[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §100.010, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016]
This Chapter is made for the purpose of regulating the ownership
and possession of animals in the unincorporated areas of Jefferson
County, Missouri, in order to protect and promote the public health
and safety, reduce and prevent the entrance of zoonotic diseases into
Jefferson County, Missouri, and provide for the welfare of domesticated
animals in the unincorporated areas of Jefferson County, Missouri.
Any animal used by law enforcement agencies for enforcement, protection
and rescue activities shall not be subject to the provisions of this
Chapter. Designated service animals shall be exempt from some portions
of this Chapter as provided by Federal law.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §100.020, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016]
This Chapter shall be known and cited as the Jefferson County,
Missouri Animal Control Ordinance.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §100.030, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016]
This Chapter is enacted under authority vested in the Jefferson
County, Missouri, Council, by Section 192.300, RSMo., and the Home
Rule Charter of Jefferson County, Missouri.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §100.040, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016]
The following terms whenever referred to in this Chapter shall
have the following respective meanings unless a different meaning
clearly appears from the context:
The provision of normal and prudent attention to the needs
of an animal, to include, but not be limited to, provisions for wholesome
food, fresh and clean water, appropriate shelter and health care as
is necessary to maintain the good health and welfare of the specific
species, breed, or age of the animal.
To physically restrain or govern an animal so that the animal
does not pose a threat of injury to itself, to another animal, to
personal property or to a human being. Working dogs, service animals
or show animals, when actively engaged in working, service or show;
or training for work, service or show, may be exempted based on specific
conditions unique to the function of the animal.
The provision of wholesome foodstuffs at suitable intervals
or not more than twelve (12) hours, unless the dietary requirements
of the species require a longer interval or a quantity of wholesome
foodstuff, suitable for the species and age, sufficient to maintain
a reasonable level of nutrition in each animal, all of which foodstuff
is served in a safe animal feeding receptacle, dish or container.
The provision to each animal of all immunizations and preventative
medical care, exercise and rest required to maintain good animal health,
and such medical care and attention as is necessary to return a sick
or injured animal to good health, or when in the best interest of
the animal, the provision of humanely euthanizing the animal for poor
health reasons.
The continuous provision of a sanitary facility, protection
from the extremes of weather conditions, proper ventilation and appropriate
space depending on the species of animal as defined by regulations
of the Missouri Department of Agriculture.
The provision of a primary enclosure consisting of four (4)
walls, a roof and floor, that provides entrance and egress from one
(1) opening, that provides the animal with protection from the elements,
is of sufficient size to allow the animal adequate space to stand,
turn around and lay down, and meets the provisions of the Animal Care
Facilities Act.
The provision, either continuously, or at intervals suitable
to the age and species of the animal, which intervals shall not exceed
eight (8) hours of clean, wholesome, potable water supplied in a safe
animal watering receptacle, dish or container.
Every living vertebrate except a human being, and any living
creature kept as a pet by an owner, harborer, or keeper.
The leaving or discarding of an animal in any place without
making provisions for the animal's adequate care and control,
including the leaving or discarding of animals at any animal care
facility without the prior consent of the facility.
The causing of illness, injury or suffering to an animal.
The required provisions of animal care as prescribed by Section
273.325, et. seq., of the Revised Statutes of the State of Missouri.
Any animal control facility or municipal animal pound operated
by Jefferson County, Missouri.
The Division of the Jefferson County, Missouri, Department
of County Services and Code Enforcement, created for the purpose of
operating the Animal Control Center and enforcing the Animal Control
Ordinance.
A person appointed to supervise the enforcement of this Chapter,
the Animal Control Center, and the Animal Control Division of the
Jefferson County Department of County Services and Code Enforcement;
or assigned designee.
Any specially trained Jefferson County, Missouri officer
employed or appointed to enforce the Animal Control Ordinance, the
animal welfare laws of the State of Missouri, and the regulations
and procedures promulgated thereunder.
Any vehicle owned and operated by Jefferson County, Missouri,
and assigned to the Animal Control Division for the transportation
of animals and the enforcement of this Chapter.
The act of any person or persons to knowingly or intentionally
cause illness, injury or suffering to an animal.
Any failure by the owner, harborer or keeper of any animal
to provide adequate care or adequate control of any animal as defined
in this Chapter.
A condition under which an animal is off the property of
its owner, harborer, keeper or other consenting property owner and
not under the physical restraint of a responsible person who is capable
of controlling the domestic animal. An animal that is actively engaged
with its owner, harborer or keeper present, in hunting, training,
herding or showing shall not be considered running at large.
Any aggressive contact or non-bite injury to a human being
or other domesticated animal by another animal.
Any injury to a human being or other domesticated animal
by another animal resulting from the penetration of the victim's
skin by the teeth of the animal.
Any person other than the owner, harborer or keeper, who
provides overnight kenneling of animals for profit, for more than
twenty-four (24) hours.
Any person who maintains unsterilized dog(s) and/or cat(s)
for the purpose of breeding with the intent to cause the whelping
of, sale of or transfer of ownership of the same.
All members of the Felis domesticus, either male or female,
three (3) months of age or older.
A tag and certificate issued by a licensed practicing veterinarian
and reported to Jefferson County Animal Control, evidencing that an
animal has been vaccinated against rabies.
The Jefferson County, Missouri, Council.
The unincorporated areas of Jefferson County, Missouri.
Any animal that, according to the records of the Animal Control
Division:
Has inflicted severe injury on a human being without provocation
or command on public or private property;
Has killed a domestic animal without provocation or command
while outside the boundaries of the owner's property; or
Has been previously determined to be a "potentially dangerous
animal" as that term is defined in this Chapter, the owner having
received notice of such and the animal having again aggressively bitten,
attacked, or endangered the safety of humans or domestic animals.
Any:
Lion, tiger, leopard, ocelot, jaguar, cheetah, margay, mountain
lion, Canada lynx, bobcat, jaguarundi, bear, hyena, wolf, coyote,
or any hybrid thereof;
Non-human primate;
Deadly, dangerous, or venomous reptile over eight (8) feet long;
or
Any alligator, crocodile, or caiman over two (2) feet long.
The Director of the Department of County Services and Code
Enforcement or a Jefferson County, Missouri staff member assigned
to act on his or her behalf.
Canis familiaris, either male or female, three (3) months
of age or older.
Any non-wild animal.
Any traditionally domesticated animal that has been born
in the wild or becomes undomesticated and returned to its wild nature;
that can survive on its own without intervention of humans; is unsociable
to humans; and is not a pet currently licensed with Jefferson County.
