Navigating Dog Barking Ordinances

Understanding Barking Dog Ordinances

Imagine being a devoted dog owner, reveling in the joy of your furry companion’s presence. Life is filled with playful barks and wagging tails until one day, a citation arrives on your doorstep. Yes, the unexpected consequence of excessive dog barking can indeed escalate to a misdemeanor, potentially leading to jail time and a hefty penalty of up to $1,000. In this article, we’ll step into the shoes of a dog owner who received that dreaded ticket, uncovering the surprising legal twists and turns while maintaining a lighthearted tone – all in the name of responsible pet ownership.  Below we take a look at some of the Ordinances in the Treasure Valley.

Boise City Code Section 6-02: Noise Ordinance Boise City has a specific noise ordinance, outlined in Boise City Code Section 5-1-13 which addresses animal related nuisances within the city, including excessive dog barking. Key points include:

• Excessive Noise Nuisance:
  An animal that barks, bays, cries, howls, or emits any excessive animal noise audible beyond the boundaries of the property on which the animal is situated for an extended period of time, day or night, thereby unreasonably disturbing another person. For purposes of this section “extended period of time” means either:
   
        1.   Any barking, baying, crying, howling, or other animal noise emitted by one or more animals incessantly for thirty (30) minutes with individual interruptions of less than twenty (20) seconds at a time during the thirty (30) minute period; or
   
        2.   Any barking, baying, crying, howling or other animal noise emitted by one or more animals intermittently for sixty (60) minutes or more within a twenty-four (24) hour period.

   

There are exceptions such as if someone is teasing the animal.

Meridian City Code Section 6-2: Noise Control In Meridian, Idaho, the city’s animal control regulations are governed by Meridian City Code Section 6-2. This code addresses noise-related concerns, including dog barking. Key points to note include:

• Barking Dog: 6-2-8(A) It shall be unlawful for any dog owner to permit a dog owned by such person to carry on excessive, continuous or untimely barking or noise. A violation of this subsection shall constitute an infraction punishable by a fine of one hundred dollars ($100.00).

Eagle City Code Section 4-5-2: Noise Regulations Eagle, Idaho, also has its own noise regulations, as outlined in Eagle City Code Section 4-5-2. This code addresses various animal-related issues, including dog barking. Key points to consider are:

• Excessive Noise: It shall be unlawful for any person or persons keeping, harboring, possessing, controlling, caring for or having any custodial duties over any animal to fail to exercise proper care and control of such animal to prevent it from becoming a public nuisance. Such person or persons shall be guilty of allowing such animal to become a public nuisance when the animal makes excessive, continuous, or untimely barking or other noise

Idaho Statutes While Idaho statutes, particularly those in Title 25, address various aspects of animal control and regulations, they may not explicitly cover dog barking ordinances. Nonetheless, these statutes provide a broader legal framework for responsible pet ownership.

Local Variations It’s important to note that specific regulations related to dog barking may vary at the county, municipal, or city level within the Boise, Meridian, and Eagle areas. Local ordinances and rules can differ, so consulting with local authorities or seeking legal guidance is advisable for precise information.

Legal Assistance If you encounter issues related to dog barking ordinances in Boise, Meridian, Eagle, or any other legal matters, Gem State Attorneys is here to help. Our experienced attorneys can provide guidance on navigating local regulations, resolving disputes with neighbors, and addressing any legal concerns related to your pet.

Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Dog barking ordinances and related laws are subject to change. For personalized legal assistance regarding dog barking ordinances or any other legal matters, please consult with an attorney to ensure you have the most up-to-date and accurate information tailored to your specific situation.