Yolo County, CA Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)
Barking dog rules in Yolo County, 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
- Code section
- Yolo County Code Sec. 6-1.403
- Standard
- Habitual loud noise = public nuisance
- Cats exempted
- Yes, domestic cats excluded
- Reporting requirement
- Complaint form + Barking Noise Log
- Witness required
- Yes, if citation issued
- Animal Services phone
- (530) 668-5287
- animalcomplaint@yolocounty.org
Summary
Yolo County Code section 6-1.403 (Title 6, Animal Control) makes it unlawful for an owner to permit any animal except a domestic cat to 'habitually make a loud noise' or otherwise constitute a public nuisance. Enforcement is by Yolo County Animal Services through a written-log complaint process leading to citation and a court appearance.
No owner shall permit his animal, except a domestic cat, habitually to make a loud noise or act in such a manner as to constitute a public nuisance.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-21: Supplement 2026 S-21 includes: Local legislation current through Ord. 1584, effective June 25, 2026).
Full Breakdown
403 Noise, adopted in Ordinance 703 effective May 22, 1974. ' Enforcement is administered by Yolo County Animal Services at 2640 E Gibson Road, Woodland (a Yolo County Department of Community Services facility serving Woodland, Davis, West Sacramento, Winters, UC Davis, and all unincorporated areas including Esparto, Knights Landing, Madison, Clarksburg, and the Capay Valley). ' The Sheriff's Office may also enforce California Penal Code section 415 for nighttime disturbances tied to an animal.
Violations & Fines
Violation of section 6-1.403 is an infraction or misdemeanor under Yolo County Code Title 6. Typical enforcement starts with a written warning to the owner, escalates to administrative citation, and can result in court-ordered abatement, fines, and (for severe or repeated cases) a 'nuisance dog' determination that may require muzzling, indoor confinement, or removal. Penal Code section 415 violations are punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or $400.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I report a barking dog in unincorporated Yolo County?
How long does a dog have to bark before it is a violation?
Does the rule apply to cats or to farm animals?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Yolo County
California rules heatmap·Compare Yolo County to another location·View the California noise ordinances overview
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