While most pet owners are mindful of their pet’s whereabouts and try to minimize disturbances from barking, occasionally a dog’s barking becomes distracting to neighbors. If the problem persists, neighbors will sometimes enlist the aid of the police department. Changes made by City Council in 2008 clarify and strengthen the barking dog ordinance to facilitate enforcement. They also bring the ordinance in line with those in neighboring jurisdictions.

Section 505.09 of the city’s Codified Ordinances now states that no dog caretaker shall negligently permit the dog to unreasonably disturb the peace and quiet of a neighborhood. The disturbance can be by frequent or continued barking, howling, yelping, or other animal noises. Violation of the ordinance is a minor misdemeanor.

We urge residents to be mindful of the noise their dogs are making and take them indoors if necessary. To request the assistance of a police officer if you feel someone is in violation of the ordinance, please make a non-emergency call to Warren County Communications at 513-925-2525.

Posted January 6, 2009