Barking Dogs: Phoenix vs Tempe
How do barking dogs rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Phoenix and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix prohibits keeping any animal that causes frequent or long-continued noise disturbing neighbors under Sec. 23-14(d). Complaints filed through Phoenix Police non-emergency line or Neighborhood Services.
View full Phoenix rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe addresses barking dogs under both the noise ordinance (Chapter 20) and animal control regulations. Dogs that bark persistently and disturb neighbors can be declared a nuisance. Maricopa County Animal Care and Control handles enforcement.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Sec. 23-14(d) | - |
| Standard | Frequent/long-continued noise | Audible at 50 feet or inside neighbor's home |
| Complaints | Phoenix PD non-emergency | - |
| Penalty | Class 1 misdemeanor | - |
| Code | - | Tempe City Code Ch. 20 / MCACC |
| Enforcement | - | Maricopa County Animal Care and Control |
| Process | - | Written notice, then citations |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
What are the rules about barking dogs in Phoenix?
Phoenix prohibits keeping any animal that causes frequent or long-continued noise disturbing neighbors under Sec. 23-14(d). Complaints filed through Phoenix Police non-emergency line or Neighborhood Services.
How do I file a noise complaint about a barking dog in Phoenix?
Code Section: Sec. 23-14(d). Standard: Frequent/long-continued noise. Complaints: Phoenix PD non-emergency. Penalty: Class 1 misdemeanor.
Tempe FAQ
How do I report a barking dog in Tempe?
Contact Maricopa County Animal Care and Control (MCACC) to file a complaint. You can also report noise disturbances to Tempe Police.
How many complaints are needed for enforcement?
While a single complaint can trigger a response, documented patterns from multiple neighbors strengthen the case for citations or impoundment.
Compare other topics
See how Phoenix and Tempe compare on other ordinance categories.
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