Borough of Emerson, NJ Article II Feeding of Wild and Stray Animals

[Adopted 4-1-2009 by Ord. No. 1-09]

§ 291-3 Definitions.

For purposes of this article, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:

STRAY ANIMAL

Any dog, cat, feral cat or other domesticated animal that is not licensed to an Emerson resident pursuant to Chapter 140, Dogs and Other Animals, of the Code of the Borough of Emerson, and kept and maintained on the resident's property.

WILD ANIMAL

Any species of animal whose natural or usual habitat within the State of New Jersey is either in the wild or in a zoo, as opposed to a domesticated environment, regardless of whether such animal poses an actual or apparent threat to persons, other animals or property. This definition shall include but not be limited to pigeons, deer, waterfowl, squirrels, raccoons, skunks and groundhogs.

§ 291-4 Feeding prohibited.

A. No person shall place food intended or suitable for consumption by a wild animal or a stray animal on any property, public or private, in the Borough of Emerson, other than for the purposes of feeding a domesticated animal owned and/or licensed by said person.

B. This prohibition shall not apply to enclosed, elevated bird feeders.

§ 291-5 Violations and penalties; enforcement.

A. Any person that shall violate any of the provisions of this article shall, upon conviction thereof, pay a penalty of:

(1) First offense: minimum of $100.

(2) Second offense: minimum of $250.

(3) Third offense: $500.

B. The provisions of this article shall be enforced by the Health Officer of the Borough, such other personnel of the Health Department as may be directed to enforce this article by the Health Officer, the Animal Control Officer of the Borough and the police officers of the Borough of Emerson.