HomeMy Public PortalAboutOrdinance No. 810-97 01-28-1997 ORDINANCE NO. 810-97
AN ORDINANCE REVISING AND RESTATING THE ORDINANCES
OF THE CITY OF RICHLAND HILLS, TEBAS CONCERNING
ANIMAL CONTROL; REPEALING THE E%ISTING CHAPTER 2
"ANIMAL CONTROL" OF THE RICHLAND HILLS CODE OF
ORDINANCES AND REPLACING SAID EBISTING CHAPTER 2 IN
ITS ENTIRETY WITH THE FOLLOWING NEW CHAPTER 2;
PROVIDING CERTAIN DEFINITIONS; PROVIDING FOR
ENFORCEMENT OF ANIMAL CONTROL REGULATIONS;
REGULATING ANIMALS RUNNING AT LARGE; REQUIRING
VACCINATIONS AND REGISTRATION OF ANIMALS;
REGULATING THE NUMBER OF ANIMALS WHICH MAY BE KEPT
AT ANY ONE ADDRESS; REGULATING THE CONDITIONS UNDER
WHICH ANIMALS ARE KEPT; REGULATING THE REEFING OF
GUARD DOGS; PROVIDING REGULATIONS FOR DANGEROUS
DOGS; PROVIDING FOR IMPOUNDMENT, RECLAMATION,
ADOPTION AND DISPOSITION OF ANIMALS, PROVIDING FOR
QUARANTINE AND RABIES CONTROL; PROHIBITING THE
REEFING OF CERTAIN DEFINED ANIMALS; REGULATING
COMMERCIAL BUSINESSES ASSOCIATED WITH ANIMALS,
REGULATING THE REEFING OF LARGE AND SMALL LIVESTOCK
AND THE CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH SUCH ANIMALS MAY BE
KEPT; PROVIDING REGULATIONS FOR PET CARE; PROVIDING
FOR AN ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER; PROVIDING CERTAIN
FEES IN CONNECTION WITH THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE
ORDINANCE, PROVIDING A SEVERABILITY CLAUSE;
PROVIDING A SAVING CLAUSE AND PROVIDING AN
• EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the City of Richland Hills, Texas, in the exercise of its
police power, has heretofore enacted and enforced ordinances regulating
the keeping and control of animals within the corporate limits of the
City; and
WHEREAS, increases in population density and in the number of
animals and pets being kept within the City have given rise to new
issues not adequately dealt with under the existing animal control
ordinances of the City; and
WHEREAS, advances in technology, veterinary science and general
knowledge of animals and their proper treatment have caused certain
portions of the existing ordinances of the City to be outdated and in
need of revision; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Richland Hills, Texas, has
heretofore charged the Animal Shelter Advisory Board with studying the
pre-existing ordinance requirements in the City and recommending certain
changes and revisions to the existing ordinances to bring these
requirements up to date; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has conducted a joint workshop with the
Animal Shelter Advisory Board to discuss these and additional suggested
changes; and
WHEREAS, the Animal Shelter Advisory Board has made its final
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 1
recommendations to the City Council; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Richland Hills, Texas,
• after studying the problems and issues raised and the recommendations of
the Animal Shelter Advisory Board, finds and determines that the repeal
of the existing animal control chapter and the replacement thereof with
the following new animal control chapter will be a valid exercise of the
police power of the City and will promote the health, safety, and
general welfare of the citizens of the City and the animals owned by
them.
NOW, T$EREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
RICHLAND HILLS, TEBAS:
I.
That Chapter 2 "ANIMAL CONTROL" of the Code of Ordinances, City of
Richland Hills, Texas, as amended, be hereby repealed in its entirety
and replaced with the following new Chapter 2 "ANIMAL CONTROL", which
new chapter shall hereafter be and read as follows:
•
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 2
CHAPTER 2
ANIMAL CONTROL
SECTION 1: DEFINITIONS
The following words, when used in this chapter, shall mean:
(1) Atl].ID~1 shall mean any living creature, including, but not limited
to: dogs, cats, cows, horses, birds, fish mammals, reptiles,
insects, fowls, and livestock, but specifically excluding human
beings.
(2) Animal Control shall mean the Animal Control Division of the City
of Richland Hills, Texas.
(3) Animal Control Officer shall mean any person designated by the
Chief of Police and the City Manager to enforce the provisions of
this section, and to supervise all aspects of animal control.
(4) Animal at large shall mean:
(a) off premises of owner shall mean any animal which is not
physically and continuously restrained by some person by means
of a leash or chain of proper strength and length to prevent
the animal from making unsolicited contact with any person or
any other animal.
• (b) On premises of owner shall mean any animal not completely
confined by a building, wall or fence of sufficient height,
strength or construction to restrain the animal, or secured to
the premises by a chain or leash of sufficient strength to
prevent the animal from escaping, and so arranged that the
animal will remain upon the premises when the leash is
stretched to its full length.
(5) ~ommerc~al stable shall mean a facility where a fee is charged to
house, pasture, or rent horses or other livestock.
(6) Dangerous animal shall mean an animal that:
(a) makes an unprovoked attack on a person that causes bodily
injury and occurs in a place other than an enclosure in which
the animal was being kept that was reasonably certain to
prevent the animal from leaving the enclosure on its own; or
(b) commits unprovoked acts in a place other than an enclosure in
which the animal was being kept and that was reasonably
certain to prevent the animal from leaving the enclosure on
its own and those acts cause a person to reasonably believe
that the animal will attack and cause bodily injury to that
person.
(7) Fowl shall mean any domesticated bird used as food, including but
not limited to, chickens or ducks.
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 3
(8) Guard doa shall mean all dogs which are professionally trained and
kept solely for the protection of persons and property
(residential, commercial or personal).
(9) Harborina shall mean the act of keeping and caring for an animal,
or of providing a premises to which the animal returns for food,
shelter or care for a period of ten days or longer.
(10) Livestock shall mean:
(a) Large livestock; horses or any member of the horse family,
including but not limited to: mules, donkeys, and ponies; and
all types of varieties of cattle, bulls, and all members of
the cow family.
(b) Small livestock; all types of domesticated sheep, goats,
ostrich, or emu.
(11) Non profit humane organization shall mean a organization that has
been granted non profit status under Section 501(c)(3) of the
Internal Revenue code, and has a mission promoting the humane
treatment of animals.
(12) Owner shall mean any person firm or corporation having title to any
animal; or a person who has, harbors, or keeps, or who causes or
permits to be harbored or kept an animal in their care or on their
premises.
(13) Remedial requirements where the Municipal Court or the Animal
• Control Officer finds against a person that is found to have owned,
kept or harbored an animal in violation of this chapter, the Court
or Animal Control Officer may place certain remedial requirements
upon such person. The remedial requirements may include one or more
of the following items:
(a) Leash and muzzle. The owner shall not permit the animal to go
outside the kennel or pen unless such animal is securely
leashed with a leash no longer than four (4) feet in length
which is in the physical control of at least one (1) person
with sufficient strength and dexterity to control the animal.
