Frequently Asked Questions

• What do I do if a neighbor's pet is a public nuisance?

  It is a violation of the Township of Hampton law for pet owners who fail to exercise proper care and control of their animals to prevent them from becoming a public nuisance. This includes excessive, continuous or untimely barking, attacking people or domestic animals, chasing vehicles, and trespassing or damaging private property.

  The following action for such cases is suggested: 1. Talk to the owners of the animal. They may not realize the animal is creating a problem. 2. If Step 1 is unsuccessful and you know the owners' names and address, send a certified letter to them (return receipt requested) outlining the problem. 3. If all else fails, swear out a complaint and take the owner to court. Fines will be between $75.00 and $300 per incident plus court costs.

  The Township of Hampton Police Department investigates such complaints; however, if the animal control officers contracted through Hampton Township or the police officer do not witness these violations, they cannot act upon them. As an alternative, citizens can go to the District Magistrate, Regis Welsh to swear out a complaint and take the offenders to court.

  For further information, call the Hampton Police Department at (412)-486-0400.

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