Can I report excessive barking from a Modesto neighbor’s dog? Take these steps
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Nosy Neighbors in Modesto
A multi-part series by The Modesto Bee
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Picture this: After a long day, you finally settle into bed — and just as you’re drifting off, a dog starts barking uncontrollably in the middle of the night.
However, it’s not your dog.
A Modesto Bee reader recently asked: Are there rules about excessive dog barking in Modesto?
When a neighbor’s barking dog starts disrupting your sleep or quality of life, what can you do?
Here’s what city officials said:
What is considered a nuisance in California?
According to California’s Civil Code, a nuisance is generally anything that unreasonably interferes with someone’s ability to use or enjoy their property.
This law applies statewide, including Modesto.
Is a barking dog considered a nuisance?
City officials said excessive dog barking can qualify as a nuisance if it becomes disruptive.
According to Modesto’s Municipal Code, “loud and raucous noise” is any sound that, due to its volume, duration or nature, disturbs the comfort of another person.
It’s unlawful for anyone “owning, possessing, controlling, harboring or keeping any dog or puppy” to cause or allow the animal to discomfort people “by howling, yelping, whining, whimpering, growling (or) barking,” city code says.
Can I report my neighbor for their dog barking uncontrollably?
Modesto residents can report excessive barking by calling the non-emergency line for Stanislaus Regional 911 at 209-552-2470.
You can also file a complaint through the Go Modesto App, which allows residents to alert the city Code Enforcement Unit about city issues and other municipal violations.
“All submissions remain anonymous,” city officials said.
What happens after a complaint is filed?
According to the Modesto Municipal Code, a dog can be impounded for making a “loud and raucous noise.”
However, city officials said, a warning letter will first be delivered to the dog owner, giving them about two weeks to fix the issue.
“During this period, we encourage the reporting party to document the noise violation with audio recordings,” city officials said. “If the noise violation does not subside, we complete a citizen’s arrest.”
What penalties can dog owners face?
If the issue isn’t resolved, city officials said, dog owners can face fines that will increase over time:
- First violation: $100
- Second violation within 12 months: $250
- Third violation within 12 months: $500
What questions do you have about living alongside Modesto neighbors?
Living alongside neighbors can be a challenge.
Whether your questions are about reporting violations or understanding what’s allowed, The Bee is here to help you navigate neighborhood issues.
You can submit questions directly to our reporters by emailing The Bee’s Angela Rodriguez at arodriguez@modbee.com, writing to our service journalism desk at servicejournalists@modbee.com, or filling out the form below.
You may be contacted by a Modesto Bee reporter.
