Barking dog rules in DeSoto, 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.
DeSoto Code of Ordinances Chapter 14 (Animals) prohibits any dog from barking, howling, or whining continuously for 15 minutes or intermittently for 30 minutes in a way that disturbs neighbors. Violations are a Class C misdemeanor.
Under Section 14-32 of the DeSoto Code, the owner or keeper of a dog commits an offense if the animal creates an unreasonable disturbance through continuous barking for 15 minutes or intermittent barking for 30 minutes. Enforcement requires a sworn complaint from a neighbor and is handled by DeSoto Animal Services, which operates out of the Tri-City Animal Shelter. First-offense warnings are typical; subsequent violations carry escalating fines. Chronic nuisance dogs can be declared a 'public nuisance' under Section 14-35, potentially leading to mandatory containment or removal.
Warning letter first offense; $100-$500 per day thereafter; nuisance-animal declaration possible for chronic offenders.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Dallas County.
See how other cities in Dallas County handle barking dogs.
See how DeSoto's barking dogs rules stack up against other locations.
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