Neighbors Dog Driving You Crazy?!

Barking Dogs in Clark County: When Your Neighbor’s Pet Becomes a Legal Nuisance

At Assured Law, we often hear from homeowners frustrated by incessant barking from a neighbor’s dog. Whether it's early in the morning, late at night, or throughout the day, persistent barking can quickly become more than just an annoyance—it can be a legal nuisance. If you're dealing with this issue in Clark County, Nevada, here's what you need to know about your rights and legal remedies.

What the Law Says: Barking Dogs as a Public Nuisance

Under Clark County Code 10.36.040, continuous or frequent barking, howling, or yelping that interferes with the peace, comfort, or repose of any person is considered a public nuisance. The code specifically prohibits owners from allowing their dogs to bark excessively when it affects nearby residents.

Clark County Code 10.36.040(A): “It is unlawful for any person to own, possess, harbor or control any animal which frequently or for continued duration makes sounds which create a noise disturbance across a residential or commercial real property line or within a noise sensitive zone.”

If you’re suffering from this kind of disruption, you're not powerless.

What You Should Do: Building Your Case

If you're considering action—whether civil or through county enforcement—it’s important to document the problem thoroughly:

1. Keep a Log

Maintain a detailed log of the barking incidents, including:

• Dates and times

• Duration of barking

• How it interfered with your daily life (e.g., disrupted sleep, interrupted work)

  
  

2. Collect Evidence

• Record audio or video (from your property) that clearly captures the barking.

• Note weather conditions to rule out other sounds (wind, alarms, etc.).

• If possible, get statements from other affected neighbors.

  
  

3. Contact Animal Control

File a complaint with Clark County Animal Control. In some cases, they may issue a warning or citation to the dog owner and can require the owner to take corrective action.

Legal Remedies Through the Court

If local enforcement fails or the problem persists, you may consider a civil nuisance claim. Nevada law permits residents to sue for private nuisance, and a persistently barking dog can meet that standard.

Potential Legal Remedies:

• Injunctive Relief: A court order requiring the dog owner to stop the nuisance (e.g., by training, rehoming, or installing anti-bark equipment).

• Monetary Damages: Compensation for:

  • Loss of quiet enjoyment

  • Sleep deprivation or emotional distress

  • Property devaluation (if applicable)

In extreme cases, punitive damages may be considered if the owner knowingly refuses to act.

Proactive Steps & Neighborly Approaches

Before filing a complaint or lawsuit, consider:

• Politely notifying the dog owner of the issue

• Using mediation services through the local justice court

• Offering constructive solutions, such as dog training resources

Sometimes, a well-documented letter from a lawyer can motivate action without ever stepping foot in court.

Assured Law Can Help

At Assured Law, we help homeowners protect their right to peace and quiet. If barking dogs are making your home life miserable, we can help you:

• Understand your legal options

• Prepare documentation and evidence

• Pursue enforcement or file a nuisance claim

You don’t have to live with a four-legged alarm clock next door. Contact us for a free consultation and start taking your peace of mind back.

This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For a case-specific evaluation, contact an attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.