This article outlines complaint response procedures for bylaw infractions in Stratford, Charlottetown, and Cornwall, PEI.

Bylaws Vary by Municipality

Each municipality we serve has its own bylaws in place to address local concerns about animal behaviour and ownership responsibilities. These bylaws vary from one community to another.

Among the most common complaints we receive are:

• Failure to pick up after pets (poop-scooping)
• Excessive barking or noise disturbances
• Dogs running at large or off-leash in restricted areas

These are considered bylaw infractions, and Animal Protection Officers are tasked with investigating these complaints and working with pet owners to resolve them.

When It Goes Beyond a Bylaw

While many situations can be resolved through education, verbal warnings, or municipal fines, there are times when an incident points to a deeper concern. Humane-related infractions—such as suspected neglect, cruelty, or unsafe living conditions—are governed by the provincial Animal Welfare Act. If a municipal bylaw concern escalates into something more serious, Animal Protection Officers can initiate an investigation under provincial legislation. This may lead to further action being taken.

A General Guide to the Process

To give the public a better understanding of how these concerns are handled, we’ve created a flowchart outlining the general process of bylaw enforcement. This flowchart offers an overview of how complaints are received, investigated, and resolved. It’s important to note, however, that every case is different. Officers may use discretion and adjust their approach depending on the specific circumstances involved.

Whether it’s a barking dog or a more serious concern, Animal Protection Officers approach each complaint with fairness, professionalism, and a focus on improving life for animals and people in our communities.

What’s Needed to Serve a Summary Offence Ticket?

It’s important to remember that to serve a ticket, evidence is needed. This can take the form of pictures or videos demonstrating the complaint. If submitting picture or video evidence with your complaint, the content should be date/time stamped. 

It’s also important to note that when submitting evidence for the purposes of a Summary Offence Ticket to be served, the complainant may be required to appear in court to prove the validity of the evidence. This means that the complainant may need to appear in court before the accused if they choose to contest the ticket. This can sometimes be challenging when the accused is a friend, neighbour, or is known to the complainant.

To report a bylaw complaint in Stratford, Charlottetown or Cornwall, do so using THIS FORM.