Minneapolis, MN Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)
Barking dog rules in Minneapolis, MN, 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
- Daytime threshold
- 15 minutes, 7 a.m.–10 p.m.
- Nighttime threshold
- 10 minutes, 10 p.m.–7 a.m.
- Second violation
- Doubles the administrative fine
- Third violation
- Animal may be ordered removed
Summary
Minneapolis treats habitual animal noise as a nuisance: barking, howling, or similar noise audible across a property line for 15+ minutes by day or 10+ minutes overnight draws an administrative fine under City Code § 64.40.
Allowing an animal to create howling, barking, whining, meowing, squawking, or other such noises which are plainly audible across a property boundary or through partitions common to two (2) residences within a building and that take place continuously or repeatedly during a period of at least fifteen (15) minutes in duration between 7:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. or during a period of at least ten (10) minutes in duration between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. shall be prohibited and subject to an administrative fine or other appropriate or authorized legal enforcement. The second subsequent violation of this section shall double the administrative fine and the third violation may result in an order for the animals to be removed from the City of Minneapolis. (Ord. No. 2016-009, § 1, 2-12-16)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 72).
Full Breakdown
City Code § 64.40 bars keeping any animal that frequently and habitually disturbs the peace. It specifically prohibits howling, barking, whining, meowing, squawking, or similar noise that is plainly audible across a property boundary or through shared walls between two residences and continues continuously or repeatedly for at least 15 minutes between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., or at least 10 minutes between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. A duly authorized animal hospital or clinic is exempt.
Violations & Fines
First violation draws an administrative fine. A second violation doubles that fine, and a third violation may result in a city order for the animal to be removed from Minneapolis.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a dog have to bark before it violates Minneapolis's noise rule?
What happens after a barking-dog complaint is confirmed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Minneapolis
Compare Minneapolis to another location·View the Minnesota noise ordinances overview
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