Warwick, RI Noise Ordinances: Barking Dogs (2026)

Sec. " The word "habitual" is the operative threshold: a single bark or occasional noise does not trigger this section, but a pattern that disturbs or annoys a person or the neighborhood does. Sec. 4-14(b) extends nuisance status to animals that trespass and damage property, and sets the enforcement mechanism for both noise and property-damage nuisances: when one or more persons with separate residences, or persons regularly employed in the neighborhood, affirm in writing that an animal is a habitual nuisance by reason of trespassing, howling, barking, other noise, property damage, viciousness, or other undue annoyance, the animal control officer investigates and, if the officer finds the nuisance exists, serves notice on the owner or custodian that it must be abated.

The section also authorizes impoundment of an animal found to be trespassing and destroying property. A cross-reference in the code ties this section to the city's general noise chapter at Sec. 40-13, meaning a barking complaint can also be pursued under the citywide noise ordinance rather than solely under the animal nuisance provision. General chapter penalties for a violation of the abatement order or Sec. 4-14 fall under Sec. L. 1956, § 4-13-1 with each day of continued violation a separate offense.