No person shall harbor any noisy animal, fowl, livestock, or wildlife of any kind that makes an unreasonable disturbance to the peace of the occupants of an adjacent premises or the vicinity thereof, including the making of unusual noises by howling, barking, or bawling.
If you are bothered by an excessively barking dog in your neighborhood, consider speaking with your neighbor before reporting the nuisance. Work cooperatively with your neighbor to look for patterns of when the dog is barking to help determine the cause. Most pet owners want to be good neighbors and will take steps to correct the problem. If excessive barking continues, you may file a complaint with Animal Control by calling 940-761-7824. You will need to provide an exact address of where the animal(s) live.
Our officers will attempt to make contact with the owners at their residence. We will provide information to the owner on ways to help with excessive barking. If we are unable to make contact, the owner of the offending animal(s) will be given a handout with recommendations on how to keep the animal from creating a noise disturbance. Your information will not be shared with the animal owner.
If you continue to experience excessive noise violations after receiving this response and want to pursue this matter further, you may complete the attached time log and witness statement and turn these documents, along with any audio/visual evidence, into the Wichita Falls Municipal Court. Please be aware that any court proceedings will require your testimony and that of any other witnesses. In addition, you must be able to identify your neighbor in the court of law.
We have attached a sample barking dog log and two optional courtesy letters for your use, and directions on how to to file evidence and start the process. Please be aware that noise complaints may be subjective and habitual barking complaints are more substantial if supported by more than one neighbor.
To file a complaint, click here Headline or call Animal Services Dispatch at 940-761-7824.