Marion County, OR Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)
Barking dog rules in Marion County, OR, 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
- Salem threshold
- Barking 10 minutes or longer
- Salem citation
- SRC 93.020(b)
- County standard
- Plainly audible / dB limits
- County night hours
- 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
- Also handled by
- Marion County Dog Control
Summary
Salem sets a clear standard: it is unlawful to keep any dog that barks, cries or makes other sound on a frequent, repetitive or continuous basis for ten minutes or longer. Marion County treats persistent barking as a noise disturbance under MCC 8.45.
It shall be unlawful to keep, or to permit the keeping of, any dog or dogs that create any bark, cry, or other sound on a frequent, repetitive or continuous basis for ten minutes or longer.
Full Breakdown
Salem Revised Code 93.020(b) is one of Oregon's most specific barking rules, defining a nuisance dog by a measurable ten-minute threshold rather than a subjective standard. In unincorporated Marion County, continuous barking that is plainly audible inside a neighbor's dwelling between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m., or that exceeds the applicable decibel limits, is a noise disturbance under MCC 8.45.050 and 8.45.060. Barking complaints in the county may also be handled through Marion County Dog Control under the animal-control code, separate from the noise ordinance.
Violations & Fines
Salem barking violations are infractions (misdemeanor on repeat within six months). County noise violations are Class A violations under ORS Chapter 153.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a dog bark before it's illegal in Salem?
Is there a specific bark-time limit in the county?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Marion County
Compare Marion County to another location·View the Oregon noise ordinances overview
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