03/23/2005 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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The amended regulations will state that animals, when not on the owner's property, are required to be in a motor vehicle or controlled by a leash. Therefore, the city will be adopting a "leash law" to maintain better control of animals within city limits. The police department would like to eliminate problems caused by animals that do not follow voice command. This amendment can be found in Section 503.12, Prohibitions. The second major revision relates to the issuance of private kennel licenses. City Staff has become aware that a number of residents currently own more than two dogs not allowed under our existing ordinance. Therefore these dogs are not licensed and out of city control. In an attempt to increase conformity and control, this section of the code has been amended. Currently, a private kennel, allowing more than two and not more than four dogs on a property, is allowed only on a parcel of land five (5) acres or more in size and requires a Conditional Use Permit. Under the proposed amended regulations, the city will allow private kennels on a minimum of one (1) acre of land, and will no longer require residents to obtain a Conditional Use Permit. A private kennel may be allowed only after an inspection reveals that adequate safeguards are present to protect the surrounding neighborhood from nuisances and to ensure compliance with Chapter 503 as well as Chapter 1007 (Zoning Ordinance). This amendment can be found in Section 503.10, Kennel Licenses. The final major revision is that the city will no longer allow farm animals in residential districts. Currently, there is a clause in the animal ordinance for farm animals that are kept as pets. In the new Chapter 503, farm animals, as defined, are prohibited in residential districts. This amendment can be found in Section 503.18, Farm Animals. Adoption of revised Chapter 503 will require that certain Definitions in Chapter 1007, Zoning Ordinance, will need to be amended. These definitions are: Animals, Farm Kennel, Commercial Kennel, Private These definitions should be amended in Chapter 1007 to match the definition that is established in the updated Chapter 503. STAFF OPINION In an attempt to improve animal control within the city, and to bring more residents into conformity with city regulations, City Staff and Police Department Staff request that the updated Chapter 503 be approved. This adoption will create one unified chapter that addresses animals within the city. No action is required at this time. These amendments will be made along with City Codification. 2