[ERCA] Highlights Rockville's Animal Control Ordinance

[ercaerca]

Highlights of the city’s animal control ordinance that take effect July 1 include:

·         Licensing: Any dog, cat or ferret over 4 months old must be vaccinated, licensed and, when off premises, wear a tag and collar, unless they are microchipped.

·         Tethering and sheltering: Changes specify the weight, length and types of tethers that can be used and require, for animals kept outdoors, a weatherproof shelter that allows the animal to stand up and turn around inside.

·         Off-leash: The city may create an off-leash area for dogs in a public recreation area.

·         Trap-neuter-return program: Animal rescue or welfare organizations and animal control may establish a trap-neuter-return program for feral cats that includes vaccinating the cats against rabies when they are trapped and neutered.

·         Chickens: Up to five female chickens (no roosters) may be kept for each single-family dwelling (no multi-family dwellings or townhouses) after obtaining a $25 annual permit and providing written notice to neighbors. Chickens must be kept in predator-proof coops and cages that are at least 5 feet from the property line and 40 feet from adjacent homes. Coops and outdoor enclosures must be kept sanitary. Chickens may not be slaughtered on residential property.

·         Fees: Updated fees include a licensing fee for dogs, cats and ferrets of $1 per month (altered) or $2 per month (unaltered). Fees for dogs, cats and ferrets owned by a senior citizen or handicapped individual or person on public assistance are 50 cents per month (altered) or $2 per month (unaltered).

Additional information may be found at:  http://rockvillemd.gov/index.aspx?NID=249

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Posted By ercaerca to ERCA at 6/26/2015 07:10:00 PM