Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup

Connecticut Statewide Rule

Connecticut State Barking Dog Nuisance Statute

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Connecticut (2026)

Key Facts

Statute
CGS Section 22-363
First offense
Infraction
Repeat offense
Class D misdemeanor
Enforcement
Animal control, police
Scope
Statewide application
Last verified: August 20, 2026Source: State of Connecticut

Summary

Connecticut General Statutes Section 22-363 prohibits owning or harboring a dog that creates a nuisance through excessive barking or other disturbance, applying uniformly statewide as a state-level infraction enforceable by animal control officers and police.

Sec. 22-363. Nuisance. No person shall own or harbor a dog or dogs which is or are a nuisance by reason of vicious disposition or excessive barking or other disturbance, or, by such barking or other disturbance, is or are a source of annoyance to any sick person residing in the immediate vicinity. Violation of any provision of this section shall be an infraction for the first offense and a class D misdemeanor for each subsequent offense and the court or judge may make such order concerning the restraint or disposal of such dog or dogs as may be deemed necessary. (1949 Rev., S. 3411; 1953, S. 1849d; 1957, P.A. 75; 1969, P.A. 116; P.A. 76-381, S. 36; P.A. 12-80, S. 80.)

Source: State of ConnecticutView official code

Full Breakdown

Under CGS Section 22-363, no person shall own or harbor any dog that becomes a nuisance because of vicious disposition, excessive barking, or other disturbance, or that annoys any sick person residing nearby. The statute applies in every Connecticut municipality. A first violation is an infraction; subsequent offenses are class D misdemeanors. Courts may order restraint or disposal of the offending dog. Municipal animal control officers and local police enforce the law. Cities and towns may layer additional noise ordinances (such as decibel limits or quiet hours) on top, but the state nuisance standard cannot be weakened by local action.

Violations & Penalties

First offense is an infraction with a fine; subsequent offenses are class D misdemeanors carrying up to 30 days jail and a $250 fine, plus possible restraint or disposal orders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Connecticut state law override local barking dog ordinances?
No. The state statute sets a baseline nuisance standard, but municipalities may adopt stricter local ordinances with decibel limits, quiet hours, or warning procedures. Both can be enforced concurrently.
Who can file a complaint under CGS 22-363?
Any neighbor or affected person can complain to the municipal animal control officer, who may investigate, issue infractions, or seek a court order requiring restraint or removal of the offending dog.

Sources

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.