We investigate environmental and public health issues that may unreasonably affect neighbouring properties or the wider community.
Common examples include excessive noise, smoke, odours, pests, dumping and unhealthy living conditions.
Every complaint is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Where sufficient evidence exists that a nuisance is occurring under relevant legislation, we may take regulatory action.
We cannot investigate private disputes between neighbours, antisocial behaviour or other civil matters. These issues may need to be addressed through Tasmania Police, mediation services or independent legal advice.
Before you lodge a report
Step 1: Talk to your neighbour first
Where appropriate, we encourage you to speak with your neighbour before contacting us.
In many cases, people are unaware that they are causing a disturbance. A friendly and respectful conversation can often resolve the issue quickly and help maintain positive neighbour relationships.
If you have been unable to resolve the issue directly, you can lodge a request with us for further advice and assistance.
Step 2: Report the issue and provide information
To help us assess your request, please provide:
- The address where the issue is occurring
- Your name and contact details
- The type of nuisance being reported
- How the issue is affecting you or your property
- How long the issue has been occurring
- How often it occurs, including times and duration
- Any supporting evidence, such as photographs, videos or nuisance diaries
Please note that anonymous complaints may limit our ability to investigate the matter or provide updates.
Step 3: Investigation process
Once we receive your request, we will:
1. Assess the complaint
We review the information provided to determine whether the matter falls within our responsibilities and may meet the legal definition of a nuisance.
2. Gather information
We may contact you for additional information, evidence or clarification.
3. Contact the responsible person
Where appropriate, we will contact the person responsible for the reported issue and encourage them to resolve or minimise the impact.
4. Undertake further investigation
If the issue continues, we may gather additional evidence through inspections, officer observations, statutory declarations or specialist assessments, such as acoustic testing for noise complaints.
5. Make a determination
We assess all available evidence to determine whether a nuisance exists under relevant legislation.
6. Take action where required
Where sufficient evidence is available, we may take appropriate regulatory action.
Please note: If enforcement action proceeds through the courts, complainants may be required to provide evidence or appear as a witness.
When we can’t take action
We may not be able to take further action if:
- There is insufficient evidence to support the complaint; or
- The issue does not meet the legal definition of a nuisance under relevant legislation.
In these circumstances, the matter may be considered a private dispute and you may wish to seek independent legal advice about other options available to you.
Will my details remain confidential?
We will generally not disclose your personal details during an investigation unless required by law or court proceedings.
In some circumstances, if a matter progresses to formal enforcement or court action, you may be required to provide evidence as part of the process.
What we do not regulate
- Bees and wasps – see Compulsory Beekeeper Registration
- Odour and air pollution – see Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).
- Light pollution – see Roads-Lighting or TasNetworks
- Sewerage – visit TasWater