Upon receipt of a formal written complaint, the following procedures take place:

1. The complaint is forwarded to the Bylaw department
   (please note we do not accept anonymous complaints)
2. A complaint file is opened to start an investigation
3. Bylaw Enforcement reviews the complaint file to assess if a violation exists
4. The property is inspected to verify the validity of the complaint
5. The property owner is contacted if applicable
6. Extra investigation considerations include:
   • offense type
   • location
   • history (number of calls, enforcement action)
   • frequency of calls (day, date and time)
7. If it is determined there is a violation, the officer may issue:
   • A warning notice with directions to remedy the problem within a specified time frame or
   • An immediate fine, when appropriate
8. Initiation of legal action may occur if the situation remains unresolved
9. If a violation does not exist, the officer will inform the complainant and close the file.

If the CRD takes legal action or cleaning up a property, cost recovery methods are also initiated. Whenever possible the CRD will recover its bylaw enforcement costs.

When a complaint is received by the Bylaw Enforcement Officer, it may take some time to investigate, depending on his/her workload. Please note that every complaint is investigated. Wherever possible, the officer works with the property owners to resolve the issue and is monitoring for compliance.

Resources do not allow for an Officer to inform a complainant of every development in an investigation. If you require an update or additional information, please contact the Bylaw Enforcement department.

The CRD does not have bylaws addressing animals at large (being off the owner's property), pet licensing, or cruelty to animals. For information or assistance, please contact the S.P.C.A.

For issues with dangerous dogs, there is provincial “Dangerous Dog” legislation that the RCMP can enforce in certain cases. It is suggested that you contact the RCMP if you believe a dog could be dangerous.

The CRD has a barking dog section in its noise bylaw. However, the bylaw is only in effect in certain electoral areas (area A, B, D, E, F, G, H, L). Please contact the Bylaw Enforcement Department for further information.

Once you have been in touch with the Bylaw Enforcement Department, you may be asked to fill out a barking dog incident log.