(A) It is unlawful for any person to possess or harbor a wild and dangerous animal or their hybrids.
(B) Wild and dangerous animals privately owned and maintained within the city limits on or before April 1, 2012 may remain in the city, but such wild and dangerous animals must be registered with the Animal Control Section of the Randolph County Health Department. Furthermore, at the time of registration, owners must submit a recapture plan in the event their animal escapes. Breeding or allowing the reproduction of wild and dangerous animals is prohibited.
(C) Escapes of wild and dangerous animals must be immediately reported to 911 emergency communications.
(D) Owners are liable for costs to agencies associated with the recapture of an escaped wild and dangerous animal.
(E) In order for the owner of a wild and dangerous animal registered in compliance with division (B) of this section to lawfully house such an animal within the city, strict compliance must be maintained at all times with the following requirements:
(1) The enclosure housing the animal must securely contain the animal, including secondary containment from escape;
(2) The enclosure housing the animal must be adequately ventilated, cooled, heated, lighted, and constructed so that it may be kept in a clean and sanitary condition;
(3) The enclosure housing the animal must be compliant with the Asheboro Zoning Ordinance;
(4) The physical and psychological health and well-being of the animal must not be endangered by the manner of confinement;
(5) The keeper/caregiver must have adequate knowledge of the nutritional, physical, and behavioral needs of the species in his or her care; and
(6) The owner/caregiver must be able to identify the veterinarian providing medical care for the animal.
(F) A violation of this section is punishable as a misdemeanor.
(Ord. 02 ORD 1-15, passed 1-8-15; Am. Ord. 36 ORD 12-21, passed 12-9-21)