A vegan has gone viral after sending a threatening note to their neighbours over a barbecue.

Viral

‘Sick And Upset’ Vegan Karen Sends ‘Last Warning’ Letter To Neighbor Over BBQ

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Updated: 11:17 09 January 2026

Published: 13:00 21 May 2024


A vegan has gone viral after sending a ‘last warning’ note to their neighbor over a backyard barbecue. 

In an unexpected twist of suburban drama, a local vegan has taken matters into their own hands after becoming frustrated by the persistent aroma of grilled meat.

The individual, whose patience had reached its limits, sent a chilling note to their neighbors and it’s now sparked a heated debate on social media.

Veganism is the practice of abstaining from the use of animal products, particularly in diet.

Disputes involving food choices and lifestyle differences have become increasingly common online, with veganism in particular often sparking heated debate.

While many people view dietary choices as a personal matter, others argue that strong smells, noise, or behavior can become flashpoints when neighbors live in close proximity.

Barbecue
The vegan sent a ‘last warning’ note to their neighbor over a backyard barbecue. Credit: Adobe Stock

‘Last warning’ note sparks debate

After hearing about the ‘last warning’ note on social media, one person said: “This is unbelievable, they want to tell you how to live in your own home.”

Another added: “Would have a BBQ every weekend if I got this note! For all the times a year, we get a nice day to enjoy and you keep your windows closed. Sorted.”

“Glad that I don’t live next to her complaining about a BBQ. Hope that the couple has another BBQ soon, let her put it on social media and she will be upset by all the negative comments,” wrote a third. “Why is it that so many people want to complain about everything.”

However, others have been more understanding of the vegan.

Last warning vegan letter
The letter has sparked a heated debate on social media. Credit: Hey Perth via Facebook

Siding with them, one person wrote: “I was a vegetarian for 24 years and it did make me sick when I smelled meat being fried. I think they should talk together and find a compromise.”

In agreement, a second said: “I’m torn. On one hand, we have to live together side by side and what we do certainly affects the people around us. Closing a window is a very easy accommodation.

“But on the other hand, people should be free to enjoy their space how they want. I hate smelling my neighbour’s m***juana and hearing their dogs bark but it’s their property so I close my windows.”

Letter that started it all

The drama started with a note signed by ‘Sarah, Wayne and kids,’ reading: “Hello neighbour, could you please shut your side window when cooking please?

”My family are vegan (we eat only plant-based foods) and the smell of the meat you cook makes us feel sick and upset.

”We would appreciate your understanding.”

At first glance, the initial note struck a relatively polite tone, framing the request as a plea for understanding rather than a demand.

The vegan emphasized their family’s plant-based diet and asked for a simple adjustment rather than an outright ban on barbecues.

Situation escalates

Last warning vegan letter
The vegan told the neighbor they were ‘taking the mickey’ and being ‘downright rude.’ Credit: Hey Perth via Facebook

When this letter was ignored, the vegan took things further by sending a ‘final warning’ letter – accusing their neighbor of ‘taking the mickey’ and being ‘downright rude.’

The person behind the note also claims their neighbor had intentionally sought to cause distress, stating (via the Mirror): “I raised my concerns of the smell of meat making my family feel sick and upset and you go and have a barbecue on Saturday night inviting lots of people, and you knew this would affect me and my family.”

After the vegan found out their letters had circulated online, they said: “My friend Tina told me you took my letter to social media and it backfired on you which is ‘just desserts.'”

It concluded: “Please no more BBQs and please keep that window closed when cooking otherwise I’m going to report you and go to social media too.”

If you’re a vegan and your neighbor is cooking meat in their garden, what can you do?

The US does not generally recognize veganism as a protected class under federal law, which protects characteristics such as race and religion.

Usually, it is treated as a personal lifestyle choice, not a legally protected belief.

Under US law, homeowners and tenants have broad rights to use their property for activities like cooking food outdoors.

It’s generally lawful as long as it complies with local fire and safety codes, does not violate homeowners association (HOA) rules, and is not prohibited by local decree.

The only legal avenue that could be pursued is the private nuisance law. This is when a person unreasonably interferes with another person’s use and enjoyment of their property.

However, food odors alone rarely qualify as a nuisance.

In most cases, the best way to address the issue is through neighborly communication, rather than the legal system.

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