How Barking Dog Complaints Are Handled in Sumter County

If you are experiencing problems with a consistently barking dog in your neighborhood, this article explains how Sumter County Animal Services and the Sumter County Sheriff's Office respond.

Who Handles Barking Dog Complaints

Barking dog complaints are referred to the Sumter County Sheriff's Office for investigation and enforcement.

What Happens When You File a Complaint

1. Contact the Sheriff's Office

Call the Sumter County Sheriff's Office to report the barking dog issue. A deputy will be dispatched to investigate your complaint.

2. Start a Barking Log

In most cases, the responding deputy will ask you to keep a log of the barking incidents. Your log should include:

• Date

• Time

• Duration and nature of the barking

3. Continue Recording

Record several entries over time from the same location. This documentation helps establish a pattern of disturbance.

4. Evidence Review and Next Steps

Once enough evidence has been collected, the Sheriff's Office may forward the case to the Sumter County Board of County Commissioners for review.

5. Special Master Hearing

If necessary, the case may be presented to the Special Master, who determines whether a code violation occurred. If a violation is confirmed, fines may be assessed to the animal’s owner.

Who To Contact

Sumter County Sheriff's Office

Phone: [phone]

Website: Sumter County Sheriff's Office

Helpful Tips

• Keep your barking log detailed and accurate.

• Videos or audio recordings can be helpful but are not required.

• Maintain a courteous relationship with neighbors. In some cases, a conversation can resolve the issue before a formal complaint is needed.

For additional questions, contact Sumter County Animal Services or the Sumter County Sheriff's Office.