware there is a problem.

You could try using our 'Dear Neighbour' card  or the Noise App above. 

If the behaviour is persistent, you do not feel safe approaching your neighbour, or you have tried and the situation has not improved, please complete our diary sheets with dates and times of the incidents, which can be found above.

If talking does not help you should contact the local Environmental Health Officer, which is run by your local authority.  Should the local authority take enforcement action, we can use this as evidence against the dog owner if appropriate.