BC Tribunal Awards Neighbor $1,192 Over Shared Alley Basketball Hoop Dispute

Two neighbouring residential property owners in British Columbia have been awarded $1,192.34 following a civil dispute over a basketball hoop installed in a shared back alley, VanPeople.com reported.

A Backyard Dispute Escalates Over a Shared Alleyway

The dispute began when the structure was installed in May 2022 in the common lane behind the properties to allow children to play basketball.

A neighbouring owner subsequently lodged a complaint, arguing that the equipment caused pathway obstruction, safety hazards, and noise disturbance, while potentially threatening private property.

Complainant Seeks Damages to Remove Basketball Hoop

The complainant sought $5,000 in damages and an order to remove the basketball hoop from the shared space, pointing claims toward both the neighbour and the strata management committee.

The strata defended the equipment, stating that multi-family residential communities naturally generate daytime living sounds, that the base of the hoop is heavy enough to prevent tipping, and that it remains easily movable during emergencies. Another neighbour confirmed no personal objections had been raised during community discussions.

The case proceeded to the Civil Resolution Tribunal after more than two years of unresolved complaints. In a ruling issued following an application filed on June 13, 2024, the tribunal dismissed the $5,000 monetary claim regarding unreasonable noise and property damage.

Tribunal members reviewed submitted photographs showing children playing at 8:18 p.m. and 9:27 p.m., along with two doorbell camera video clips capturing bouncing sounds and children playing. The evidence failed to demonstrate that the audio reached an unreasonable level beyond what a reasonable person in a multi-family complex should expect.

Strata Failures Lead to Financial Penalties

Despite dismissing the noise and damage claims, the tribunal found in favour of the applicant on two separate points.

The adjudicator ruled that the basketball hoop caused a clear pathway obstruction and that the strata management failed to enforce building bylaws requiring adult supervision for children playing in common areas. This failure constituted significant unfairness toward the complaining owner.

Final Order Grants Compensation Without Removal

The final tribunal order granted $1,000 for the significant unfairness damages, alongside supplementary compensation covering tribunal procedural costs, totalling $1,192.34. The tribunal did not order the removal of the basketball hoop.

Disclaimer: The insights provided in this article are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or sports betting recommendations.