[HISTORY: Adopted by the Board of County Commissioners of
Charles County as indicated in article histories. Amendments noted
where applicable.]
[Adopted 6-19-2006 by Bill No. 2006-06[1]; amended in its entirety 1-10-2012 by Bill No.
2011-07]
[1]
Editor's Note: This bill also repealed former Art. I,
Animal Regulations, adopted 10-6-2003 by Ord. No. 2003-08.
These animal regulations are hereby established by the County
Commissioners of Charles County, Maryland, to provide for the safety
of the public, the humane care and treatment of animals and to encourage
responsible pet ownership.
As used in this article, the following terms are defined below:
Any animal four months of age or older.
Every nonhuman species of animal, both domestic and wild,
including but not limited to dogs, cats, livestock and fowl.
Any animal off the premises of the owner or custodian, and
not under the restraint of a person capable of controlling the animal.
Any Animal Control Officer employed by Charles County Commissioners
to enforce this article and applicable state code.
Any person partnership, corporation or other legal entity
that harbors or keeps any combination of more than 10 adult animals
and which does not breed and sell the offspring or use males for stud.
This definition shall not include fish, livestock, poultry and other
farm animals used in customary and normal agricultural practices.
Any facility operated by a public entity or its agent, for
the purpose of impounding animals under the authority of this article
or state code for care, confinement, return to owner, adoption or
euthanasia.
Any establishment maintained or operated by a licensed veterinarian
for the immunization, hospitalization, surgery or diagnosis, prevention
and treatment of diseases and injuries of animals.
The Animal Matters Hearing Board established pursuant to
this article.
Any confining device of limited space, enclosed on the bottom,
top and all sides by a wall, in which animals are placed for any purpose,
including confinement or display.
Charles County Animal Control shall include but not be limited
to any individual designated by the County Commissioners to enforce
this article and the applicable state code.
A commercial variety show featuring animal acts for public
entertainment.
Any person, partnership, corporation or other legal entity
engaged in the training, grooming, boarding, sale, transfer, auction,
or other delivery of any animal/animal services. Shall include but
not be limited to any pet shop, grooming shop, zoological park, circus,
performing animal exhibition, boarding or breeding facility; and any
person, partnership, corporation or other legal entity engaged in
the training, leasing, or sale of guard dogs. Shall not include animal
hospitals, animal shelters or humane societies.
Any person, partnership, corporation or other legal entity
that owns or possesses breeding stock of four or more unneutered male
or unspayed female animals or any combination thereof, for the purpose
of charging a fee for stud services or offspring. This definition
shall not include livestock, poultry and other farm animals used in
customary and normal agricultural husbandry practices.
As defined in § 230-8.
Any person, partnership, corporation or other legal entity
that harbors, takes care or custody of, or takes responsibility for
another person's animal(s); or allows the animal(s) to remain
on their premises.
As defined under § 230-12.5, and as listed in the Annotated Code of Maryland, Criminal Law § 10-621(b), prohibited: a person may not import into the state or Charles County, offer for sale, trade, barter, possess, breed, or exchange a live:
Fox, skunk, raccoon or bear;
Caiman, alligator or crocodile;
Member of the cat family other than the domestic cat;
Hybrid of a member of the cat family and a domestic cat if the
hybrid weighs over 30 pounds;
Member of the dog family other than the domestic dog;
Hybrid of a member of the dog family and a domestic dog;
Nonhuman primate, including lemur, monkey, chimpanzee, gorilla,
orangutan, marmoset, loris or tamarin; or
Poisonous snake in the family groups hydrophidae, elapidae,
viperidae or crotolidae.
Any animal kept for pleasure rather than utility; an animal
of a species that has been bred and raised to live with or in proximity
to humans, and which is dependent on humans for food and shelter.
Domestic animals include but are not limited to farm animals, and
pets such as dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and other
small rodents, European ferrets, and hedgehogs, nonpoisonous reptiles,
fish, and amphibians, parakeets, cockatiels and other exotic birds.
A domestic animal living in a wild state.
