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Animal Keeping RegulationsThe city has adopted Ordinance No. 749 creating additional requirements for animals effective March 1, 2007. The new regulations affect domestic animals which are typically home pets, and also other animals that are kept with the dwelling unit. Click here for a complete copy of Ordinance No. 749. Domestic and Non-Domestic Animal regulations can alsobe found in City Code Chapter 166.36. The new regulations are further defined below: Animals, Domestic: A domestic animal is an animal or fowl that is typically accessory to occupancy in a principal dwelling such as a dog, cat, rabbit or potbellied pig, and is tame or domesticated. Domestic animals of a smaller nature include gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs, mice, birds, snakes, ferrets and other similar animals maintained as pets and not for breeding purposes. Domestic Animals Restricted: The maximum number of dogs, cats, rabbits and potbellied pigs or animals or fowl of this nature is four (4) adult animals in any combination belonging to the owner of the principal use. There is no limit to the number of smaller animals that may be kept in the dwelling unit. So, what should you do? For guidance on how the Domestic Animal Regulations, click here. Animals, Non-Domestic: Non-domestic animals are accessory to occupancy in a principal dwelling and may consist of small caged animals and fowl such as falcons, pigeons, pheasants, quail, chickens, ducks, geese, and other small animals and fowl of this nature which are kept outside the dwelling and of such type and nature that state and national associations exist establishing norms for breeding, confining and rearing. Pygmy goats and miniature horses are not included. Non-Domestic Animals Restricted: No non-domestic animals are allowed on a lot of less than 20,000 square feet. The number of non-domestic adult animals is limited to two (2) in total number on any parcel greater than 20,000 square feet. So, what should you do? If you have animals that were previously lawful, and are now unlawful, it is recommended that you obtain a Letter of Zoning Compliance from the Community Development Department. You can be “grandfathered” only if you receive a Letter of Zoning Compliance, which will substantiate that you were lawful and continue to be lawful should there be a question in the future. The ordinance also allows for property owners to apply for a Special Exception. Even though you may be in violation of the ordinance, there may be extenuating circumstances that would allow you to keep the animals you have. To get answers on what you should do, click here for Non-Domestic Animal Guidance. For more information about this program, contact the Community Development Department at 727-7765 or by email. |
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