To provide food, water, shelter, or veterinary care to an
animal or animals at the same location for more than seventy-two (72)
hours.
Any person who provides enabling care or control of an animal
for more than seventy-two (72) hours, or any person who provides temporary
care and control over an animal owned by another person.
Any person, group of persons or corporations engaged in breeding,
buying, selling, sheltering or boarding of domestic dogs or cats,
whether for pleasure or profit, or the premises where such breeding,
buying, selling, sheltering or boarding takes place.
All members of the Felis domesticus less than three (3) months
of age.
A tag and/or certificate issued by Jefferson County evidencing
that an animal or kennel has been registered with and licensed by
Jefferson County.
A property interest in an animal, actual or claimed, or the
exercise of dominion or control over the animal or the intent to exercise
dominion or control over an animal with the present ability to do
so.
Any person who keeps or harbors an animal or professes to
be owning, keeping, or harboring an animal.
For the purposes of this Chapter, the word "permit" shall
include the failure to take the necessary action to prevent the specified
event or circumstance from occurring (including, but not limited to,
animals running at large, or attacking other animals or humans).
Any individual, partnership, firm, joint stock company, corporation,
association, trust, estate, or other legal entity.
An approved means by which an animal is secured (by a leash,
tether, cable, chain or other appropriate tie down; by a fence, structure
or other form of physical barrier) that confines the animal to the
property of its owner. Voice command, shock or other forms of electronic
restraint do not constitute physical restraint.
Any animal that when unprovoked:
Attacks or inflicts bites on a human or domestic animal either
on public or private property;
Has been found running or being at large and collected by the
County twice in any eighteen (18) month period; or
Has been found running or being at large with a group of three
(3) or more at large animals.
A veterinarian licensed by the State of Missouri to practice
veterinary medicine.
While on the owner's property, a dangerous animal shall
be securely confined indoors or in a securely enclosed and locked
pen or structure, suitable to prevent the entry of young children
and designed to prevent the animal from escaping. Such pen or structure
shall have secure sides of sufficient height and a secure top attached
to the sides to prevent escape; shall have a secure bottom or floor
that is attached to the sides of the pen and made of a solid material
(such as concrete) through which the animal cannot dig or burrow.
The pen shall be locked with a key or combination lock when such animals
are within the structure. Such pen shall also provide protection from
the elements for the animal. Any such pen must comply with all applicable
zoning and building regulations.
Canis familiaris, either male or female, less than three
(3) months of age.
The American Veterinary Medical Association, Compendium of
Animal Rabies Prevention and Control, Copyright 2004.
Any physical injury that results in broken bones or disfiguring
lacerations requiring sutures or cosmetic surgery or breaking of skin.
To surgically, chemically or by any other methods approved
by the Animal Control Manager, change an animal for the purpose of
rendering such animal incapable of reproduction.
An individual who is currently licensed by the State of Missouri
to provide veterinary services and who is qualified to perform certain
rabies control functions.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §200.010, 12-22-2004]
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §200.020, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
The Animal Control Manager, under the supervision of the Director
shall administer this Chapter. The Animal Control Manager, with the
approval of the Director and consistent with the Jefferson County
Personnel Administration Program may appoint one (1) or more persons
as Animal Control Officers.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Director and Officials – Appointment
and Duties” to “Animal Control Manager – Duties.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §200.030, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016]
A.
It
shall be the duty of Animal Control Officers to enforce this Chapter
and any other provision of State law pertaining to the health and
welfare of animals. Animal Control Officers are empowered to:
1.
Bear satisfactory identification reflecting the authority under which
they act,
2.
Question persons, without the exercise of physical control, falling
under the jurisdiction of this Chapter and State laws pertaining to
health and welfare of animals,
3.
Issue citations and summonses for violations of this Chapter and
State statutes,
4.
Seize animals pursuant to this Chapter and State statutes.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §200.040, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
The Animal Control Manager, with the approval of the Director,
may make such reasonable rules and regulations as are necessary for
the proper and efficient administration of this Chapter.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Regulations By Director” to “Regulations
By Animal Control Manager.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §200.050, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016]
In times of emergency conditions which, in the opinion of the
Animal Control Manager, present real or potential dangers to the human
or animal population of the County because of a weakness in the rabies
control program or the threat or actual presence of rabies in the
County, the Animal Control Manager shall, upon the authorization of
the Director and/or the Jefferson County, Missouri, Executive, issue
any decrees or use any other available means necessary to eliminate
or abate hazards to the people of the County. Such decrees may order
confinement or other regulation of all animals, low-cost mass immunization
clinics or any other measure reasonably related to the protection
of the health and welfare of the public. The emergency decree shall
remain in effect for a period of six (6) months from the date of the
decree or until such time as the County Council addresses the issue
by passage of necessary legislation or until the emergency conditions
no longer exist, whichever is shorter.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §200.100, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016]
There shall be a facility, to be called the Animal Control Center,
which is to have all legitimate functions of an municipal pound, which
will be operated by the County through the Animal Control Division;
shall be licensed by the State of Missouri Department of Agriculture;
shall be operated in accordance with the Animal Care Facilities Act;
shall be designated as a rabies quarantine facility for the County;
and was formerly known as the “Jefferson County Animal Shelter.”
The Animal Control Manager shall establish the standards of operations
of the Animal Control Center. In addition to the above functions,
the Animal Control Center will perform such rabies and animal disease
control functions as are required by this Chapter or assigned by the
Animal Control Manager.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §200.110, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
Every person who owns or harbors an animal that is either known to have or is suspected of having rabies, or an animal that has been bitten by or exposed to a rabid animal, shall confine and isolate the affected animal in some secure place and immediately notify the Animal Control Center as to where the animal is confined. To ensure proper observation, security or destruction of the animal, the Animal Control Manager may require the person to surrender the animal for observation and/or disposal at the cost of the person pursuant to Section 215.220.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Rabies or Suspicion of Rabies” to
“Rabies or Suspicion of Rabies – Confinement and Quarantine
Required.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §200.120, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
Every veterinarian in Jefferson County shall report at once
to the Animal Control Manager, by telephone and in writing, every
case of clinical rabies (hydrophobia) of which he/she has knowledge.