A commercial animal establishment where animals are bathed,
clipped, plucked or otherwise groomed.
Any dog that is trained specifically for and/or used to protect
private property or for personal protection.
Any establishment that trains, brokers or sells dogs to be
used to protect property or for personal protection.
A nonprofit organization chartered by the State of Maryland
to engage in the care, treatment, rehabilitation, rescue, and adoption
of domestic animals and in the humane education of both adults and
children.
Any animal in the custody of the Charles County Division
of Animal Control or its agents.
When a reasonable prudent person under the same or similar
circumstances would have been threatened by the actions of the animal
in question.
Cattle, equines, goats, sheep or swine unless otherwise provided.
Any person, partnership, corporation or other legal entity
that owns, keeps or harbors one or more animals; or allows the animal(s)
to remain on their premises. An animal shall be deemed to be harbored
if it is fed or sheltered for three consecutive days or more. In the
event that the owner or custodian of any animal is a minor, the parent
or guardian of such minor shall be responsible to ensure that all
provisions of this article and applicable state code are complied
with.
Any spectacle, display, act or event, other than circuses,
in which performing animals are used.
Any person, partnership, corporation or other legal entity,
whether operated independently or in connection with another business
enterprise that buys or brokers any species of animal for sale or
resale as pets.
Any establishment, activity or facility where a fee is charged
for the purpose of permitting persons to come into physical contact
with animals maintained within or upon such establishment, activity
or facility.
As defined under § 230-12.5.
As defined under § 230-12.4.
Includes any instance wherein a human or an animal has been
bitten by another animal for which a rabies diagnosis is suspected
or clinically confirmed; or any human or animal which has been exposed
to or in contact with another animal for which a rabies diagnosis
is suspected or clinically confirmed. The clinical determination as
to whether an animal is infected with rabies shall be made by the
Charles County Department of Health and the Maryland Department of
Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH).
An antirabies vaccination using a vaccine type approved by
the Maryland State Department of Health and Mental Hygiene or the
Maryland Public Health Veterinarian.
A condition of good order and cleanliness which minimizes
the probability of transmission of disease.
Space available to the animal must be usable and safe (e.g.,
must be provided an area free from standing water, accumulated waste,
sharp objects and debris and maintained in a safe and healthful manner).
Space must be appropriate and sufficient for the age, breed/type,
quantity, condition and size of the animal(s).
Any and all animal laws of the Annotated Code of Maryland.
The designated shelter authority within Charles County, Maryland.
Areas constructed or modified to allow the free flow of adequate
air to control temperature, humidity and prevent air stagnation.
As defined under § 230-12.5.
An animal which is not defined as a domestic animal and is
incapable of being completely domesticated or tamed. An animal which
in its natural state is wild, dangerous or ferocious and though it
may be trained and habituated by the owner or custodian will remain
dangerous to the public at large. Any hybrid or crossbred animal which
is part exotic or wild.
Any animal that is advertised, registered, licensed, or otherwise
described or represented as a wolf hybrid by its owner, possessor
or custodian, or any animal exhibiting primary physical and behavioral
wolf characteristics.
Any facility operated by a person, partnership, corporation
or other legal entity, other than a commercial animal establishment,
displaying or exhibiting one or more species of nondomesticated animals.
A.
It shall be the duty of the owner or custodian of any animal, or
anyone having any animal in his possession, to exercise reasonable
care and to take all necessary steps and precautions to protect people,
property and animals from injury or damage which might result from
their animals' behavior, regardless of whether such behavior
is motivated by mischievousness, playfulness or ferocity.
B.
In the event that the owner or custodian of any animal is a minor,
the parent or guardian of such minor shall be responsible to ensure
that all provisions of this article and applicable state code are
complied with.
A.
Membership; rules; support.
