(a) In General. No person shall keep, maintain or have in his or her possession or under his or her control within the City any poisonous reptile or any other dangerous or carnivorous wild animal or reptile, any vicious or dangerous domesticated animal or any other animal or reptile of wild, vicious or dangerous propensities.
(b) Definition. For the purpose of this section, the following definition shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning: "Dangerous animal" means any wild mammal, reptile or fowl which is not naturally tame or gentle, but is of a wild nature or disposition, and which, because of its size, vicious nature or other characteristics, would constitute a danger to human life or property if it escaped from secure quarters. "Dangerous animal" also includes any domestic mammal, reptile or fowl which, because of its size or vicious propensity or other characteristics, would constitute a danger to human life or property if it escaped from secure quarters.
(c) Exception for Medical and Educational Institutions. The provisions of subsection (a) hereof shall not apply to medical and educational institutions if:
(1) Their location conforms to the provisions of the Zoning Code of the City.
(2) All animals and animal quarters are kept in a clean and sanitary condition and so maintained as to eliminate objectionable odors.
(3) Animals are maintained in quarters so constructed as to prevent their escape.
(d) Penalty. Whoever violates subsection (a) hereof shall be fined not less than five dollars ($5.00) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500.00) for each offense. A separate offense shall be deemed committed each day during or on which a violation occurs or continues.
(Ord. 187-96. Passed 12-5-96.)