The Animal Control Division shall in turn report every case of clinical
rabies to the Jefferson County Health Department. Veterinarians shall
submit the brain of all animals treated by them and dying of rabies
or suspected rabies to the Animal Control Division for confirmation
of diagnosis. Veterinarians vaccinating animals that are kept within
the County shall furnish the owner with a Certificate of Rabies Vaccination,
giving the name and address of the owner, the date of immunization,
the type of vaccine administered, the sex and complete description
of the animal and any other information required by the Animal Control
Manager.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Veterinarian Reports” to “Veterinarian
Reports of Rabies Required.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §200.130, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
In every case where an animal bites any person, any person with knowledge of such incident shall immediately notify the Animal Control Division or Jefferson County 9-1-1. Such animal immediately comes under the jurisdiction of the Animal Control Division who shall supervise the quarantine of such animal. Dogs, cats and other animals that have bitten any person shall be processed pursuant to Section 215.220, except as provided in Section 215.300.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Procedure When Animal Bites Person”
to “Procedure When Animal Bites Person – Reporting and
Quarantine Required.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §200.140, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
A.
Prior
to initiating operations, the operator of a kennel shall register
with the Animal Control Division and procure a County Kennel License.
A County Kennel License shall be required annually of any boarding
or breeding operations. The Animal Control Division shall charge a
fee to cover the cost of regulating kennel operations as follows:
B.
A license
shall be issued upon inspection by the Animal Control Manager or designee
to determine that the kennel operator can provide adequate food, adequate
water, housing and sanitary facilities for animals under the control
of the kennel. Operation of a kennel without a valid license shall
constitute a violation of this Chapter.
C.
The
Animal Control Manager or a designee is hereby authorized to inspect
kennels during normal business hours as frequently as the Animal Control
Manager or a designee deem appropriate. If such inspection reveals
that adequate food, adequate water, adequate housing or sanitary facilities
are not being provided, the Animal Control Manager or a designee may
withdraw the kennel operator’s license. The license will not
be re-issued until a subsequent inspection reveals the presence of
adequate conditions as required by this Chapter.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Kennels” to “County Kennel
Licenses – Adequate Care and Control of Kenneled Animals Required.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §300.010, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
No dog or cat shall be permitted within the unincorporated areas
of Jefferson County unless such animal is licensed and the fee imposed
by this Chapter is paid. A County Animal License constitutes a presumption
of ownership. Transient animals, as defined herein, are exempt from
such requirement but only for thirty (30) days.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Vaccination-Registration Certificate Required”
to “County Animal License Required.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §300.020, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
A.
Every
person who owns or possesses any dog or cat, whether in a kennel or
not, that is kept any time during the year within the unincorporated
area of Jefferson County or permits a said dog or cat to come upon,
on or in the unincorporated area of the County or to remain in or
about his/her home, place of business or other premises in the area
affected by this Chapter shall have such animal vaccinated against
rabies and registered as provided herein. Such animals must be vaccinated
with a vaccine approved and listed in the most recently copyrighted
version of the American Veterinary Medical Association, Compendium
of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control. The frequency of the vaccination
shall correspond to the effective period of the previously administered
vaccine. Every person who is responsible for such an animal shall
have the animal vaccinated against rabies as provided in this Chapter
on or before the animal is four (4) months of age or, at such other
time as recommended by a veterinarian for animals suffering from a
condition that would subject the animal to further complications as
a result of the vaccination.
B.
Every
dog or cat which has been vaccinated in accordance with the provisions
of this Chapter shall at all times wear the rabies vaccination tag
in the manner herein prescribed in this Chapter. Regardless of the
animal’s normal living environment, by displaying the tag on
the animal’s collar or harness.
C.
It
shall be unlawful for a person to own any such animal unless such
animal has been vaccinated against rabies and wears a current, unexpired
rabies vaccination tag and the owner possesses a certificate issued
in accordance with the provisions of this Chapter. However, kennel
operators may post a current, unexpired kennel license and provide
documentation to the Animal Control Division of rabies vaccinations
for all animals maintained in the kennel.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Vaccination-Registration of Dogs and Cats
Required -- Tags” to “Rabies Vaccination Required.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §300.030, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 10-0191 §1, 4-6-2010; Ord.
No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
A.
It
shall be the duty of every veterinarian to participate in the County’s
rabies control program by:
1.
Vaccinating every dog or cat over three (3) months of age against
rabies and providing the owner of such vaccinated animal with a Certificate
of Rabies Vaccination, and
2.
Distributing County animal licensing requirement information and
application forms to the owner of each dog or cat vaccinated against
rabies.
B.
It
shall be the duty of the owner of any vaccinated animal to:
1.
Submit to the Animal Control Division, the County animal license
application and a copy of the rabies vaccination certificate to receive
the County animal license, and
2.
Retain a copy of the certificate and license for inspection by an
authorized representative of the Animal Control Division or any law
enforcement official.
C.
It
shall be the duty of the Animal Control Division to:
1.
Issue the County animal license and to maintain the rabies vaccination
certificate information and County animal license information for
filing and statistical purposes, and
2.
Maintain cross-files of rabies certificates and County animal licenses
by the name of the owner and the number of the certificate and license.
D.
The
expenses of maintaining the system of rabies vaccination and County
animal license shall include materials, notification, filing, investigation
and enforcement to increase and maintain a high level of rabies immunization
in the County. For the purpose of maintaining this system, the following
fees are established for County animal license. A fee of ten dollars
($10.00) is established for each animal vaccination per animal, and
thirty dollars ($30.00) is established for each three-year vaccination
per animal. The registration and licensing period shall coincide with
the period of effectiveness of the rabies vaccination.
E.
At
the time of the vaccination of any dog or cat, the veterinarian administering
the vaccination shall also deliver to the owner of the said dog or
cat the Certificate of Rabies Vaccination as evidence of such inoculation.
F.
Every
owner of a vaccinated animal shall attach the tag evidencing rabies
vaccination and County animal licensing to the collar or harness of
the vaccinated animal and such collar or harness shall be worn by
that animal at all times. Any dog or cat found without a tag is deemed
not vaccinated and not licensed unless proof of vaccination and licensing
is provided.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Vaccination-Registration System –
Requirements, Fees and Information Files” to “Rabies Vaccination
and Certification Requirements, Responsibilities, Fees and Information
Files.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §300.040, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
A.
It
shall be unlawful to:
1.
Transfer a County animal license or rabies vaccination tag from one
animal to another;
2.
Affix a County animal license to an animal that has not been licensed;
3.
Affix a rabies vaccination tag to an animal that has not been vaccinated
against rabies; or
4.