Such animal may not be leashed to an inanimate object such as
a tree, post or building. Additionally, such animal must be
muzzled by a muzzling device sufficient to prevent the animal
from biting persons or other animals.
(b) Confinement outdoors. The animal shall be securely confined in
an enclosed and locked pen or kennel, except when on a leash
and muzzled or when confined indoors. Such pen or kennel must
have secure sides and a secure top attached, or have sides
that measure at least eight feet (8') from the ground. The
structure must be locked with a key or combination lock if a
dangerous animal is within the structure. The structure must
have a secure bottom or f loor attached to the sides of the
structure or the sides of the structure must be embedded in
• the ground no less than two feet (2'). All erected structures
must comply with all zoning and building regulations. Such
structures must be adequately lighted and ventilated and kept
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 4
in a clean and sanitary condition.
(c) Relocation of confinement area. The owner may be required to
• relocate on their property the confinement area in which the
animal is kept so that the animal does not annoy, disturb, or
in some other manner offend the neighbors.
(d) Confinement indoors. The animal may not be kept on a porch,
patio, or in any part of the house or other structure that
will allow the animal to exit such building or structure on
its own volition. In addition no such animal may be kept in a
house or structure when the windows or screen doors are the
only obstacle preventing the animal from exiting the
structure.
(e) Restitution. The Court may require payment of restitution for
damages or injury caused by the animal.
(f) Training. The Court may require that the person and animal
engage in training necessary to eliminate the problem. The
Court may designate a specific training program to be followed
or utilized.
(g) Removal from the City. The Court may require the animal be
removed from the City.
(h) Prohibit animal ownership. The Court may prohibit the person
from acquiring and keeping within the City any other animal
for a period of time up to five (5) years. It may also require
the person to either sell, give away, or otherwise humanely
dispose of the animal at issue in the hearing.
(i) Spay or neuter. The Court may require that an animal which is
being returned to an owner or which an owner is being allowed
to keep within the City be spayed or neutered.
(j) Destruction. The Court may order that an animal shall be
humanely destroyed.
In requiring that remedial requirements be followed, the Court or
Animal Control Officer shall also state a time frame within which
the owner must comply with the required action. For good cause, the
time period to comply may be extended by the Court or Animal
Control Officer.
(14) secure enclosure shall mean a fenced area or structure that is:
(a) locked,
(b) capable of preventing entry by the general public, including
children,
(c) capable of preventing the escape or release of the animal,
• (d) clearly marked as containing a dangerous animal, and
ORDINANCE NO. 610-97 PAGE 5
(e) in conformance with the requirements for enclosures
established in this chapter.
(15) Wild animal shall mean:
(a} any poisonous or dangerous reptile including but not limited
to: poisonous frogs, lizards, or snakes, non-venomous snakes
capable of growing over six (6) feet in length, alligators,
crocodiles, or any other reptile capable of causing serious
injury or death, or raccoons or opossums, or,
(b) any other animal that can normally be found in a wild state
and not normally capable of being domesticated including but
not limited to: skunks, foxes, leopards, panthers, tigers,
lions, cougars, bobcats and lynxes.
SECTION 2: ENFORCEMENT OF ANIMAL CONTROL REGULATIONS
p,, ANTM_AL CONTROL OFFICER OR POLICE OFFICER TO ENFORCE REGULATIONS
Enforcement of this chapter shall be the responsibility of the
Animal Control Officer or any peace officer.
B, ANTM_AL CONTROL OFFICER TO ISSUE CITATIONS FOR VIOLATIONS
The animal control officer shall have the authority to issue
citations for any violations of this chapter. If the person being
cited is not present, the animal control officer may send the
citation to the alleged offender by registered or certified mail.
C. LJtyTTAWFUL TO INTERFERE WITH ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER
It shall be unlawful for any person to interfere with any Animal
Control Officer in the performance of their duties.
D. TAMpERTNG WITH VEHICLE, TRAPS, EQUIPMENT OR BUILDING
(1) It shall be unlawful for any person, without proper authority,
to turn out or release, or cause to be turned out or released,
or aid or abet the turning out or releasing of any animal from
any impoundment vehicle, trap or facility.
(2) It shall be unlawful to remove, damage or otherwise tamper
with any traps, equipment or impoundment facility belonging to
the City.
SECTION 3: ANIMALS AT LARGE
It shall be unlawful for any animal to be at large as is defined in
Section 1 of this chapter. Any animal confined within an automobile or
other vehicle of its owner shall not be deemed at large.
SECTION 4: ANIMAL VACCINATION AND REGISTRATION
• A. VACCINATION REQUIRED
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 6
All dogs and cats over four months of age must be vaccinated
annually against rabies with an anti-rabies vaccine approved by the
State of Texas and administered by a duly authorized veterinarian.
A metal rabies vaccination tag with the year of vaccination, a
certificate number, and the name, address and phone number of the
vaccinating veterinary clinic, must be securely attached to a
collar or harness that must be worn by the animal at all times. In
addition to the rabies vaccination tag, a paper certificate must be
issued stating the name of the owner, address of the owner,
description of the animal, the date of the vaccination, the number
of the rabies vaccination tag, the name, address and phone number
of the veterinary clinic, and the kind of vaccine used.
B. REGISTRATION REQUIRED
(1) No owner shall have within the city any dog or cat six months
of age or older unless such dog or cat is currently registered
with the City. A current registration certificate and a metal
registration tag with the month and year of expiration will be
issued by the City. The registration tag issued by the City,
must be affixed to a collar or harness that must be worn by
the animal at all times. No dog or cat shall be registered
without proof of current rabies vaccination.
(2) Application for initial issuance or renewal of each
registration must be made by the owner in writing or in
person, and accompanied by the appropriate fee from the fee
schedule. If the original current registration tag is lost or
destroyed, the owner may obtain a duplicate tag from the City
by paying the appropriate fee from the fee schedule. Dogs and
cats under the age of one (1) year shall be registered at the
sterilized fee. Animals may be exempted from the sterilization
or rabies vaccination provisions upon written recommendation
from a veterinarian that such alteration or vaccination would
be harmful or dangerous to the animal. Fee exempt registration
may be issued for the following:
(a) Police or sheriff's department dog, and
(b) Dogs trained to assist a hearing or visually impaired
person.
Eligibility for fee exempt registration does not relieve the
owner of any responsibility under other provisions of this
chapter.
(3) Registration certificates shall be renewed annually. The
registration shall be valid for a period of one (1) year from
the date of the rabies vaccination.
