Peoria, IL Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)

Sec. 4-22(a) makes it unlawful to own, possess or harbor a nuisance animal, defining that status to include an animal that causes a disturbance by excessive barking, caterwauling or other noisemaking under subsection (a)(3). Complaints alleging that specific violation are routed to a hearing officer under Sec. 4-22(c), who may recommend a fine of not less than $50 and not more than $300 pursuant to Sec. 4-28, recommend a settlement agreement between the parties, refer the matter for prosecution in ordinance violation court, or authorize corporation counsel to collect an assessed fine.

Sec. 4-22(d) requires the hearing officer to hold a fair and impartial hearing within 60 days of receiving the complaint, with written notice of the time, date and place, plus a copy of the complaint, delivered by certified mail or hand-delivery at least seven days beforehand. Both sides can present testimony and cross-examine witnesses, and either party may request a certified shorthand reporter to preserve a transcript for appeal, at the appealing party's expense. The hearing officer isn't bound by strict courtroom evidence rules and can administer oaths and take sworn testimony; a written decision must be mailed to the parties within 15 days of the hearing's conclusion.

Notably, a barking complaint cannot proceed without the complainant's active participation and support, a distinct track from the separate escalating $300/$600/$1,000 penalty structure Sec. 4-22(b) reserves for animals that chase or attack people or other animals under subsection (a)(5).