Barking dog rules in Chico, CA — also called nuisance dog, dog noise, or excessive barking ordinances — define when a barking dog becomes a code violation and how complaints are handled.
Barking dogs are regulated under Title 7 (not Title 6) of the Chico Municipal Code. CMC §7.08.120 declares howling, barking, or unusual noises that disturb a neighborhood a public nuisance. Chico Animal Services uses a structured process: a 7-day Notice of Violation, then a complainant-completed barking log, then an administrative citation ($75 / $150 / $300).
CMC §7.08.120 ('Nuisances Designated') makes it unlawful to create a disturbance in a neighborhood by howling, barking, or making unusual noises. However, barking triggered by a service person, visitor, intruder, or someone teasing/provoking the dog does NOT qualify as nuisance barking. Chico Animal Services enforces a stepped procedure: (1) the officer's initial visit produces a Notice of Violation giving the owner 7 days to address the issue; (2) if barking continues, the complainant must complete a barking-dog log documenting times and durations; (3) Animal Services reviews the log and, if it shows nuisance barking, issues an administrative citation. The §9.38.052 'general noise regulation' (no sound-level meter required) is a parallel enforcement path for officers responding directly to a disturbance. Animal Control contact: (530) 897-4960.
Title 7 administrative fines: $75 first offense, $150 second offense, $300 third offense. Each day a violation continues counts as a separate offense.
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