C. REGTS'rR_ATTON A1vD/OR VACCINATION CERTIFICATES ONLY VALID FOR A_NINLAL
TO WHICH ISSUED
Registration and/or vaccination certificates (and tags) shall be
• valid for the animal for which it was originally issued. If there
is a change of ownership of a registered dog or cat, the new owner
shall have the registration transferred to their name. Application
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 7
for such transfer shall be made to the City in writing or in
person, and accompanied by the appropriate fee from the fee
schedule.
p ~ C'TTV I~LAy REFUSE OR REVOKE ANIMAL REGISTRATION
The City may refuse to register an animal, or revoke a registration
issued to any person who has been convicted in a court of
competent jurisdiction in the State of Texas, or resides with any
person so convicted of any of the following:
(1) cruelty to animals as defined in the Texas Penal Code,
inhumane treatment, or neglect of an animal, or
(2) convicted of four (4) or more separate and distinct violations
of a animal control ordinance of a municipality in the State
of Texas, within any twelve (12) month period.
Any person denied such a registration may appeal the refusal.
E. *Jt~BER OF DOGS AND CATS ALLOWED PER ADDRESS
No person shall keep or harbor more than three (3) dogs and two (2)
cats, or three (3) cats and two (2) dogs on any residential lot or
tract in the City. For purposes of this section puppies and kittens
under three (3) months of age shall not be counted.
Any person, firm or corporation wishing to keep more than the above
mentioned number of animals and who does not possess a commercial
business permit, may apply for a multi pet permit. The permit, once
issued, shall be a defense to the terms of this section. The multi
pet permit may be issued provided the applicant meets all
provisions of this section and chapter. The permit shall be valid
for one year from date of issuance.
Upon inspection of the premises, the permit shall be issued if the
following conditions are met:
(1) the facility must be adequate for the number and type of
animals being kept.
(a) The facility must be of sufficient size to allow each
animal to move about freely. The size of the facility
shall be in proportion to the size of the individual
animal's height and weight.
(b) Adequate food and water must be provided so that all
animals being kept shall be maintained in good health and
free of malnutrition and/or dehydration.
(c) The premises shall be kept in a sanitary condition and
reasonably free of animal waste, parasites, insects and
flies that could be harmful to the animals health and/or
the health of the general public.
(2) The animals and facility must be kept free of odor or stench
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 8
which is offensive to a person of normal sensibilities;
(3) The animals must be maintained in a manner which does not pose
a danger to the health of the animals themselves or adjacent
animals;
(4) The animals must not cause noise which is offensive or
disturbing to a person of normal sensibilities on adjoining,
adjacent, or neighboring premises;
(5) The applicant or holder of the permit has not been issued
citations for violations of this chapter on two (2) or more
separate occasions, or animals covered by the permit have not
been impounded on two (2) or more separate occasions; and
(6) All animals must be licensed and vaccinated and must wear
current tags at all times in accordance with Article C; and
(7) The payment of the appropriate fee from the fee schedule.
Unannounced inspections may be conducted at any time, as frequently as
deemed necessary.
The multi pet permit may be revoked by the animal control officer if
upon investigation it is determined that the permit holder has failed to
adhere to any of the above conditions listed in this section. Once the
permit has been revoked, the person whose permit has been revoked, may
not reapply for a period of one year from the day of revocation.
Any person having such permit revoked, may appeal such revocation.
SECTION 5: GIIARD DOGS
All guard dogs shall be registered as guard dogs with the City.
Registration shall expire one year from the date of rabies vaccination.
The dog shall be issued a guard dog tag and ID collar, varying in color
from the City license tag or the dangerous dog tag, in place of a City
license tag. In addition to the other provisions of this chapter, the
owner of a guard dog shall:
(1) place the registration tag on a ID collar, identifying the dog as
a guard dog, which must be worn at all times,
(2) place warning signs, bearing letters not less than two (2) inches
in height, stating "GUARD DOG ON PREMISES" conspicuously around the
premises,
(3) the dog shall be kept in a secure enclosure as defined in section
1, except the guard dog sign shall be used in place of the
dangerous animal sign;
(4) allow inspection by the animal control officer, or any official of
the city, to insure compliance with the provisions of this section,
• and
(5) muzzle the dog at all times the dog is not within the secure
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 9
enclosure.
(6) Pay the appropriate fee from the fee schedule.
Any dog found at large wearing a guard dog collar and tag may be
destroyed by any peace officer, or any Animal Control Officer, in the
interest of public safety.
SECTION 6: IMPOUNDMENT OF ANIMALS
p,, ANTM_ALS WHICH MAY BE IMPOUNDED
(1) Cats and dogs not exhibiting evidence of being vaccinated or
registered, as described in Section 4 of this Chapter.
(2) Any animal infected or kept under conditions which could
endanger the public or animal health.
(3) Any animal that creates a nuisance.
(4) Any animal found at large as described in Section 3 of this
Chapter.
(5) Any animal treated in a manner determined by the animal
control officer, or any peace officer to be cruel or inhumane
as defined in section 42.09 of the penal code.
(6) Any animal that has bitten a human being, or needs to be
placed under rabies quarantine, as determined by the animal
control officer or any peace officer.
(7) Any animal violating any provision of this Chapter.
B, f`nNF'TNF.MFNT OF ANTMAL ON PREMISES OF ANOTHER
If any of the animals named in this chapter are found on the
premises of any person, the owner or occupant of the premises shall
have the right to confine such animal in a humane manner until the
animal control officer can be notified to come and impound such
animal. When so notified, it shall be the duty of an animal control
officer to have such animal impounded as herein provided. It shall
be unlawful for the owner, or any other person, to remove such
animal so confined.
C. PRIVATE PROPERTY
In the event the animal is on fenced private property, and is in
obvious physical distress due to illness, injury or any situation
of entanglement or entrapment that threatens the animal's life or
well being, and the owner or the owners representative cannot be
located, the animal control officer, or any peace officer may enter
the property, other than a dwelling, without a warrant, to relieve
the animal from the situation or remove the animal for medical
. treatment.
p. C'TTY TO ESTABLISH AN IMPOUNDMENT FACILITY
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 10
The City shall select and establish a place for impounding all
animals impounded under any provision of this chapter.
• E. ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER TO NOTIFY OWNER OF IMPOUNDED NI AL
Reasonable effort shall be made by an animal control officer to
contact the owner of any impounded animal which is wearing a
current registration tag; however, final responsibility for
location of an impounded animal is that of the owner.
F. REDE_MpTION OF IMPOUNDED ANIMALS BY OWNER
The owner may resume possession of any impounded animal upon
payment of impoundment fees, handling fees, and any veterinarian
bills incurred by animal control for the welfare of the animal and
upon compliance with vaccination and registration provisions of
this code, except as prohibited below:
(1) Disposition of animals impounded on the grounds of cruel or
inhumane treatment shall be determined by the court of
jurisdiction.
