Denton, TX Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)
Barking dog rules in Denton, TX, 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
- Code
- Sec. 6-9 (Ch. 6 Animals)
- Complaint Line
- (940) 349-7594
- Filing Radius
- Within 300 ft of nuisance animal
- Nuisance Penalty
- Removal from city within 30 days
- Fine
- Up to $500
Summary
Denton Code Sec. 6-9 prohibits any animal from creating noise that interferes with neighbors' reasonable enjoyment of their property. Residents within 300 feet may file complaints with Denton Animal Services at (940) 349-7594. Repeat offenders face nuisance declaration requiring permanent removal of the animal from city limits within 30 days.
Sec. 42.092. CRUELTY TO NONLIVESTOCK ANIMALS. (a) In this section:(1) "Abandon" includes abandoning an animal in the person's custody without making reasonable arrangements for assumption of custody by another person.(2) "Animal" means a domesticated living creature, including any stray or feral cat or dog, and a wild living creature previously captured. The term does not include an uncaptured wild living creature or a livestock animal.(3) "Cruel manner" includes a manner that causes or permits unjustified or unwarranted pain or suffering.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Section 6-9 of the Denton Code of Ordinances makes it unlawful for any person who owns, harbors, or keeps any animal to allow that animal to create noise (barking, howling, crowing, or similar sounds) that interferes with the reasonable right to use and enjoyment of adjacent property. Residents who live within 300 feet of the offending animal may file a formal complaint with Denton Animal Services. The complaint process involves a witness complaint packet with audio or visual evidence submitted for citation issuance. Officers may issue verbal warnings before formal citation. If an animal is declared a nuisance under Sec. 6-9(4)(a), the owner must permanently remove the animal from within the city limits of Denton within 30 days. Each day past the 30-day deadline constitutes a new separate violation. Denton Animal Services can be reached at (940) 349-7594 or via the online Denton 311 portal.
Violations & Fines
Class C misdemeanor. Fine up to $500. Nuisance declaration: animal must be removed from city within 30 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I report a barking dog in Denton?
What evidence do I need for a barking dog complaint?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Denton
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Denton to another location·View the Texas noise ordinances overview
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Barking Dogs in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Denton County handle barking dogs.