Counterfeit, alter, obliterate or attempt to counterfeit, alter or
obliterate any County animal license or rabies vaccination tags.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Registration Tags – Non-Transferability
and Prohibited Uses” to “County Animal License and Rabies
Vaccination Tags – Non-Transferability and Prohibited Uses.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §300.050, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
Loss of any County animal license or rabies vaccination tag
issued by the County shall be reported promptly to the Animal Control
Division. Upon proof of prior license and vaccination, there shall
be issued a new registration and tag upon the payment of one dollar
($1.00). The Animal Control Manager shall enter the number of the
replacement tag on the immunization certificate delivered when the
original County animal license and rabies vaccination tag was issued.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Registration Tag – Replacement After
Loss” to “County Animal License and Rabies Vaccination
Tag – Replacement After Loss.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §300.060, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
No person shall use or possess any County animal license or
rabies vaccination tag not authorized by the Animal Control Manager,
or use or possess a stolen or counterfeit County animal license or
rabies vaccination tag.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Registration Tag – Unauthorized
Use Prohibited” to “County Animal License and Rabies Vaccination
Tag – Unauthorized Use Prohibited.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §400.010, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016]
A.
Impoundment, General. The Animal Control Manager
or other persons designated by the Animal Control Manager shall have
the power to impound animals as follows:
1.
Dogs and cats not wearing a valid, unexpired County animal license
and rabies vaccination tag for which proof of a current license or
rabies vaccination cannot be provided;
2.
All dogs and cats, licensed and unlicensed, not securely confined
in an enclosed place, while in heat or estrus;
3.
All dogs, cats or other animals which are at large in the unincorporated
area of the County and are immediately pursued by an Animal Control
Officer regardless of whether the animal is at large at the time it
is apprehended;
4.
Animals that have been declared dangerous animals that are not
confined in the manner prescribed in this Chapter or which have at
any time escaped from confinement as required by this Chapter whether
or not the animals are so confined at the time of impounding;
5.
Dogs and cats not vaccinated against rabies;
6.
Unconfined animals in quarantined areas;
7.
Dogs, cats or other animals that have bitten a person or domestic
animal;
8.
Animals for whom there is no responsible person who can provide
adequate food, water, shelter or veterinary care; and
9.
Animals the owners of which have voluntarily and intentionally
relinquished control to the Animal Control Manager.
B.
Place Of Impoundment. All animals collected shall
be confined at the Animal Control Center; provided, however, that
during an emergency period when facilities are inadequate at the Center,
the Animal Control Manager is authorized to make provisions for adequate
housing and care elsewhere.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §§400.020,
400.050, 12-22-2004; Ord.
No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
A.
Any dog or cat which bites, injures or attacks any person or domesticated
animal, has been exposed to or is suspected of being exposed to rabies
or being bitten by a rabid animal shall be confined for isolation
and placed under observation for a ten (10) day period immediately
following the bite, injury or attack and shall be handled under procedures
established by the Animal Control Manager. For animals with current
rabies vaccination records, the Animal Control Manager is authorized
to allow the animal to be securely confined by the owner, to be confined
by a veterinarian of the owner's choice or to be impounded at
the Animal Control Center. For all other animals, the Animal Control
Manager is authorized to provide for such isolation and observation
at the Animal Control Center, at a hospital or facility of a private
veterinary practitioner having the staff and equipment to handle such
cases for a period of not less than ten (10) days.
B.
Should the Animal Control Manager authorize observation at a hospital
or facility of a private veterinary practitioner, the owner of a cat
or dog may request such treatment by application to the Animal Control
Manager. Such application shall contain the name and address of the
facility where the isolation and observation will be done, a description
of the dog or cat and any other information required by the Animal
Control Manager for his/her records. Release will be ordered by the
Animal Control Manager upon verification by the veterinarian that
there were no clinical symptoms of rabies on the tenth day after the
bite. Verification shall include proof of possession of a valid current
County animal license and rabies vaccination.
C.
Any warm-blooded animal, other than a puppy, kitten, dog or cat,
running at large that has bitten, injured or attacked any person or
any other animal other than a puppy, kitten, dog or cat that is suspected
of being afflicted with rabies may be destroyed immediately for the
purpose of being tested for rabies at the direction of the Animal
Control Manager.
D.
All animals collected and confined shall be properly housed, fed,
watered and cared for. The Animal Control Division shall provide for
all necessary facilities, food, water, vehicles and other equipment
required to carry out the provisions of this Chapter. Where confinement
for isolation and observation is mandatory, the owner may request
that certain protective sera or other medication be administered to
his/her animal. This may be done for a fee, determined by the Animal
Control Manager, which is payable in advance.
E.
Except as otherwise provided herein or as ordered by the Animal Control
Manager, no animal that has bitten a human or a domesticated animal
will be finally released unless procedures approved by the Animal
Control Manager to have it spayed or neutered and microchipped for
identification have been followed.
F.
A non-vaccinated dog or cat shall be taken up impounded for a period
of ten (10) days from the date of the bite, injury or attack. If,
within the ten (10) day period, the dog or cat does not develop or
manifest signs of rabies, the owner, upon the payment of a seventy-five
dollar ($75.00) service fee for the observation period, may redeem
it. Animals may be held for the owner for a maximum of two (2) days
past the observation period for a fee of fifteen dollars ($15.00)
per day if the owner makes such a request. If no such request for
extra holding time is made, the animal may be disposed of in any way
provided for in this Chapter at the discretion of the Animal Control
Manager.
G.
If any animal develops signs of rabies, it shall be the duty of the
Animal Control Manager to cause the animal to be examined by a veterinarian.
If the veterinarian confirms the presence of signs of rabies, the
brain of the animal will be submitted for laboratory diagnosis. Any
other warm-blooded animal in which rabies is suspected, which bites,
injures or attacks any person or owned animal, shall be impounded
and humanely euthanized; and the brain or other structures will be
submitted for rabies diagnosis.
H.
There shall be a seventy-five dollar ($75.00) service fee for the
observation period, for the collection by an Animal Control Officer
for observation of any animal pursuant to this Section.
I.
It shall be unlawful to fail to pay any fee incurred in association
with the animal being impounded.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Observation Period – Disposition
of Animals” to “Rabies Quarantine, Observation Period
and Disposition of Animals.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §400.030, 12-22-2004]
Upon the collection and holding of any animal there shall be
kept in the records of the Animal Control Center a detailed description
of each animal. The Animal Control Center shall make reasonable effort
to locate and notify the owner from whom the animal was taken, if
the owner can be determined. These records shall be available for
public inspection.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §§400.040,
500.030, 12-22-2004; Ord.
