Report Dangerous Dogs and Bites in Murfreesboro

Public Safety Tennessee 3 Minutes Read · published February 21, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

In Murfreesboro, Tennessee, reporting a dangerous dog or a bite incident starts with immediate safety and then notifying official animal-control authorities. This guide explains how Murfreesboro handles reports under the municipal code, how enforcement works, what to expect after a complaint, and practical steps to protect yourself and preserve evidence. For the controlling municipal ordinance, see the Murfreesboro Municipal Code[1].

Penalties & Enforcement

The city’s animal regulations and enforcement responsibilities are set out in the municipal code and enforced by city animal control officers and the Murfreesboro Police Department. Specific statutory language, responsible offices, and enforcement powers are documented in the municipal code and related city pages[1]. If a cited page does not list amounts or time limits, the text below notes "not specified on the cited page" and indicates the cited source.

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: whether first, repeat, or continuing offences trigger higher fines or daily penalties is not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: the code authorizes orders such as confinement, leash requirements, vaccination, quarantine, or seizure where an animal is dangerous; specific remedies and procedures are set in the ordinance text.[1]
  • Enforcer: Murfreesboro Animal Control and the Murfreesboro Police Department handle complaints, investigations, inspections, and any seizure actions.
  • Appeals and review: the municipal code or the enforcing department describe appeal routes; specific time limits for filing appeals are not specified on the cited page.
Keep a written log of calls, dates, witnesses, and medical treatment after a bite.

Applications & Forms

Many complaints can be initiated by phone or an online complaint form if offered by the city; the municipal code itself does not always publish an application form. For the city’s official complaint/animal control contact information, consult the city pages linked in Resources.[1]

  • Official complaint form: not specified on the cited page; check the Animal Control contact page for an online report or printable form.
  • Fees: any impoundment or redemption fees are set by ordinance or administrative schedule and are not specified on the cited page.
  • Deadlines: immediate reporting is required for bites; specific statutory deadlines for appeals or quarantine notices are not specified on the cited page.
If bitten, seek medical attention and request documentation to support a later report.

How-To

  1. Ensure safety: remove people from danger, secure the animal if safe, and call 911 for immediate threat or serious injury.
  2. Get medical care for bite wounds and obtain treatment records and a clinician’s report.
  3. Collect evidence: photograph injuries, the animal, the location, and obtain witness names and contact details.
  4. Contact Murfreesboro Animal Control or the Police Department to file an official complaint as soon as possible.
  5. Submit any required forms or written statements requested by the department; keep copies of all submissions and receipts.
  6. If cited or ordered to quarantine, follow official orders exactly and note appeal deadlines if you intend to contest an order.

FAQ

Who enforces dangerous-dog rules in Murfreesboro?
The Murfreesboro Animal Control unit and Murfreesboro Police Department enforce the citys animal regulations; see the municipal code for enforcement language.[1]
Do I have to report a bite if I was treated at a hospital?
Yes. Seek medical care first, then file a report with animal control so the incident is recorded and any required quarantine or investigation can begin.
Can the city remove a dangerous dog from private property?
The municipal code authorizes seizure or removal in certain circumstances; the code text and enforcement procedures specify when removal is permitted.[1]
What if I disagree with an enforcement order?
Appeal procedures are established by the municipal enforcement rules; check the citys enforcement/appeals language for time limits and steps, as specific time frames are not specified on the cited page.

Key Takeaways

  • Report bites immediately to Animal Control and seek medical care.
  • Preserve evidence: photos, witness contacts, and medical records support investigations.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Murfreesboro Municipal Code - Code of Ordinances

Categories

General Governance and Administration Public Safety Public Health and Welfare Land Use and Zoning Housing and Building Standards Transportation Environmental Protection Parks and Public Spaces Business and Consumer Protection Taxation and Finance Labor and Employment Education Civil Rights and Equity Elections and Campaign Finance Events and Special Uses Signs and Advertising Utilities and Infrastructure Technology and Data