(A) Whenever an inspection is required to enforce any of the provisions of or perform any duty imposed by this chapter or there is reasonable cause to believe there exists in any building or structure or upon any premises a violation of the provisions of this chapter or state law, the animal control officer, a health department officer or law enforcement officer is authorized at all reasonable times to inspect the same to determine compliance with this chapter or state law; provided that:
(1) If the property to be inspected is occupied, the attending officer shall first present proper credentials to the occupant and request entry, explaining the reasons therefor; and
(2) If the property to be inspected is unoccupied, the attending officer shall make a reasonable effort to locate the person(s) having control of the property and request entry, explaining the reasons therefor.
(B) In the event the attending officer has reasonable cause to believe the keeping or maintaining of an animal(s) on or about the property is sufficiently hazardous or dangerous as to require immediate inspection to safeguard the animal(s) or the public health or safety, the officer shall first present proper credentials and request entry, explaining the reasons therefor. If entry is refused or cannot be obtained because the attending person(s) having ownership or control of the property cannot be found after reasonable search, the attending officer shall have recourse to secure lawful entry and inspect the property.
(Ord. G-23-18, passed 9-25-18)