No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
A.
No person shall permit an animal to run at large in the unincorporated
area of Jefferson County.
B.
The Animal Control Manager or his/her agents shall take up and hold
any animal that may be found running or being at large in the County
contrary to the provisions of this Chapter or any lawful order made
pursuant thereto. Animals found running at large may be pursued across,
or taken upon, unenclosed private property, unless specifically prohibited
by the property owner.
C.
The provisions of this Section are not intended, nor shall they be
construed, to abrogate or modify any other provisions of the law pertaining
to trespass or the right and privileges pertaining to the ownership
or possession of real or personal property.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Running At Large” to “Running
At Large Prohibited.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §400.060, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
A.
Licensed animals impounded and confined in the Animal Control Center,
or at a place otherwise designated by the Animal Control Manager,
may be redeemed by the owner upon the furnishing of adequate proof
that the animal was licensed at the time of confinement and upon the
payment of all fees to the Animal Control Division. Unlicensed animals
impounded and confined at the Animal Control Center may be released
to the owner by having them licensed and upon the payment of all fees.
B.
A service fee of twenty-five dollars ($25.00) for the first day (or
any part thereof) is established for animals impounded at the Center
as a reasonable and customary expense of capturing and impounding
the animal. In the event the animal is impounded a second (2nd) time,
the service fee shall be fifty dollars ($50.00) for the first day
(or any part thereof) and shall increase by twenty-five dollars ($25.00)
incrementally for each subsequent impoundment. A daily boarding fee
of fifteen dollars ($15.00) for the second and each subsequent day
any animal is impounded is established for the reasonable daily care
of the animal.
C.
The Animal Control Manager shall make a reasonable effort to identify
and notify the owner or possessor of the animal of its impoundment
and the procedure for its redemption.
D.
After a seven (7) day redemption period for stray animals and ten
(10) days for owned animals, the animal may be disposed of by any
method provided by this Chapter which includes:
1.
Adoption. Release of the animal to any person
desiring to adopt an animal, provided that the person adopting an
animal complies with all of the requirements of this Chapter for the
adoption of an animal, including the payment of a twenty dollar ($20.00)
adoption fee, plus contractual veterinary service fees associated
with the adoption. Any person adopting or redeeming an animal must
comply with the terms of the adoption contract, meet the spay/neuter
and rabies vaccination requirements imposed by State law, the Animal
Care Facilities Act, and this Chapter, and meet any veterinary medical
appointments associated with the adoption of the animal and scheduled
through the Animal Control Division. Failure to comply with the terms
of the adoption contract constitutes a violation of this Chapter.
2.
Rescue. Release the animal to a rescue organization
that is licensed by the State of Missouri Department of Agriculture
or by Jefferson County upon reimbursement of costs of any vaccinations
and medical expenses.
3.
Euthanasia. Humane euthanization provided that
no owner is known; reasonable efforts to contact a known owner have
failed or the known owner has been contacted but has failed to redeem
the animal within the minimum holding period required by this Chapter.
4.
No animal shall be released for adoption or rescue until said
animal has successfully passed a temperament test performed by the
Animal Control Division. Any temperament test so performed shall be
pursuant to the protocols adopted by the Animal Control Division following
approval by the Director.
E.
The holding periods established by this Section shall not apply to
feral animals or owner-relinquished animals, except that the Animal
Control Division will, when kennel space is available for incoming
quarantine, stray and at-large animals, hold feral animals and owner-relinquished
animals for a period of three (3) consecutive days.
F.
No owner, harborer or keeper shall be relieved of liability for payment
of any fee incurred as may be prescribed by law by virtue of an animal
being euthanized or abandoned at the Animal Control Center. Is shall
be unlawful to fail to pay any fee incurred in association with the
impoundment of an animal.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Redemption of Animals – Procedure
and Fees For Registered and Unregistered Dogs or Cats” to “Disposition
of Animals – Procedure and Fees For Licensed and Unlicensed
Animals.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §400.070, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016]
Collected, unidentified animals which are brought to the Animal
Control Center by an Animal Control Officer in a visibly sick condition
due to canine distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, advanced demodectic
or sarcoptic mange or other serious communicable disease or are severely
injured, which in a veterinarian's judgment renders the animal
beyond a reasonable hope of recovery, may be ordered destroyed at
once by the veterinarian or, in his/her absence, by the Animal Control
Manager. Sick animals whose ownership can be determined shall be placed
in isolation until the owner can be contacted for instructions as
to destruction, treatment or release to a private veterinarian for
treatment. Release shall be made only after all requirements of this
Chapter, including licensing and payment of fees, are satisfied.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §400.080, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016]
No animal impounded for any reason in the Animal Control Center
shall be released until the animal is microchipped for identification.
If the animal has not been microchipped, the person wanting to redeem
or adopt the animal shall pay in advance a fee of thirty-five dollars
($35.00) to have the animal microchipped. No animal shall be released
to any person who refuses to pay the fee in advance. No animal over
three (3) months of age shall be adopted until the animal has been
spayed or neutered and the cost of said spay or neuter is paid as
part of the adoption fee in advance of the adoption.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §400.090, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
A.
An owner, harborer or keeper seeking to redeem an animal from the
Animal Control Center must appear in person to pick up the animal.
B.
The first time an animal is impounded by the Animal Control Division,
the owner, harborer or keeper, if he/she can be identified, will be
contacted to pick up their animal. The owner may request the animal
be released without having the animal spayed or neutered. The animal
will not be released at that time until it has been vaccinated against
rabies, licensed with the County, microchipped (if the animal has
not previously been vaccinated and/or microchipped) and the appropriate
impoundment fees have been paid as herein provided. The owner shall
also pay the cost of vaccination, licensing and microchipping, if
applicable.
C.
The second time an animal is impounded, the owner will be contacted
to pick up their animal. The animal will not be released until all
fees are paid as set out herein. Additionally, if the owner cannot
provide proof that the animal has been spayed or neutered, the animal
shall be spayed or neutered and the owner shall pay an additional
fee of seventy-five dollars ($75.00) for the cost of such service.
Additionally, if the animal is not currently licensed and vaccinated
against rabies, then the animal shall be vaccinated and licensed,
and the owner shall pay the cost of such vaccination and licensing
in advance.
D.
Each additional time that an animal is impounded by the Animal Control
Division, the owner will be contacted to pick up the animal. The owner
shall pay the impoundment costs plus costs of vaccination and licensing,
if applicable, before the animal will be released.
E.
