Information for the Complainant
When there is a problem with barking dogs, it is helpful to talk to or leave a note for the animal owner. Although this may be difficult to do at first, communicating with the animal owner is usually the most effective way to resolve the problem. If talking or leaving a note does not work, try mediation. PLEASE NOTE: Effective March 1, 2013, mediation will be required before a criminal complaint will be considered.
Talk to your neighbor:
- Try to talk to your neighbor when you are not frustrated about the barking.
- When you approach your neighbor, be calm and plan to discuss the barking in a friendly manner.
- Inform your neighbor of the time of day or night that the dog is barking.
- Ask the neighbor whether you can contact him or her, day or night, when the barking is a problem.
If leaving a note for your neighbor:
- Explain what the dog does when the family is away from the residence.
- Choose words that are not offensive or intimidating to the dog owner.
- If you feel safe doing so, include your name, telephone number, or address so the neighbor can respond to your letter.
| ADDITIONAL RESOURCE INFORMATION: | |
| Arizona Humane Society Calls on mistreated, abused, and neglected animals |
(602) 997-7585 |
| Barking Dog Hotline |
(602) 262-6466 |
| Phoenix School of Law Provides mediation |
(602) 464-7800 |
| City of Phoenix Public Works Solid Waste Calls on accumulated feces and odors |
(602) 262-7251 |
| Maricopa County Animal Care and Control Picks up dogs at large and dogs that bite |
(602) 506-7387 |
| City of Phoenix Neighborhood Services Calls on crowing roosters |
(602) 262-7844 |
If you live outside of Phoenix, contact the Police Department in your area for information.
PHOENIX CITY ORDINANCE
Sec. 8-2 Barking or Howling Dogs
A. No person shall keep a dog within the city limits which is in the habit of barking or howling or disturbing the peace and quiet of any person within the City.
B. A person who violates this section is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor; however, the city prosecutor may authorize the filing of certain cases or classes of cases as civil violations unless the person has previously been found responsible or guilty of violating this section.
C. A person found responsible for a civil violation of this section is subject to a sanction of not less than one hundred fifty dollars nor more than two thousand five hundred dollars.
D. In addition to any other penalty authorized by law, a person found guilty of a criminal violation of this section shall pay a fine of not less than one hundred fifty dollars.