(2) If any animal is being held under quarantine or observation
for rabies, the owner shall not be entitled to possession
until it has been released from quarantine.
G. IMPOtTNDMENT FEES ND ANDLING C ARGES
(1) Impoundment fees are listed on the fee schedule by
classification, the classes are:
(a) Class A: Dogs and cats.
(b) Class B: Small livestock, such as: goats, sheep, lambs,
calves, foals, ostriches, emus and animals of
the same approximate size and weight, each
animal.
(c) Class C Large livestock, such as: cattle, horses,
ponies, mules, and animals of the same
approximate size and weight, each animal.
(d) Class D: Wild animals: For wild animals requiring
capture by division personnel.
(e) Class E: Other: Any other animal, fowl or reptile, each
animal.
(f) Class F: Dead animals: removal of a dead animal from
private property.
(2) Daily handling fees
. (a) A daily handling fee shall be charged for every night
that an animal is at the animal shelter. Said fee shall
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 11
be based upon the class of animal enumerated in paragraph
(1) above and is listed on the fee schedule.
(b) In addition to the daily handling fees, the owner of an
impounded animal will reimburse the City for any special
food or equipment, purchased or rented, to provide proper
care for the impounded animal.
(3) Observation fee for animals in quarantine:
(a) The owner of any dog or cat held in quarantine for
observation purposes shall pay the quarantine fee from
the fee schedule. This is in addition to any impoundment
fee.
(b) If, however, the victim was unlawfully trespassing on the
premises where the animal was being kept, and the animal
was in no violation of any part of this chapter, the
victim shall be responsible for the quarantine fee.
(4) Protective custody
Any animal may be placed under protective custody when the
owner of the animal has been arrested, hospitalized, is
missing or has died and there is no person present, sixteen
(16) years of age or older, who will assume the duties of
providing food, water, and shelter for such animal.
. (a) Any animal placed under protective custody will be held
for six (6) days, not counting days the animal shelter is
not open. If after the holding period is expired, no
arrangements have been made with the owner or the owners
agent, or after all reasonable attempts to contact the
owner or the owners agent have failed, the animal may be
disposed of as described in section H below.
(b) Animals held in protective custody will be subject to the
daily handling fee plus any impoundment fee or
veterinarian expense.
H. DISPOSAL OF IMPOUNDED ANIMALS
(1) Any animal, except wild animals, not reclaimed by the owner
may be humanely euthanized, placed for adoption, or be given
to a nonprofit humane organization, after being impounded for
ninety-six (96) hours, except that any animal wearing a
current registration and/or vaccination tag shall be impounded
for six (6) days. Weekends, Holidays or any other day upon
which the animal shelter is closed will not be included when
calculating the holding periods for impounded animals stated
above.
• (2) Any impounded wild animal, unless there is a reason to believe
it has an owner, may be immediately disposed of as may be
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 12
deemed appropriate by an Animal Control Officer.
(3) Any nursing baby animal impounded without the mother, or where
the mother cannot or refuses to provide nutritious milk, may
be immediately euthanized to prevent further suffering.
(4) Any litter born in the shelter to an impounded animal may be
disposed of at the end of the holding period of the mother.
(5) Any impounded animal that appears to the animal control
officer and at least one other credible witness, to be
suffering from extreme injury or illness may be euthanized
immediately
(6) An owner who no longer wishes responsibility for an animal, or
believes the animal to be in an ill or injured condition, may
sign a written waiver supplied by the Animal Control Officer
allowing the animal to be immediately disposed of, and pay the
appropriate fee from the fee schedule, provided that no warm
blooded animal that has bitten a human being shall be disposed
of before the expiration of the ten (10) day quarantine
period.
j , ~nPTTnTI nF 7MP0[JNDED ANTNLAT S
(1) any impounded dog or cat not wearing a registration tag may be
given up for adoption after ninety-six (96) hours, except
those under rabies quarantine. Any impounded dog or cat
wearing a registration tag may be placed for adoption on the
seventh (7th) day of confinement, excluding days the shelter
is not open.
(2) An individual may adopt a dog or cat from the City animal
shelter under the following conditions:
(a) The animal has been classified as adoptable by the Animal
Control Officer.
(b) The prospective adopter has proper facilities to care for
the animal.
(c) The prospective adopter obtains all necessary
vaccinations and registrations at their expense.
(d) The payment of the appropriate fee from the fee schedule,
plus cost incurred on item (c) above. The adopter of any
dog or cat must have it vaccinated, spayed, or neutered,
and obtain a license within thirty (30) days after
adoption, or the Animal Control Officer shall have the
right of immediate return of the animal to the animal
shelter, provided the Animal Control Officer shall allow
additional time in the case of dogs or cats less than six
(6) months of age.
( 3 ) The Animal Control Officer may refuse to allow a person to
adopt a dog or cat of when there is reason to believe:
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 13
(a) The person would not be able to obtain a registration
certificate under the restrictions of this chapter.
(b) The person would not have proper facilities to contain or
care for the animal, as required by this chapter.
(c) The person wants the dog or cat for the purpose of
resale, breeding or purposes other than pet ownership.
(d) The person would not be a suitable owner within the sole
discretion of the Animal Control Officer.
(e) The dog or cat would be a hazard to humans or other
animals.
SECTION 7: QUARANTINE AND RABIES CONTROL
A. ANT~AT CONTROL OFFICER CAN ORDER OUARRANTINE OF NIMALS
The Animal Control Officer shall have the authority to order the
quarantine of animals responsible for bite incidents, or suspected
of having any zoonotic disease considered to be a hazard to the
human population, or other animals. All animal bite reports shall
be investigated by animal control. The Animal Control Officer shall
direct the disposition of any animal suspected of being rabid or
having any other zoonotic disease considered to be hazardous to any
other animal or human being.
B. QUARANTINE OF ANIMALS WHICH HAVE BITTEN
• Every animal that bites a human or attacks another animal in an
unnatural manner, shall be immediately confined by the owner, who
shall promptly notify the Animal Control Officer of the place where
such animal is confined and the reason therefor. The owner shall
not permit the animal to come in contact with any other person or
animal. The owner shall surrender possession of such animal to the
Animal Control Officer on demand for supervised quarantine.
Supervised quarantine shall be at the animal shelter or a
veterinary hospital. The quarantine shall not be for less than ten
(10) days, not including the day of the bite. A release from
quarantine may be issued if a veterinarian determines that the
quarantined animal does not show the clinical signs of rabies.
Any veterinary hospital possessing any quarantined animal shall
immediately notify the Animal Control Officer if such animal
escapes, or becomes or appears to become sick, or dies; and, in
case of death of the animal while under quarantine, shall
immediately surrender the dead animal to the Animal Control Officer
for diagnostic purposes.