Any animal for which the owner has refused to comply with the requirements
of this Section may be disposed of as provided for in this Chapter,
including humane euthanization.
F.
No owner, harborer or keeper shall be relieved of liability for payment
of any fee incurred as may be prescribed by law by virtue of an animal
being euthanized or abandoned at the Animal Control Center. Is shall
be unlawful to fail to pay any fee incurred in association with the
impoundment of an animal.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Process to Redeem Animals Caught At large
and Confined in the Animal Control Center” to “Process
to Redeem Animals Impounded by the Animal Control Division.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §500.010, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
A.
Any animal that bites, attacks or injures a person or other domesticated
animal, or displays high degrees of aggressive behavior as witnessed
by an Animal Control Officer, may be declared potentially dangerous
or dangerous animals by the Animal Control Division.
B.
Duties Of The Animal Control Manager. The Animal
Control Manager shall have the authority to issue a potentially dangerous
animal declaration or dangerous animal declaration to the owner of
any animal found to meet those respective criteria as established
in this Chapter for a dangerous animal or potentially dangerous animal;
and shall establish and maintain the Potentially Dangerous Animal
Registry and the Dangerous Animal Registry.
C.
Potentially Dangerous Animal Declaration. When conditions,
as defined in this Chapter exist sufficiently to warrant an animal
to be declared potentially dangerous, the Animal Control Manager may
present to the owner, harborer or keeper of said animal a written
declaration of having determined the animal to be potentially dangerous.
Said declaration shall inform the owner, harborer or keeper of said
animal of the conditions that have contributed to the animal being
declared potentially dangerous; shall inform the owner, harborer or
keeper of said animal that any future violation of this Chapter will
result in the animal immediately being declared a dangerous animal,
as defined in this Chapter; and shall enumerate the conditions the
owner, harborer or keeper shall comply with to retain possession of
the animal. The Animal Control Manager shall list the animal on the
Potentially Dangerous Animal Registry.
D.
Dangerous Animal Declaration. When conditions, as
defined in this Chapter exist sufficiently to warrant an animal to
be declared dangerous, the Animal Control Manager may present to the
owner, harborer or keeper of said animal a written declaration of
having determined the animal to be a dangerous animal. Said declaration
shall inform the owner, harborer or keeper of said animal of the conditions
that have contributed to the animal being declared dangerous; shall
enumerate the conditions the owner, harborer or keeper shall comply
with to retain possession of the animal; and shall inform the owner,
harborer or keeper of the dangerous animal that failure to comply
with the ownership criteria pursuant to this Chapter will result in
the immediate forfeiture of the animal. The Animal Control Manager
shall list the animal on the Dangerous Animal Registry.
E.
Criteria For Possession Of An Animal Declared Dangerous. The owner, harborer or keeper of an animal determined to be a dangerous
animal may retain possession of said animal provided the owner, harborer
or keeper presents to the Animal Control Manager sufficient evidence
of the following criteria:
1.
The animal must be kenneled inside the residence of the owner,
harborer or keeper or be in a proper enclosure for a dangerous animal,
as defined in this Chapter, and the posting of a notice, acceptable
to the Animal Control Manager, conspicuously visible to the public
at each entrance to the premises where the enclosure is located and
on each side of the enclosure. In addition, each such notice shall
conspicuously display a warning symbol that informs those who cannot
read of the presence of a dangerous animal.
2.
Proof of a policy of liability insurance in the amount and form
set out below:
a.
A policy of liability insurance, such as homeowners insurance,
issued by an insurer qualified to do business in the State of Missouri
in the amount of at least one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000.00),
insuring the owner, harborer or keeper for any personal injuries inflicted
by the dangerous animal. Any such policy shall specifically reference
the covered animal.
b.
Such insurance policy shall provide that no cancellation of
the policy will be made unless ten (10) days written notice is first
given to the Animal Control Manager. The owner, harborer or keeper
must maintain an effective and unexpired insurance policy with the
coverage and in the amounts specified in this Section at all times.
3.
Proof that the animal has been issued a current County animal
license, been vaccinated against rabies, has been spayed or neutered,
and has been micro-chipped for identification.
F.
The dangerous animal must be muzzled and restrained by a substantial
chain or leash not longer than four (4) feet and under physical restraint
of a responsible person who is capable of controlling the animal.
The muzzle shall be made in a manner that will not cause injury to
the animal or interfere with its vision or respiration but shall prevent
it from biting any person or animal. Such animals shall not be tethered
or leashed to inanimate objects such as trees, posts or buildings.
G.
Exemptions To Declarations. Animals shall not be
declared dangerous if:
1.
The threat, injury, or damage was sustained by a person who,
at the time, was committing a willful trespass or other tort upon
the premises occupied by the owner of the animal or was tormenting,
abusing or assaulting the animal or has, in the past, been observed
or reported to have tormented, abused, or assaulted the animal or
was committing or attempting to commit a crime.
2.
Used by law enforcement officials for police work.
H.
Immediate Confiscation. Any dangerous animal shall
be immediately confiscated by an Animal Control Officer if the:
1.
Owner, harborer or keeper does not secure and maintain the liability
insurance coverage required by this Chapter;
2.
Animal is not maintained in the proper enclosure; or
3.
Animal is outside of the dwelling of the owner, harborer, or
keeper or outside of the proper enclosure and not muzzled and under
physical restraint of the responsible person.
I.
Ownership Forfeiture. The owner, harborer or keeper
of a dangerous animal shall forfeit ownership of said animal, and
the Animal Control Manager is hereby empowered to confiscate and destroy
the dangerous animal when:
J.
Owner's Right To Appeal. The owner, harborer
or keeper of an animal declared dangerous by the Animal Control Manager
may appeal the dangerous animal declaration pursuant to Chapter 536
of the Revised Statutes of the State of Missouri. An appeal does not
excuse the owner, harborer or keeper of an animal declared dangerous
from compliance with the requirements of the dangerous animal declaration.
K.
Rescinding Declarations. When evidence exists to
believe an animal previously declared dangerous no longer poses a
threat to public safety, the Animal Control Manager may rescind the
declaration and remove the animal from the potentially dangerous or
dangerous animal registry.
L.
