[HISTORY: Adopted by the Town of Blackstone as indicated in article
histories. Amendments noted where applicable.]
[Adopted 4-26-1993 ATM by Art. 21]
The keeping of any feral animal, or other animal that ordinarily exists
in a wild state, shall require a permit from the Board of Health. A "feral
animal" is defined as an animal in a wild state that ordinarily exists in
a domesticated state.
A hearing shall be held by the Board before granting such a permit.
The Board may define specific conditions relative to the keeping of such an
animal as well as the maximum number of animals permitted.
A permit shall be for a maximum of one year from the date of approval;
however, the Board reserves the right to issue a permit for lesser periods
of time.
Permit renewal shall require a new hearing before the Board. Prior to
the renewal hearing, the applicant must notify all abutters by certified mail
at least seven days in advance of hearing date.
Anyone nurturing, feeding or otherwise sustaining wild or feral animals
shall be required to obtain a permit. This shall not apply to the feeding
of birds.
The exhibition or educational demonstration of wildlife species shall
be allowable; however, the Health Department shall have the authority to inspect
the conditions and conduct of such events to evaluate public safety and the
maintenance of satisfactory sanitary conditions. If, in the judgment of the
Board of Health, the exhibition compromises standards of safety or sanitation,
the Board of Health shall order immediate corrective action or the termination
of the activity.
The Board reserves the right to revoke or suspend any permit issued
under the provisions of this regulation.
If, in the judgment of the Board of Health, any animals permitted under
this regulation present an immediate threat to public health, the Board of
Health may order the animal(s) to be immediately removed until the Board convenes
a hearing. The expense of capture and confinement shall be the responsibility
of the permit holder. A hearing must be held within 10 days of the removal
order.
Anyone who keeps such an animal without a permit shall be responsible
for all costs associated with the capture and confinement of the animal. The
final disposition of such an animal shall be determined by the Board of Health.
Pet stores must obtain a permit from the Board of Health for the keeping
of any animals.
