(A)
In order to own more than 3 dogs over 12 months of age, or 3 cats over 12 months of age, a multiple pet permit is required. Such permit shall be issued by the City Administrator or their designee, upon receipt of a complete application from the owner on a form to be provided by the city, and any additional information reasonably required by the city to evaluate the conditions in which the pets will be kept, payment of the permit fee pursuant to division (B) of this section, and a determination by the Chief of Police that adequate facilities exist, and the owner is of sufficient character and means to ensure that such pets will be kept in clean, humane conditions free of contamination and disease, and in such a manner as to minimize noise and odors. Such permit shall be valid upon payment of the multiple permit fee and a demonstration of continued compliance with the permit requirements. Multiple pet permits shall only be granted with a condition that the property subject to the permit allow inspection of the property by city staff or law enforcement by advanced written notice to the property owner. Failure to allow an inspection shall be a basis for permit revocation under division (C).
(B) A multiple pet permit fee in an amount to be established by Council ordinance shall be due and payable to the city at the time of permit application. This fee shall be in addition to the regular license fee established by the City Council pursuant to § 92.002.
(C) All owners granted multiple pet permits shall maintain the premises and areas where the permitted animals are kept in a clean and humane condition, free from all contamination and diseases and so as to minimize odors and noises, and if the permit is for more than 3 dogs, such premises shall be equipped with a fence that provides an enclosed area from which the animals may not exit without human assistance. Failure to meet such requirements will subject owners to revocation of the multiple pet permit by the City Administrator or their designee. The owner may appeal any such permit revocation by requesting a formal hearing, which must be made in writing to the City Administrator, before the City Council. If necessary to protect the public health, safety and welfare, the City Animal Control Officer or law enforcement officer may impound the animals pending the results of the hearing. In this case, the owner shall tender with his or her request for the hearing, funds in an amount sufficient to defray expenses of the keeping of the animal(s) pending such hearing until the matter is eventually resolved.
(Ord. 577, passed 2-10-15; Am. Ord. 625, passed 9-8-2020)