San Antonio, TX Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)
Barking dog rules in San Antonio, TX, 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
- Governing section
- SAMC § 5-150(2)
- Nuisance threshold
- Two events per 24 hours
- Duration
- 20 minutes continuous
- Distance
- 100 yards or through wall
- Enforcement
- Animal Care Services citation
Summary
San Antonio makes barking a public nuisance under Chapter 5. An animal noise nuisance means two recorded events in 24 hours where a dog is heard continuously for 20 minutes at 100 yards or through a wall.
The owner or keeper shall not allow animals being held on their property to create a noise disturbance in such a manner, to annoy, distress or disturb within the vicinity of hearing thereof. For the purpose of this chapter, an animal noise nuisance shall be defined as a minimum of two (2) separate recorded noise events over a period of twenty-four (24) hours where the animal can be heard continuously for a twenty (20) minute period of time one hundred (100) yards away, or behind the wall of a livable structure
Full Breakdown
Section 5-150(2) bars owners from letting animals create a noise disturbance that annoys or distresses neighbors. The code sets a hard threshold: two separate recorded noise events over a 24-hour period, with the animal audible continuously for 20 minutes from 100 yards away or behind the wall of a livable structure. Animal Care Services investigates complaints and can cite the owner. Under Section 5-152, creating an animal nuisance is a misdemeanor, and Section 5-153 lets officers impound a dog to abate the nuisance.
Violations & Fines
Creating an animal nuisance is a misdemeanor under Section 5-152, prosecuted in municipal court with a fine up to $500. Officers may also impound the dog under Section 5-153 to abate the noise.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many barking complaints trigger a citation?
Who enforces barking complaints in San Antonio?
Can my dog be impounded for barking?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Antonio
Texas rules heatmap·Compare San Antonio to another location·View the Texas noise ordinances overview
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Barking Dogs in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Bexar County handle barking dogs.