If the owner of a quarantined animal does not reclaim the animal
within four (4) days after the expiration of the quarantine period
the animal may be disposed of as described in section six 6 above.
C. KILLING OR REMOVING OF ANIMAL SUSPECTED OF RABIES OR PLACED UNDER
QUARANTINE FROM CITY UNLAWFUL
ORDINANCE NO. __$10-97 PAGE 14
Without permission of the Animal Control Officer, it shall be
unlawful for any person to kill or remove from the city limits any
animal that has bitten a person or other animal, or that is placed
• under quarantine, except when it is necessary to kill such animal
to protect the life of any person or other animal.
•
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 15
D. CnRrnCCFC nF DEAD ANIMALS SUSPECTED OF RABIES TO BE SURRENDERED TO
UHF A_NTM_AL CONTROL OFFICER
• The carcass of any dead animal exposed to rabies, or suspected of
having been rabid, shall, upon demand, be surrendered to the Animal
Control Officer.
E. nT~POSrmTON OF ANIMALS EXPOSED TO RABIES
Any person having knowledge of the existence of any animal known to
have been, or suspected of being, exposed to rabies must
immediately report such knowledge to the Animal Control Officer or
City Health Inspector, giving any information which may be
required. For any animal known to have been, or suspected of being,
exposed to rabies, the animal shall be handled in one (1) of the
following manners:
(1) Humane destruction, with notification to, or under supervision
of, the Animal Control Officer.
(2) If not currently vaccinated, quarantine in a veterinary
hospital for at least ninety (90) days immediately following
the date of the exposure, or
(3) If currently vaccinated, immediate re-vaccination and
quarantine for at least forty five (45) days immediately
following the date of exposure.
• If a veterinarian determines that a quarantined animal does not
show the clinical signs of rabies, it may be released to the owner
prior to or upon the expiration of the quarantine period provided
the owner has paid all of the reasonable cost of such quarantine
and any veterinarian bills. However if the quarantined animal
does show clinical signs of rabies, the animal shall be humanely
destroyed and its head or brain submitted to the nearest
laboratory, certified by the Texas Department of Health for rabies
testing.
No wild animals will be placed in quarantine. All wild animals will
be humanely destroyed in such a manner that the brain is not
mutilated. The brain will then be submitted to a laboratory,
certified for rabies diagnosis, in order to be tested.
F ~ rnar "L7FUL '1'O FAIL OR REFUSE TO SURRENDER ANIMAL FOR QUARANTINE OR
DESTRUCTION
No person shall fail or refuse to surrender an animal for
supervised quarantine or humane destruction, as required herein for
rabies control, when demand therefor is made by an Animal Control
Officer.
SECTION 8: ANIMAL NUISANCES
A. NUISANCE ANIMALS
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 16
The following shall be considered public nuisances and shall be
unlawful:
(1) The keeping of any animal, which causes frequent or long
continued odor or stench that is offensive to a person of
normal sensibilities on adjoining, adjacent, or neighboring
premises.
(2) The keeping of any animal in such a manner as to endanger the
public health; to annoy the neighbors by the accumulation of
animal wastes which cause foul and offensive odors, or are
considered to be a hazard to any other animal or human being;
or by continued presence on the premises of another.
(3) Animal pens, stables or enclosures in which any animal may be
kept or confined which, from use, have become offensive to a
person of ordinary sensitivities.
(4) The keeping of bees in such a manner as to deny the lawful use
of adjacent property or endanger personal health and welfare.
(5) It shall be unlawful for any person to keep or harbor on their
premises, or in or about his premises, or premises under their
control, any animal, which by loud or unusual vocalizations
shall cause the peace or quiet of the neighborhood or the
occupants of adjacent premises to be disturbed.
(6) It shall be unlawful for any person in control of an animal,
to allow such animal to defecate on any private or public
property, other than that of the owner, and not immediately
remove same.
B. REMEDIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR THE OWNER OF A NUISANCE ANIMAL
Any of the remedial requirements described in Section 1 of this
Chapter may be imposed on any animal found to be in violation of
this section.
SECTION 9: ANIMALS PROHIBITED AS NOVELTIES
A. UNLAWFUL TO SELL, BARTER, OR GIVE AWAY FOWL UNDER THREE (3) WEEKS
OLD AND RABBITS UNDER TWO (2) MONTHS OLD
It shall be unlawful for any person to sell, offer for sale,
barter, or give away as toys, premiums or novelties, baby chickens,
ducklings or other fowl under three (3) weeks old; rabbits under
two (2) months old.
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 17
B. UNL_AWFUT~ TO SELL OR GIVE AWAY COLORED, DYED OR STAINED FOWL OR
RABBITS
• It shall be unlawful to color, dye, stain, or otherwise change the
natural color of any chickens, ducklings, other fowl, or rabbits,
or to possess for the purpose of sale or to be given away any of
the above animals which have been so colored.
SECTION 10: WILD ANIMALS
A. UNLAWFUL TO KEEP OR POSSESS IN THE CITY
It shall be unlawful to possess, keep, or have care, custody or
control of a wild animal or wildlife within the City. All persons,
including commercial animal enterprises, shall be prohibited from
selling, giving away, transferring, or importing into the City any
wild animal. Any wild animal found at large may be destroyed in the
interest of public safety.
B. EXCEPTIONS
This section shall not apply if:
(1) The animal was a medical or scientific research project, or
educational program in a primary or secondary school, or
college or university, and on the premises of such
institution, or being transported by an employee or agent of
such institution.
• (2) The animal was on the premises of, or being transported by a
circus, carnival, zoo, or amusement park:
(a) that is licensed under the federal animal welfare act,
and that is inspected annually, or
(b) that is licensed under chapter 824 of the Texas Health
and Safety Code.
(3) The animal is an infant or injured and is not capable of
surviving on its own, and is on the premises, or under the
care of, a licensed veterinarian, or an animal rehabilitation
facility licensed by the State of Texas or by the United
States of America, or being transported by an employee or
agent of such facility.
(4) The animal is being transported through the city to a point
outside the City, or
(5) any animal assisting disabled persons.
•
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 18
SECTION 11: DANGEROUS DOGS
A. DANGEROUS DOGS AT LARGE
Any dog wearing a dangerous dog collar and tag found at large may
be destroyed by any animal control officer, or any peace officer in
the interest of public safety.
B. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR DANGEROUS DOGS
In addition to other requirements found in this chapter, and
Subchapter D, Dangerous Dog, Section 822.042 of the Texas Health
and Safety Code, the owner shall:
(1) Place on the dog an orange collar of at least one (f)inch in
width with the wording "DANGEROUS DOG" printed upon the
collar.
(2) Muzzle the dog at all times the dog is not in a secure
enclosure
(3) Any of the remedial requirements described in Section 1 of
this chapter may also be imposed.