(1)
There is hereby created an Animal Matters Hearing Board which shall
consist of not more than nine members to be appointed by the County
Commissioners. The Board shall consist of not less than four Charles
County residents at large and one representative each from the following
agencies and professions:
(2)
The term of appointment is for four years. Any person appointed to
fill a vacancy created by resignation or otherwise shall be appointed
only to fulfill the unexpired term of the member who has vacated the
position. Of the members first appointed, two must be appointed for
one-year terms, two must be appointed for two-year terms, two must
be appointed for three-year terms, and one must be appointed for a
four-year term. Additional appointments shall be at the discretion
of the County Commissioners in accordance with applicable laws.
(3)
The members of the Board shall serve without compensation.
(4)
A Board member who misses three regularly scheduled meetings in a
rolling twelve-month period may be replaced at the discretion of the
County Commissioners, upon request of the Chairman of the Board.
(5)
Board members shall abide by the Charles County Code of Ethics.
(6)
The Chairman and Vice Chairman shall be appointed by the County Commissioners
of Charles County, Maryland.
(7)
A quorum shall consist of a majority of the appointed members.
(8)
To the extent provided by the approved fiscal year budget, the County
Commissioners of Charles County, Maryland shall provide for the Board
such office space, supplies and equipment as may be required by the
Board.
(9)
To the extent provided by the approved fiscal year budget the County
Attorney's Office shall provide support personnel as may be required
by the Board.
(10)
The Board shall use Roberts Rules of Order as a guide to conduct
of any and all public hearings.
B.
Powers and/or duties of the Animal Matters Hearing Board.
(1)
The Board shall meet twice monthly or at the discretion of the Chairman
to fulfill the duties and responsibilities of the Board.
(2)
The Board shall submit an annual report to the County Commissioners
concerning its responsibility hereunder.
(3)
The Board shall recommend to the County Commissioners changes in
the law regarding the control of animals in Charles County.
(4)
The Board shall conduct public hearings to determine whether a violation
of this article has occurred.
(5)
The Board may issue subpoenas to compel the attendance of any witness,
as well as the production of documents.
(6)
In reaching its decision, the Board may consider prior violation(s)
and patterns of behavior.
C.
Hearing procedures: findings and orders. The Board shall conduct
a public hearing:
(1)
Upon receipt of a written complaint that a person, partnership, corporation
or other legal entity has violated the provisions of this article.
The complaint must specify the name and address of the animal's
owner or custodian, as well as clearly and accurately describe the
animal(s) involved and the date(s) and location(s) of the alleged
incident(s). A complaint under this article shall be filed within
one year and one day from the date of the alleged violation.
(2)
Upon receipt of notice that a party subject to an order of the Board
has failed to comply with such order.
(3)
Upon notice that a party person who has been issued a citation for
a violation of this article has failed to comply with the requirements
of that citation in the time frame prescribed.
(4)
An Animal Control Officer files a written complaint.
(5)
Any animal that has been previously determined by the Board to be
a public nuisance and/or vicious and/or dangerous that is impounded
for a repeat violation of the same charge may be held, at the Board's
request, at the sheltering facility until the case can be heard by
the Board.
(6)
The Board shall give 14 days prior written notice of the hearing
to the defendant of a complaint through personal service, by certified
mail, restricted delivery, return receipt requested.
(7)
Following the presentation of all evidence, the Board shall deliberate
and shall issue its written decisions and order within 14 calendar
days. The order shall contain findings of fact and conclusions of
law. If the Board finds that a violation did not occur, it shall dismiss
the complaint or citation. In addition to imposing penalties, the
Board may require appropriate affirmative action, including but not
limited to:
(a)
The mandatory restriction or confinement of the animal under
such conditions as the Board may require in its discretion.
(b)
The mandatory disposition of the animal as the Board may direct
in its discretion.
(c)
The correction of conditions or methods of animal care, keeping,
maintenance, housing or veterinary treatment, as the Board may determine
in its discretion; all costs associated with the Board's recommendation
shall be the responsibility of the owner.
(d)
Ordering the owner/custodian of an animal, after having found
them in violation of this article or the state code, to make restitution
of expenses incurred by the County for board, veterinary care, etc.,
to the Charles County Division of Animal Control Services.
