Scranton, PA Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)

§ 317-7A(15) of the City Code declares it 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 10 minutes, or intermittently for half an hour or more, to the disturbance of any person at any time of day or night. The section applies regardless of whether the animal is on private property, so an owner cannot rely on keeping a dog indoors or fenced in a backyard to avoid a citation if the noise still reaches and disturbs a neighbor.

The ordinance carves out one defense: it does not apply if, at the time the animal made the noise, a person was trespassing or threatening to trespass on the property where the animal was kept, or otherwise teased or provoked the animal for any legitimate cause. Enforcement runs through the rest of Chapter 317: under § 317-10, the Bureau of Police can issue a citation immediately or first order the owner to abate the noise within a period not exceeding 30 days, and § 317-11A sets the penalty for a conviction at a fine of up to $600 per violation or imprisonment up to 30 days, with each day the barking continues counted as a separate offense.

As with other noise complaints under this chapter, § 317-7C makes the disturbance prima facie proven if two or more residents of separate properties agree on the timing and duration of the barking.