Failure to comply with the requirements of this Section shall constitute a violation of this Chapter. The Animal Control Manager may, upon obtaining a warrant, seize and impound any animal found in violation of the requirements of the dangerous animal declaration pursuant to Section 215.500 of this Chapter.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Dangerous Dogs – Registration, Enclosures,
Liability Insurance or Bonding Requirement to Spay or Neuter and Microchip,
Confiscation and Destruction” to “Dangerous Animal Declarations.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §500.020, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
No person who owns harbors, or keeps an animal shall permit
such animal to bite or attack another human being or domesticated
animal. This Section shall not apply to the use of animals by law
enforcement agencies or to the lawful defense of person or property.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Permitting Dogs To Bite or Attach Prohibited
-- Exceptions” to “Permitting Animals To Bite or Attach
Prohibited -- Exceptions.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §500.040, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016]
No person shall keep or breed animals for the purpose of fighting,
nor enter an animal in a fight.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §500.050, 12-22-2004]
It is unlawful for any service animal trained to guide or assist
a person with a disability, including those persons with mobility,
visual or hearing impairments, when actually accompanying this person
with a disability, to be prohibited admission to any place or vehicle
which a person with a disability has a lawful right to enter. The
service animal must wear the proper restraints and/or harness. At
all times, the service animal or person must have in or on their possession
identification of training as a service animal, for the service animal.
The service animal is allowed to accompany the person with a disability
in all areas of public accommodation open to other patrons. The service
animal shall not be separated from the person with a disability that
it serves.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §500.060, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016]
Upon request by the Animal Control Manager, an owner who is
either passing through the County or who has been a resident thereof
for less than thirty (30) days and who possesses or controls dogs
or cats shall show evidence of the animal having received rabies immunization,
of any approved type, which would produce an immunization period covering
the time in Jefferson County. If the imported animal remains in Jefferson
County more than thirty (30) days, the owner shall procure a Jefferson
County animal license in accordance with the provisions of this Chapter.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §600.010, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]; Ord. No. 19-0202, 3-27-2019]
A.
No animal shall be tied, hitched or fastened to any rope, chain or
cord that is directly attached to the animal's neck. Animals
that must be tied, hitched or fastened to restrain them must wear
a properly fitted collar or harness, not of the choker type, pinch
type, or reversed-spike type. The tying device shall be attached to
the animal's collar or harness and shall be at least ten (10)
feet in length and free from obstruction or items which may cause
the tying device to become caught, wrapped or twisted or prevent the
animal from reaching food, water or shelter, but must be short enough
to prevent the animal from leaving the property of its owner, sidewalk,
right-of-way or any other place a human being would have a legal right
to be.
B.
All areas where an animal is confined or tethered shall be kept in
a clean, healthy and sanitary living environment. The person responsible
for the animal shall sanitize the area regularly to prevent health,
odor or sanitation problems.
C.
All animals shall be treated humanely and shall not be beaten, tormented,
or overworked, except that reasonable force may be used to drive off
vicious animals. No animal shall be induced or encouraged to perform
through the use of chemical, mechanical, electrical or manual devices
which may cause physical injury or suffering.
D.
All animals shall be provided adequate food, water, veterinarian
care and control to ensure the proper health, welfare and safety of
the animals. Dogs and cats must be provided adequate shelter, and
all other animals must be provided shelter appropriate to their species,
when exposed to the elements for more than fifteen (15) minutes. During
periods of extreme temperatures or weather conditions, all shelters
must provide some form of suitable insulation as appropriate for the
specific species, breed, health, age and condition of the animal being
sheltered.
E.
All animals shall be maintained or transported in a manner that is
consistent with preserving the animal's health, safety and welfare.
No owner, harborer or keeper of any animal shall leave an animal inside
the confines of a vehicle during periods of heat in excess of ninety
degrees Fahrenheit (90° F.) or colder than forty degrees Fahrenheit
(40° F.) for periods of time longer than ten (10) minutes, without
having made climate control provisions for the animal in order to
maintain the animal's good health. Inadequate shelter may be
indicated by the shivering of the domestic animal due to cold weather
for a continuous period of ten (10) minutes or by symptoms of frostbite
or hypothermia. During periods of outdoor temperature colder than
forty degrees Fahrenheit (40° F.), the domestic animal's shelter
must contain bedding material sufficient to retain the domestic animal's
normal body heat. No owner, harborer or keeper shall transport an
animal in an open truck or vehicle bed without restraint sufficient
to ensure the safety of the animal.
F.
It shall be unlawful for any owner, harborer, keeper or any other
person to commit any act of animal neglect, animal abuse, or animal
cruelty as defined in this Chapter.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Tethering, confinement, Transportation
and Treatment of Dogs and Cats” to “Tethering, confinement,
Transportation and Treatment of Animals; Animal Neglect, Abuse, or
Cruelty Prohibited.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §600.020, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
It shall be unlawful for any person to leave unattended, abandon
or dump an animal on the real estate of another unless the person
leaving such animal has express permission of the owner of the real
estate. It shall be unlawful for any person to leave unattended, abandon
or dump an animal on public property, streets or roads or the right-of-way
thereof. Failing to redeem an animal impounded at the Animal Control
Center shall constitute abandonment on the part of the owner, harborer
or keeper of the animal. Leaving, abandoning or dumping an animal
in violation of the provisions of this Section shall be in violation
of this Chapter. Each animal abandoned shall constitute a separate
violation for each such animal left, abandoned or dumped.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Dumping and Abandoning Cats and Dogs”
to “Dumping and Abandoning Animals Prohibited.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §600.030, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
All dangerous wild animals, as defined by this Chapter, shall
be registered with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Department
pursuant to 578.023, RSMo., and said animals must be licensed with
the Animal Control Division. No person shall own, harbor or keep any
raccoon, skunk, fox, squirrel or other wild animal indigenous to the
State of Missouri pursuant to State and Federal law.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Dangerous Wild Animal Registration”
to “Dangerous Wild Animal Registration – Wildlife Ownership
Prohibited.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §600.040, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016]
It shall be the duty of every animal owner, harborer or keeper
to immediately remove any feces left by the animal on any sidewalk,
gutter, roadside ditch, street, park or other public area or on any
private property used by the animal for depositing any feces, other
than property owned by the owner, harborer or keeper. No feces or
animal waste shall be deposited in any natural storm water drainage
area or in any manmade storm water system that will result in the
waste being carried to any stream or watershed in the County. It shall
be the duty of every animal owner, harborer or keeper to keep clean
and sanitary the area where animals are kept. Accordingly, animal
owners harborers or keepers are responsible to ensure that regular
maintenance is performed on all yards, pens, kennels or other enclosures
where animals are kept so that these areas remain free from accumulated
debris or animal feces.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §600.070, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
No person shall entice any animal out of the enclosure of the
owner harborer or keeper thereof or molest or seize any animal while
lawfully held or led by any responsible person, except that no person
shall refuse to surrender any animal that has bitten a person to an
Animal Control Officer, Law Enforcement Officer or agent of the County
for isolation and observation as required by this Chapter. No person
shall entice in any manner any animal into a violation of the Ordinances
of Jefferson County, Missouri.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Enticing Dog or Cat – Refusal To
Surrender” to “Enticing Animals and Refusal To Surrender
Prohibited.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §600.090, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016]
No person shall knowingly interfere with any person appointed
under this Chapter in the performance of such person's official
duties as prescribed by this Chapter or as provided by State law to
include providing false statements, failing to comply with the lawful
instructions of an officer, hindering the capture of an animal, hindering
the loading of an animal in an Animal Control Vehicle, or hindering
the operation of an Animal Control Vehicle.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §600.100, 12-22-2004]
No person shall refuse to deliver an animal to an Animal Control
Officer when requested to do so under impoundment provisions of this
Chapter.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §600.110, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016]
No person shall remove an animal from the custody of an Animal
Control Officer, an animal control vehicle, or the Animal Control
Center by force, deceit or other manner, when such animal has been
impounded by such officer under the provisions of this Chapter or
State animal welfare laws unless such person has first obtained the
express consent from such officer for removal.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §700.010, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016[1]]
A.
