Neighbourhood complaints

Council and other government agencies regulate common activities that can cause neighbourhood conflict.

Please read the information below to determine which organisation has jurisdiction and the process for making a complaint.

You can make a complaint about Council-controlled issues using our online Report a Problem form (use the button below), via the Report a Problem feature in the My Cairns app or by phone to 1300 69 22 47.

Report a problem online

Close up of wood burning in a drum used as an incinerator

Backyard fires (smoke & fumes)

You may not burn-off, or light a fire on your property without a permit from the fire service.

Dust

Cairns Regional Council can prosecute people or businesses for causing excessive dust (or particles) which impact the environment or people.

Graffiti

Graffiti prevention and management is a shared responsibility between Council, Police and government agencies. Find out who to contact to report graffiti vandalism.

Light nuisance

In suburban and residential areas, artificial light can cause an unreasonable nuisance to neighbours and interfere with their normal daily activities.

Litter and dumping

Littering and illegal dumping have significant health, safety, financial and environmental impacts. It is an offence to dump waste on public land, or on private land without the consent of the owner.

Noise

Council and the state government set acceptable noise levels for activities and machinery such as lawn mowing, musical performances, air conditioners and power motors.