(4) Pay the appropriate fee from the fee schedule.
C. REMOVING A DANGEROUS DOG FROM THE CITY
. (1) Any person removing a dangerous dog from the City shall notify
the Animal Control Officer, or the Police Department. The
Animal Control Officer or Police Department representative
shall then notify the animal control authority over the area
where the dog is being moved.
(2) If a person moves a registered dangerous dog into the City the
owner of such dog shall notify the Animal Control Officer, or
the Police Department, within fourteen (14) days. After
presenting prior registration, and verification of
registration requirements as described in Section 822.043 of
the Texas Health and Safety Code, and verifying compliance
with the provisions of this Chapter, and the payment the
appropriate fee from the fee schedule, the dog shall be
registered with the City and a new tag provided.
SECTION 12: REGULATING COMMERCIAL BUSINESSES ASSOCIATED WITH ANIMALS
A. PERMIT REQUIRED FOR COMMERCIAL BUSINESS
No person shall conduct the commercial business of selling,
grooming, breeding, showing, exhibiting or boarding of animals
without a valid permit from the Animal Control Officer.
B. COMPLIANCE WITH ALL REGULATIONS REQUIRED
Every person engaged in the business of buying, selling, grooming,
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 19
breeding, showing, exhibiting or boarding of animals must comply
with all existing regulations governing said business or show, and
shall maintain said animal in compliance with this chapter so as
• not to endanger the public or animals health or safety, or create
a nuisance.
C. RECORDS TO BE KEPT
Every person holding a permit hereunder shall maintain accurate
records of all transactions involving animals. Such records shall
show the date, type of animal, animal registration number, and
parties to such transaction. Such records shall be kept for a
period of one (1) year and must be made available for inspection
upon request by the Animal Control Officer.
D. APPLICATION FOR PERMIT
Application for permit shall be made to the Animal Control Officer
on forms furnished by Animal Control. The application will not be
approved until certification has been received from appropriate
city officials that the zoning, construction and facility comply
with existing ordinances for establishments housing such business.
If the permit application is approved by the Animal Control
Officer, the Permit shall be issued upon payment of the appropriate
fee. The Animal Control Officer shall make any inspections
necessary to insure compliance under this section. Animals shall be
kept under sanitary conditions so as to not endanger the public or
animal health, or create a nuisance.
• E. DURATION AND RENEWAL OF PERMIT
All permits issued under this section shall be valid for the
following twelve (12) months and shall be renewed annually
thereafter by proper written application and payment of fee. No
permit issued under this section shall be renewed without the
approval of the Animal Control Officer. Permits to show or exhibit
animals (rodeos, circuses, shows, etc.) shall be valid only for the
thirty (30) day period following the issue. No permit shall be
transferable.
F. PERMIT FEES
The permit fees for persons or corporations wishing to hold or
operate any type of show or exhibition, grooming establishment,
dealership (retail or wholesale distributer), commercial animal
related business (not covered by dealer) or commercial stables are
listed on the fee schedule.
Persons requiring more than one (1) such permit shall be charged
one (1) fee for all of the permits. Such fee shall be equal to the
amount of the highest individual permit fee which would have been
charged if the permits had been separately issued.
G. PERMITS TO BE PROMINENTLY DISPLAYED
• All businesses described in this section must display the required
permits in public view at said business.
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 20
H. REVOCATION OF PERMITS
The Animal Control Officer may revoke any permit for failure to
comply with regulations contained herein. Revocation may be
appealed within ten (10) days.
I. EXEMPTIONS
(1 In cases involving a scientific or educational program, a
nonprofit organization, show, exhibition or humane activity,
or animals owned by the City, the Animal Control Officer may
waive the requirements of this section concerning permits,
fees, or conditions within his discretion.
(2) Licensed veterinarians and veterinary clinics are exempt from
this section.
SECTION 13: BEEPING OF LIVESTOCK
A. KEEPING OF SWINE PROHIBITED IN CITY
It shall be unlawful for any person to keep any swine within the
city limits.
B. KEEPING OF COWS OR HORSES
It shall be unlawful for any person to keep a cow or horse on any
premises, the overall area of which is less than one-third (1/3) of
an acre for each cow or horse kept, or keep more than can be cared
• for under sanitary conditions and not create a public nuisance and,
in no event, exceed the permitted number of adults and their foals
or calves up to six (6) months of age. The number of cows or
horses permitted shall not exceed one adult per one-third (1/3)
acre for the first acre, and two (2) adults per acre for each
additional acre over two (2) acres of a single tract of land. The
persons in lawful possession of the premises, as owner or tenant,
may keep thereon cows or horses belonging to others, but limitation
to number of cows or horses on the premises and the area and
distance requirements of this section shall still apply; and
keeping of cows or horses for others shall not be done as a
business in violation of the zoning ordinance.
C. ENCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS FOR SMALL LIVESTOCK
(1) Fencina: Any enclosure, pen, corral, or other restrictive
areas for small livestock shall consist of a solid wall
stretching from the ground to at least four feet (4') in
height, that does not sway or give way when tested by an
Animal Control Officer, or shall consist of a fence. Such as
fence must have at least sixteen (16) gauge wire arranged in
a grid pattern (hogwire) with the maximum size of any grid in
the wire being seven and one-half inches (7 1/2") by twelve
inches (12"). This wire pattern must stretch continuously
from the ground to at least thirty-two inches (32") above the
• ground. Above this wire pattern must be stretched tautly at
least two (2) strands of at least sixteen (16) gauge wire with
one (1) of these strands at least four feet (4') above the
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 21
ground. The maximum distance allowed between fence posts
shall be fifteen feet (15'). The fence posts must not sway
more than six inches (6") when tested by an Animal Control
• Officer. Trees may not be used as fence posts.
(2) Gates: Gates for such a small livestock enclosure shall be
mounted on hinges to a solid wall or fence post and stretch
from the ground to at least four feet (4') above the ground.
Such a gate must connect with another fence post or solid wall
in such a manner that small livestock cannot pass through it,
and the gate itself must be constructed so that there is not
an opening in it larger than seven and one-half inches (7
1/2") by twelve inches (12"). Such gates must have a latch or
chain attached, capable of keeping the gate closed when tested
by an Animal Control Officer. Gates must be kept closed
except when a human being is passing through a gate.
D. ENCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS FOR LARGE LIVESTOCK
(1) Fencing: Any enclosure, corral or restrictive area for large
livestock shall consist of a solid wall stretching from the
ground to at least four feet (4') above the ground, that does
not sway or give way when tested by an Animal Control Officer;
or shall consist of a fence. Such a fence must have at least
sixteen (16) gauge wire stretched tautly between fence posts.