The Animal Control Manager, any Animal Control Officer employed by
the division and any Peace Officer of the Jefferson County Sheriff's
Department shall have the authority to enforce all provisions of this
Chapter including the issuance of a summons for violations of any
provision of this Chapter.
[1]
Editor’s Note: Ord. No. 16-0262 also changed the title
of this Section from “Enforcement of Order” to “Enforcement
of Ordinance.”
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §700.020, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016]
The form of the summons may be by uniform citation as set out
in Rule 37 of the Missouri Rules of court or by summons form as indicated
in the Ordinance creating the County Municipal Court.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §700.030, 12-22-2004; Ord. No. 16-0262 §2, 5-12-2016]
A.
A violation of any provision of this Chapter shall be a misdemeanor,
carrying a punishment not to exceed imprisonment in the County Jail
for more than one (1) year or a fine of more than one thousand dollars
($1,000.00), or both such fine and imprisonment, pursuant to Section
66.080, RSMo.
B.
In each instance where an owner, harborer or keeper seeks to redeem his/her animal caught at large pursuant to Section 215.280 of this Chapter, the County Counselor or Prosecuting Attorney shall recommend a minimum fine, in addition to any other recommendations, as set forth below:
1.
First offense under 215.280 — fine not less than twenty-five
dollars ($25.00).
2.
Second offense under 215.280 — fine not less than fifty
dollars ($50.00).
3.
Third offense under 215.280 — fine not less than one hundred
dollars ($100.00).
4.
Fourth offense under 215.280 — fine not less than two
hundred dollars ($200.00).
5.
Fifth offense under 215.280 — fine not less than four
hundred dollars ($400.00).
6.
Sixth and any subsequent offense — fine not less than
eight hundred dollars ($800.00).
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §700.040, 12-22-2004]
This Chapter is intended to be supplementary to other provisions
or remedies authorized or prescribed by law and shall be liberally
construed to the fullest extent permitted by law to effectuate the
broad remedial purpose for which it is intended.
[Ord. No. 12-22-2004A §700.050, 12-22-2004]
With or without the initiation of criminal prosecution or any
other legal proceedings, the County may apply to the appropriate court
for injunctive relief, which would require the correction or abatement
of any violation of this Chapter. The initiation or exhaustion of
one (1) of these enforcement proceedings shall not be a prerequisite
to the initiation of any other of these enforcement proceedings. Different
types of enforcement proceedings may be pursued concurrently.
[Ord. No. 16-0262 § 2, 5-12-2016]
Jefferson County Animal Control Officers shall be permitted
to enter onto property for the purpose of enforcement of this Chapter
to the extent allowed by law.
[Ord. No. 16-0262 § 2, 5-12-2016]
Jefferson County Animal Control Officers may apply for and execute warrants pursuant to Section 105.060 of the Code of Ordinances of Jefferson County, Missouri, and the warrant shall set the place and time of a disposition hearing before the court through which the warrant was issued, within thirty (30) days of the filing of the warrant for the purpose of granting immediate disposition of the animal impounded. At such disposition hearing, the owner of the animal seized under the warrant will be afforded the opportunity to relinquish ownership of the animal or post a security equal to the estimated cost of care for the seized animals for thirty (30) days. Relinquishing ownership shall not mitigate the original violation or violations that culminated in the seizure.
[Ord. No. 16-0262 § 2, 5-12-2016]
A.
A person commits the crime of tampering with a witness if, with purpose
to induce a witness or a prospective witness to disobey a subpoena
or other legal process, or to absent himself or avoid subpoena or
other legal process, or to withhold evidence, information or documents,
or to testify falsely, he or she:
B.
A person commits the crime of "victim tampering" if, with purpose
to do so, he/she prevents or dissuades or attempts to prevent or dissuade
any person who has been a victim of any crime or a person who is acting
on behalf of any such victim from:
C.
This Section shall only apply to investigations and prosecutions
arising from alleged violations of this Chapter.
[Ord. No. 16-0262 § 2, 5-12-2016]
A.
No person shall commit an act of assault of an Animal Control Officer.
A person commits the offense of assault of an Animal Control Officer,
if:
[Ord. No. 16-0262 § 2, 5-12-2016]
A.
It shall be unlawful for any person to make a false declaration in
the unincorporated area of Jefferson County, Missouri. A person makes
a false declaration if:
1.
With the purpose of misleading an Animal Control Officer of
Jefferson County, Missouri, in the performance of his/her duty, the
person makes a false statement about a material fact, believing or
having good cause to believe it is not true, or makes a false statement
on a form which declares that false statements are punishable by law;
or
2.
With the purpose of misleading an Animal Control Officer of
Jefferson County, Missouri, in the performance of his/her duty, a
person makes or encourages another to rely on a writing, sample, specimen,
map, boundary mark, identification card, or other object the person
knows is false, forged, altered, or otherwise not authentic.
[Ord. No. 16-0262 § 2, 5-12-2016]
A.
It shall be unlawful to commit the offense of false impersonation.
A person commits the offense of false impersonation if he/she:
1.
Falsely represents himself/herself to be an Animal Control Officer
of Jefferson County. Missouri with purpose to induce another to submit
to his/her pretended official authority or to rely upon his/her pretended
official acts; and
