Mount Prospect, IL Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)

Two subsections of Section 20.204 address animal noise. Subsection J makes it unlawful to "harbor or keep any animal which disturbs the peace by loud noises at any time of the day or night." The rule applies to any animal, not only dogs, and it applies at all hours. The standard is whether the animal disturbs the peace by loud noises, and the person covered is anyone who harbors or keeps the animal. Section 20.101 defines the owner of an animal broadly for the chapter: a person who has a right of property in the animal, keeps or harbors it, has it in his or her care, acts as its custodian, or knowingly permits an animal (including wildlife) to remain on or about any premises occupied by him or her.

Subsection K covers behavior aimed at people and property. It bars allowing an animal at any time to molest persons or vehicles by chasing, barking or biting, to attack other animals, or to damage property other than the owner's. The code states that this is an absolute liability prohibition and that no proof of intent to permit or allow such activity is required.

The general nuisance article points back to the same rule. Section 23.1403 H makes it a nuisance to produce or permit any offensive noise which disturbs the peace or quiet of the neighborhood or of any person residing in the vicinity of the premises, and its list of related restrictions cites Section 20.204 J by number. Section 23.1403 C separately makes it a nuisance to own, keep or use any yard, pen, place or premises in which animals are confined or kept so as to be offensive to those residing in the vicinity or cause annoyance to others.

Enforcement runs through Chapter 20. The animal control official is the chief of police and any designated agent of the chief. Section 20.601 lets the Village issue a citation delivered personally, to a household member ten (10) years or older, or affixed to the main entrance of the building where the violation occurred. Section 20.603 sets the fines and treats each day of a continuing violation as a separate offense.