a. It is a violation of this Subchapter for anyone to own, harbor or keep any exotic or wild animal without obtaining a permit from the State Department of Fish and Wildlife where required by statute and without obtaining a permit from the City of Bowling Green. Permits shall be given only if it is demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Animal Control Officer that the facility where the animal is to be kept is adequate for that animal, the animal is or will be properly restrained and the animal will not constitute a threat to public health or safety. Any movement of the exotic or wild animal within the City will also require the written permission of the Animal Control Officer.
b. Any exotic or wild animal which is kept in the City in violation of this Chapter shall be impounded by the Animal Control Officer, or by such other persons or organizations as may be designated by the Board of Commissioners. The impounded animal shall be kept at an appropriate facility at the expense of the owner for a period not to exceed thirty (30) days. The owner may reclaim the exotic or wild animal by paying the expenses incurred by the City for the animal’s care if the owner can demonstrate to the Animal Control Officer that the animal will be kept in compliance with this Chapter. If the owner cannot demonstrate that the exotic or wild animal can be kept in compliance with this Chapter, the animal is not claimed or the expenses paid, the Animal Control Officer or other persons or organizations as may be designated by the Board of Commissioners may sell or otherwise dispose of the exotic or wild animal.
(Ord. BG2006-5, 3/7/2006)