Travis County, TX Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)
Barking dog rules in Travis County, 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
- County Ordinance
- None specific
- State Law
- TX H&SC 822.041 nuisance
- Reporting
- 311 Austin Animal Services
- Fine
- Up to $500 Class C
Summary
Travis County relies on state law for barking dog complaints. TX Health & Safety Code 822.041 defines public nuisance dogs. Travis County Animal Control (via Austin Animal Center partnership) investigates chronic barking complaints in unincorporated areas.
Sec. 42.01. DISORDERLY CONDUCT. (a) A person commits an offense if he intentionally or knowingly:(5) makes unreasonable noise in a public place other than a sport shooting range, as defined by Section 250.001, Local Government Code, or in or near a private residence that he has no right to occupy;(c) For purposes of this section:(1) an act is deemed to occur in a public place or near a private residence if it produces its offensive or proscribed consequences in the public place or near a private residence; and(2) a noise is presumed to be unreasonable if the noise exceeds a decibel level of 85 after the person making the noise receives notice from a magistrate or peace officer that the noise is a public nuisance.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
No standalone Travis County barking ordinance for unincorporated areas. Chronic barking may qualify as a public nuisance under state law and can be pursued through justice court. Austin Animal Services contracts with Travis County for animal complaint response in unincorporated areas: 311 or 512-978-0500.
Violations & Fines
JP court civil nuisance finding may require owner to abate. Class C misdemeanor possible for public nuisance animals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the rules about barking dogs in Travis County?
How do I file a noise complaint about a barking dog in Travis County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Travis County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Travis County to another location·View the Texas noise ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.