Posted by lilian,

Hi,
Question about what constitutes “excessive noise” that would justify a complaint to the city. I received a letter from animal control stating that a neighbor filed a complaint that my dog barks excessively. I found out recently that this neighbor sleeps until about 10 a.m. is awoken by my dog around 9 a.m. How can this be considered excessive barking? Isn’t construction allowed to begin at 7 a.m.? And what are the laws for people who play drums, i.e., how early can they start? How early can garden service start, i.e., how early can they run a lawnmower? I understand that these are things that can be settled/compromised between neighbors but apparently my neighbor prefers to involve the city.

Dear lilian,
So your dog is having a “barkathon” while you are away? The general noise ordinance for the city of Sacramento states that between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. the following day are the times in which officers can enforce the ordinance. Citizens can call the non-emergency number and have an officer dispatched. We will give the involved parties a warning. If the problem continues after we leave and the police receive a second call, we would then cite the concerned parties. The city’s Animal Services Division, as you already know, handles barking dog complaints. They will give you a chance to correct the barking issue, especially because you weren’t aware that your dog was so vocal. Call the number of the Animal Control officer that issued you the notice and start a dialog. You can reach them by calling 311.

The city’s Code Enforcement Division is responsible for the investigation of complaints of ongoing and aggravated noise which require monitoring with sound level meters, or which are of a habitual or mechanical nature. Two common examples are a garage or residence being used as a rehearsal hall, or local bars where music or amplified sound disturbs those residing or working in the area. You can contact the Code Enforcement Division at 916-264-5948 if you have questions. The public can use their on-line form to register complaints.

Take care,
Officer Michelle