Such a fence shall have at least four (4) strands of wire with
one (1) strand one foot (1') above the ground and one (1)
strand at least four feet (4') above the top and bottom
strands. The maximum distance between fence posts shall be
• fifteen feet (15'). The fence posts must not sway more than
six inches (6") when tested by an Animal Control Officer.
Trees may not be used as fence posts.
(2) Gates: Gates for large livestock shall be mounted on hinges
to a solid wall or fence and stretch from one foot (1') above
the ground to at least four feet (4') above the ground. Such
a gate must connect with another fence post or solid wall in
such a manner that large livestock cannot pass through it, and
the gate itself must be constructed so that there is not an
opening in it large enough for large livestock to pass
through. Such gates must have a latch or chain attached
capable of keeping the gate closed when tested by an Animal
Control Officer. Gates must be kept closed, except when a
human being is actually passing through a gate.
E. ENCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS WHEN BOTH SMALL AND LARGE LIVESTOCK ARE KEPT
TOGETHER
When small and large livestock are kept together the standards for
small livestock must be met.
F. RESTRICTING CONFINEMENT OF LIVESTOCK NEAR RESIDENCES OR ADJOINING
RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY
• (1) It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to
keep on premises under his or its control, within the city
limits, any small or large livestock in such a manner that the
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 22
livestock will be quartered closer than f fifty feet (50') from
any human living quarters, other than the owner or keeper's
living quarters.
(2) Any pen or enclosure shall be maintained in such a manner as
to be not less than five feet (5') from an adjoining
residentially zoned property.
G. BREEDING OF EQUINES TO BE CONFINED AND CONTROLLED
Male equines (horses) capable of breeding will be confined in such
a manner that said animal will not be dangerous to human beings,
and all breeding will be under the control of the owner or handler.
SECTION 14: SANITARY REQIIIREMENTS FOR REEFING OF ANIMALS
A. GENERALLY
The owner or person in possession of animals shall keep yards,
pens, and enclosures in which such animals are confined free of
odors offensive to persons of ordinary sensibilities residing in
the vicinity. Such pens and enclosures shall be kept clean to
prevent the breeding or attracting of flies, mosquitoes, or other
noxious insects, and shall not in any manner endanger the public
health or safety, or create a public nuisance.
B. SANITARY REGULATIONS FOR INITIAL PENS OR ENCLOSURES
All persons keeping such animals shall comply with the following
. sanitary regulations:
(1) Manure and droppings shall be removed from pens, stables,
yards, cages and other enclosures at least twice weekly and
handled or disposed of in such a manner as to keep the
premises free of any nuisance.
(2) Mound storage of droppings or manure between such removals
shall be permitted only under such conditions as to protect
against the breeding of flies and to prevent the migration of
fly larvae (maggots) into surrounding soil.
(3) The feeding of vegetables, meat scraps, or garbage shall be
done only in impervious containers or on an impervious
platform.
(4) Watering troughs or tanks shall be provided which shall be
equipped with adequate facilities for draining the overflow so
as to prevent the breeding of flies, mosquitoes, or other
insects.
(5) No putrescible material shall be allowed to accumulate on the
premises, and all such material used to feed which is
unconsumed shall be removed and disposed of by burial or other
sanitary means.
SECTION 15: PET CARE
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 23
The following are established as regulations for pet and animal care and
not intended to contravene the provisions for animal cruelty as
contained in the Texas Penal Code.
. A. i_TNLAWFUL NOT TO PROVIDE FOR ADEQUATE AND HUMANE CARE AND SHELTER
FOR ANIMALS
No owner shall fail to provide his animals with proper nutrition,
wind and moisture proof shelter, shade, veterinary care when needed
to prevent suffering, and with humane care and treatment.
B. ABUSING ANIMALS OR INSTIGATING ANIMAL FIGHTS PROHIBITED
No person shall beat, cruelly ill-treat, torment, overload,
overwork, or otherwise abuse an animal; or cause, instigate, or
permit any dogfight, cockfight, bullfight, or other combat between
animals or between animals and humans.
C. ABANDONING ANIMALS PROHIBITED
No owner of an animal shall abandon any animal.
D. UNLAWFUL TO COSMETICALLY ALTER DOGS UNLESS VETERINARIAN
No person shall crop ears, dock tails or remove testicles except
when a licensed veterinarian issues a signed certificate that the
operation is necessary for the dog's health and comfort, and in no
event shall any person except a licensed veterinarian perform such
an operation.
•
•
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 24
E. VEHICLE OPERATORS TO STOP UPON STRIKING AN ANIMAL, RENDER
ASSISTANCE, AND THEN REPORT SUCH INCIDENT
• Any person who, as the operator of a motor vehicle, strikes a pet
or domestic animal shall stop at once and render such assistance as
may be possible and shall immediately report such injury or death
to the appropriate local law enforcement agency.
F. TETHERED ANIMALS
(1) No unattended animal shall be tethered by any means on any
public property such as City parks or utility easements, or
public access private property such as undeveloped lots or
unfenced yards, or any other plot or tract where the public
has unrestricted access.
(2) Any tethered animal in a restricted access enclosure shall
have continuous access to shade and water, and have
unrestricted access to a wind and moisture proof shelter.
(3) Any tethered animal shall be arranged so that the tethering
device cannot become tangled around trees, poles or other
obstacles and prevent the access to shade, water and shelter.
G. ANIMALS IN MOTOR VEHICLES
No person shall leave any animal in any standing or parked vehicle
in such a way as to endanger the animals health, safety, or
• welfare. An Animal Control Officer, or police officer is authorized
to use reasonable force to remove the animal from the vehicle
whenever it appears that the animal's health, safety, or welfare is
or will be endangered if the owner of the vehicle cannot be located
after reasonable attempts. The animal shall be taken to the shelter
or to a veterinarian, if the animal is in distress. A written
notice bearing the name of the officer removing the animal, a
telephone number where the officer can be contacted, and the
location where the animal may be claimed by the owner shall be
attached to the vehicle. Any person violating this section shall
bear the full cost and expense incurred by the City in the care,
medical treatment, impoundment cost, and disposal of said animal,
including the removal from the vehicle.
H. ANIMAL TRAPPING AND POISONING
No person shall expose any known poisonous substance, including
antifreeze, whether mixed with food or not, so that the same shall
be liable to be consumed by any domestic animal or person. This
section is not intended to prohibit the proper use of herbicides,
insecticides, or rodent control materials. No person shall expose
an open trap of a metal jaw type that shall be liable to injure any
domestic animal or person, however this shall not preclude use of
humane box traps.
• SECTION 16: ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER
The position of animal control officer of Richland Hills, Texas, is
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 25
hereby continued. Such animal control officer and assistant shall be
approved, employed by and assigned to the City of Richland Hills Police
Department, and the compensation of such officer shall be determined
• from time to time by the City Council.
