Barking dog rules in Surprise, AZ — also called nuisance dog, dog noise, or excessive barking ordinances — define when a barking dog becomes a code violation and how complaints are handled.
Excessive barking dogs in Surprise are addressed through the city's nuisance provisions and Maricopa County animal control regulations. Dogs that bark continuously or excessively, disturbing neighbors, constitute a public nuisance subject to enforcement by Maricopa County Animal Care and Control (MCACC).
Barking dog complaints in Surprise are handled through Maricopa County Animal Care and Control (MCACC) at (602) 506-7387. A dog that barks, howls, or whines continuously or excessively to the disturbance of neighbors is considered a nuisance animal. Complainants typically must document the barking pattern including dates, times, and duration. MCACC may issue a nuisance warning to the dog owner requiring corrective action. If the problem persists, the owner may receive citations. Arizona law allows civil remedies for ongoing noise nuisance. The Surprise Police Department may also respond to barking complaints as noise disturbances, particularly during nighttime hours. Surprise residents in HOA communities may have additional pet noise restrictions through CC&Rs.
Nuisance barking may result in MCACC warnings and citations with escalating fines. Owners who fail to abate the nuisance may face court action. Contact MCACC at (602) 506-7387.
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