How can I report my Modesto neighbor for not picking up pet poop? What to do
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Nosy Neighbors in Modesto
A multi-part series by The Modesto Bee
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The weather is heating up in Modesto — which means more outdoor brunches, trips to the dog park and evening walks around the neighborhood.
With more pets out and about, the issue of owners not cleaning up after their animals tends to pop up.
A Modesto Bee reader recently asked: What can I do if my neighbor isn’t picking up after their pet?
Here’s what Modesto rules say — and how to report a violation:
What are Modesto’s rules about pet waste?
According to Modesto Municipal Code, pet owners cannot allow pet waste to pile up on their property.
Waste such as dog poop and kitty litter must be cleaned up, bagged and properly removed within seven days.
The city also requires residents to prevent odors from pet urine or feces from creating a nuisance for neighbors.
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.
Can you leave dog poop in parks or on sidewalks?
According to Modesto Municipal Code, pet owners are not allowed to leave animal waste on public property.
“This applies to public parks, sidewalks, (the) roadway of any public street or on any property not owned or possessed by the owner or person being in charge, care, control or custody of the animal,” city officials previously told The Modesto Bee.
What are the penalties for not cleaning up after a pet?
Failing to clean up after a pet is considered a violation of Modesto’s Municipal Code.
You can get a $50 fine for the first offense. Fines can increase to $200 for the second and following offenses.
However, the rules do not apply to visually impaired residents using guide dogs, according to city code.
Can I report my Modesto neighbor for not picking up pet poop?
Modesto residents can report a neighbor for not picking up pet waste, as it is considered a public nuisance.
If you see someone leaving pet waste in a park, on a sidewalk or in another public area, call the city of Modesto’s Solid Waste Division at 209-577-5494,
Residents can also submit an online report through the Go Modesto App.
“All submissions remain anonymous,” city officials said.
If the issue involves waste left on private property or in a shared common area, residents can file a complaint with Stanislaus Animal Services — which handles animal nuisance issues in Modesto — by calling 209-558-7387 or submitting a complaint online.
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.
