Chico, CA Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)
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.
Key Facts
- Barking designated as
- public nuisance
- Liable party
- the dog's owner
- Abatement authority
- § 7.08.140
- Penalty amount
- set by council resolution
Summary
Chico's dog nuisance ordinance makes it unlawful for a dog to disturb a neighborhood by howling, barking, or making unusual noises, with the owner liable for the violation.
Without limitation as to the general provisions of Section 7.08.120, the following specific acts and conditions committed by a dog are hereby declared to be unlawful and to constitute a public nuisance, and the owner of a dog committing any of the following shall be subject to the penalties provided by this title: ... E. Creating a disturbance in a neighborhood by howling, barking or making unusual noises;
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Supplement contains local legislation current through: Codified Resolution No. 53-26, adopted 7-14-26 and Ordinance No. 2622, adopted 6-2-26).
Full Breakdown
Chico Municipal Code § 7.08.130 lists specific acts by a dog that count as a public nuisance under Title 7. Subsection (E) designates 'creating a disturbance in a neighborhood by howling, barking or making unusual noises' as one of them, alongside biting, property damage, and running loose on school grounds. The dog's owner, not just whoever is present at the time, is subject to the penalties in this title. Animal Services can pursue abatement under § 7.08.140, and repeated nuisance conduct can lead to impoundment.
Violations & Fines
Infraction; civil fine set by City Council resolution under Chapter 1.15; abatement action against the dog's owner is also authorized.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal for my neighbor's dog to bark constantly in Chico?
What can I do about a chronically barking dog in Chico?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chico
California rules heatmap·Compare Chico to another location·View the California noise ordinances overview
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