Rutherford County, NC Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)

Article VII, Section 1(a) defines an animal as creating a nuisance when it, among other things, disturbs the neighborhood by frequent howling, yelping, barking or other noise, and Section 1(b) makes it unlawful for an owner or custodian to permit or maintain that nuisance. Enforcement can start two ways. If an animal control officer personally observes the violation, the owner or custodian gets written notification and 48 hours from that notice to correct the barking. Alternatively, a neighbor can file a written, signed complaint with the Animal Control Services Director, who must cause the situation to be investigated and a written report of the findings made; if the findings show the complaint is justified, the director orders the owner or custodian in writing to abate the nuisance within 48 hours by whatever means may be necessary.

If the owner or custodian is unknown and cannot be identified through reasonable means, the barking dog may be impounded, and if it remains unclaimed after 72 hours, the shelter may offer it for adoption or have it humanely destroyed. Failing or refusing to abate the nuisance once ordered is itself a separate unlawful act under Section 1(d), independent of the underlying barking violation.