•
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 26
RICHLAND HILLS
ANIMAL CONTROL
FEE SCHEDIILE
•
1) REGISTRATION FEES Was
a. Dog or cat over one year of age, not sterilized. $ 5.00 $ 3.00
b. Dog or cat under one year of age, or sterilized. $ 3.00 $ 1.00
NEW 2) MIILTI PET PERMIT (New service) $ 10.00
NEW 3) GIIARD DOG REGISTRATION (Permit required, no fee had $ 25.00
previously been set).
4) IMPOIINDMENT FEBB Increased by $5.00 (each fee)
a. Class A, dogs and cats, spayed or neutered:
First impound in 12 months $ 15.00
Second impound in 12 months $ 25.00
Third impound in 12 months $ 45.00
Fourth impound in 12 months $ 85.00
b. Class A, dogs and cats, not spayed or neutered:
First impound in 12 months $ 20.00
Second impound in 12 months $ 35.00
• Third impound in 12 months $ 65.00
Fourth impound in 12 months $125.00
If proof of surgical sterilization is provided within fifteen (15)
days of release, the difference in impoundment and other fees
between sterilized and unsterilized will be refunded.
c. Class B, small livestock.
Any small livestock impounded and held by the city of Richland
Hills will be subject to the following fee schedule:
First impound in 12 months $ 30.00
Second impound in 12 months $ 40.00
Third impound in 12 months $ 50.00
Fourth impound in 12 months $ 60.00
The fee on any small livestock impounded and held by any other
state, county, municipal or private entity shall be imposed at the
discretion of that entity.
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 27
d. Class C, Large livestock.
• Any large livestock impounded and held by the city of Richland
Hills will be subject to the following fee schedule:
First impound in 12 months $ 50.00
Second impound in 12 months $ 60.00
Third impound in 12 months $ 70.00
Fourth impound in 12 months $ 80.00
The fee on any large livestock impounded and held by any other
state, county, municipal or private entity shall be imposed at the
discretion of that entity.
e. Class D, wild animals.
Same as class C.
If animal already contained.
Same as class A.
f. Class E, other.
Same as class A (sterilized)
NEW g. Class F, dead animal removal (NEW SERVICE FOR RESIDENTS' PETS)
Under thirty pounds $ 10.00
Over thirty pounds $ 20.00
h. Daily handling fee (per night animal in shelter).
• Class A, B & E $ 5.00
Class C&D $ 7.00
i. Observation fee (per night) $ 5.00
NEW j. Animal surrender fee (NEW SERVICE) $ 15.00
k. Adoption fee $ 10.00
NEW 1. Dangerous dog fees
Registration $ 50.00
Moving previously registered dog into city $ 25.00
m. Commercial business permit fees
Show or exhibition $ 10.00
Grooming $ 10.00
Dealer (retail or wholesale distributer) $ 25.00
Commercial business, not covered by dealer $ 25.00
Commercial stable $ 25.00
ORDINANCE NO. 810-97 PAGE 28
II.
Severability Clause. That it is hereby declared to be the intention
of the City Council that sections, paragraphs, sentences, clauses and
phrases of this ordinance are severable, and if any phrase, clause,
sentence, paragraph or section of this ordinance shall be declared
invalid or unconstitutional by the valid judgment or decree of any court
of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or unconstitutionality shall
not affect any of the remaining phrases, clauses, sentences, paragraphs
and sections of this ordinance, since the same would have been enacted
by the City Council without the incorporation in this ordinance of any
such invalid or unconstitutional phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph or
section.
III.
Savings Clause. That the Code of Ordinances, City of Richland
Hills, Texas, as amended shall remain in full force and effect, save and
except as amended by this ordinance.
IV.
Effective Date. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect
from and after its passage and publication as provided by the Richland
Hills City Charter and the laws of the State of Texas.
PRESENTED, GIVEN FIRST READING AND APPROVED at a regular meeting of
the Richland Hills City Council on the 28th day of January, 1997, by a
vote of 4 ayes, 0 nays, and 0 abstentions.
. APPROVED:
C%--~'
C. F. KELLEY, MAYOR
ATTEST:
C
f _
TERRI WI S, CITY S CRETARY
APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY:
r
PAUL F. WIENESKI , CI ATTORNEY
ORDINANCE N0. 810-97 PAGE 29
•
r
• ~F.RTTF7CATE FOR ORDINAN~
THE STATE OF TEXAS
COUNTY OF TARR.ANT
CITY OF RICHLAND HILLS
We, the undersigned officers of said City, hereby
certify as follows
1. The City Council of said City convened in REGULAR
MEETING ON THE 10TH DAY OF DECEMBER, 1996, at the designated
meeting place, and the roll was called of the duly
constituted officers and members of said City Council, to
wit:
C. F. Kelley, Mayor
Pat Watkins, Mayor Pro-Tem
Jim McKnight
Horace Hamilton
Phil Heinze
Larue Wall
Terri Willis, City Secretary
and all of said persons were present, except the following
absentees:
• thus constituting a quorum. Whereupon, among other
business, the following was transacted at said Meeting: a
written
ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF
CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS
was duly introduced for the consideration of said City
Council and read in full. It was then duly moved and
seconded that said Ordinance be passed; and, after due
discussion, said motion carrying with it the passage of said
Ordinance, prevailed and carried by the following vote:
AYES: All members of the City Council
shown present above voted "Aye".
NOES: None.
2. That a true, full and correct copy of the aforesaid
Ordinance passed at the Meeting described in the above and
foregoing paragraph is attached to and follows this
Certificate; that said Ordinance has been duly recorded in
said City Council's minutes of said Meeting; that the above
and foregoing paragraph is a true, full and correct excerpt
from said City Council's minutes of said Meeting pertaining
to the passage of said Ordinance; that the persons named in
. the above and foregoing paragraph are the duly chosen,
qualified and acting officers and members of said City
r
• Council as indicated therein; that each of the officers and
members of said City Council was duly and sufficiently
notified officially and personally, in advance, of the time,
place and purpose of the aforesaid Meeting, and that said
Ordinance would be introduced and considered for passage at
said Meeting, and each of said officers and members
consented, in advance, to the holding of said Meeting for
such purpose, and that said Meeting was open to the public
and public notice of the time, place and purpose of said
meeting was given, all as required by Chapter 551, Texas
Government Code, as amended.
3. That the Mayor of said City has approved and hereby
approves the aforesaid Ordinance; that the Mayor and the
City Secretary of said City have duly signed said Ordinance;
and that the Mayor and the City Secretary of said City
hereby declare that their signing of this Certificate shall
constitute the signing of the attached and following copy of
said Ordinance for all purposes.
SIGNED AND SEALED the 10th day of December, 1996.
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cretary ayor ~
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(SEAL )
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