Neenah, WI Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)
Barking dog rules in Neenah, WI, 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
- Standard
- Unreasonably loud and raucous
- Liable party
- Owner, controller, or caretaker
- Exempt
- Licensed kennels, shelters, vets
- First offense
- $10-$500 forfeiture
Summary
Neenah bans unreasonably loud, raucous noise made by an animal or bird, holding the person who owns, controls, or otherwise cares for it responsible, with an exemption for licensed shelters, kennels, veterinary hospitals, and pet shops.
(8)Animals and birds. Unreasonably loud and raucous noise emitted by an animal or bird for which a person is responsible. A person is responsible for an animal if the person owns, controls or otherwise cares for the animal or bird. Sounds made by animals or birds in animal shelters, kennels, veterinary hospitals, pet shops or pet kennels, licensed under and in compliance with licensing and permitting provisions set forth in this Code are exempt from this subsection.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 44).
Full Breakdown
City of Neenah Municipal Code § 11-146(8) declares it a per se noise violation for a person responsible for an animal or bird, meaning anyone who owns, controls, or otherwise cares for it, to let it make unreasonably loud and raucous noise. Sounds made by animals or birds housed in animal shelters, kennels, veterinary hospitals, pet shops, or pet kennels that are licensed and in compliance with the City's licensing and permitting rules are exempt from this subsection. The provision applies citywide to any responsible party, not just dog owners, and was adopted by Ord. No. 2019-14, §§ 3, 8 (6-19-2019).
Violations & Fines
First offense: forfeiture of $10 to $500 plus prosecution costs. Repeat violations: $25 to $1,000 plus costs, under the general penalty at § 1-20.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my neighbor report my dog for barking in Neenah?
Are kennels or vet clinics exempt from the barking-noise rule?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Neenah
Compare Neenah to another location·View the Wisconsin noise ordinances overview
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