Scranton, PA Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)

Two overlapping local provisions reach barking in Scranton. The noise provision is at Section 317-7(A)(15): it is a noise disturbance to own, possess, harbor or control any animal or bird that 'barks, bays, cries, squawks or makes any other noise continuously and/or incessantly for a period of ten minutes or makes such noise intermittently for 1/2 hour or more to the disturbance of any person any time of the day or night,' regardless of whether the animal is on private property. The provision contains a built-in defense: it does not apply where the noise is in response to a trespass, threatened trespass, or other legitimate provocation. Chapter 169 (Animals) of the City Code (eCode360 11604508) supplies the parallel offense - it is unlawful to keep any dog, cat or other animal which by frequent howling, barking, baying, yelping or screeching disturbs the peace of the neighborhood or constitutes a health hazard. Chapter 169 enforcement uses a graduated approach: a written warning on the first apprehension, and a citation thereafter. State-law backstop: the Pennsylvania Dog Law (3 P.S. Section 459-101 et seq.) requires dog licensing through the Lackawanna County Treasurer (annual or lifetime; rabies vaccination required for all dogs three months of age or older). 18 Pa.C.S. Section 5511 (cruelty to animals - now relocated to Title 18 Chapter 55) and the unreasonable-noise prong of 18 Pa.C.S. Section 5503(a)(2) (disorderly conduct) supply additional handles for prosecutors. Section 317-7(C) - the two-resident prima facie rule - applies to barking complaints filed under Chapter 317.