(e)
If the Board finds that a violation of the Charles County Animal Regulations has occurred, the Board it may impose levy fines as provided in § 230-12.9. The Board may suspend, reduce or increase any fine imposed to an amount that the Board considers appropriate in accordance with §§ 230-4 and 230-12.9 of this article.
(f)
All decisions of the Board authorized under this article shall
be final and subject to review only by the Circuit Court for Charles
County upon a timely appeal filed pursuant to the Maryland Rules of
Procedure by any party aggrieved by a decision within the time prescribed
for appeals from administrative agencies by such rules of procedure.
D.
Orientation for the Board. At the beginning of each calendar year,
the assigned County Attorney will conduct a briefing for the Board.
A.
The Chief shall be responsible for the enforcement of the provisions
of this article, including but not limited to public safety, public
nuisance, prevention, cruelty to animals and minimum standards for
animal care. The Chief shall implement and maintain the following:
(1)
A program of regular patrols and response to citizen complaints for
the purpose of enforcing this article and the state code regarding
animals.
(2)
A program inspection of all commercial and noncommercial animal establishments
required to have a special permit under the provision of this article.
(3)
A program to maintain accurate records of licenses, impoundments,
dispositions and enforcement actions and animal bites.
(4)
Provision of twenty-four-hour, seven-day-a-week animal emergency
service to the extent provided by the current approved fiscal year
budget.
(5)
The development and provision of public information programs on this
article, adoption, spay and neuter, health care, and other programs
as needed.
B.
The Chief shall serve as an advisor to the Animal Matters Hearing
Board.
C.
The Chief shall carry out and enforce the orders resulting from the
hearings of the Animal Matters Hearing Board.
A.
Any Animal Control Officer employed by the County Commissioners of
Charles County, Maryland, shall exercise that authority necessary
to enforce the provisions of this article and the state code. Animal
Control Officers are specifically authorized and empowered by this
article, without limitation, to:
(1)
Impound any animal which has been observed by an Animal Control Officer
or other law enforcement official to be kept in violation of this
article or the state code.
(2)
Make prompt and reasonable efforts to locate and notify the owner
or custodian of an impounded animal, including coordinating with the
shelter staff.
(3)
May investigate and issue notices of violations to the owner or custodian
of an animal when it has been observed by an Animal Control Officer
or any law enforcement official to be in violation of this article
or the state code.
(4)
Promptly respond and administer or obtain emergency assistance, first
aid and/or qualified medical assistance to injured or diseased stray
animals which come into the custody of the County, without the consent
of the owner or custodian of such animal. For this purpose, neither
the officer administering such assistance, Charles County nor any
of its employees or agents shall be liable for acts committed or omitted
while rendering such assistance unless such act or omission constitutes
gross negligence or malice.
(5)
To investigate animal bites and make recommendations to the Animal
Matters Hearing Board and/or Health Department pursuant to this article.
(6)
Receive and investigate complaints concerning dangerous and/or vicious animals. Whenever an animal complained against shall be reasonably deemed by an Animal Control Officer to be a dangerous and/or vicious or a potentially dangerous animal as defined in § 230-12.5 of this article, the Animal Control Officer may issue a citation for violation of animal regulations to the owner and/or custodian of the animal citing § 230-12.5 and any other applicable sections of the animal regulations. A citation for the violation of § 230-12.5 requires the owner and/or custodian to appear before the Animal Matters Hearing Board on the date specified on the citation for a hearing to determine if the animal is to be designated as dangerous and/or vicious pursuant to this article.
(a)
If the Animal Control Officer deems an animal to be dangerous and/or vicious or potentially dangerous, and that the animal has or continues to pose a threat to public safety and welfare, the Animal Control Officer may impound the animal. The Animal Control Officer may enter on private property upon probable cause in order to determine if the animal threatens the public safety and welfare and to impound the animal pursuant to this section. The animal shall remain impounded pending a hearing before the Animal Matters Hearing Board. Whenever an animal has been impounded pursuant to this section, the owner and/or custodian, if known, shall be issued a citation for violation of animal regulations § 230-12.5. Such citation shall include the date and time of the scheduled hearing by the Animal Matters Hearing Board. The Animal Control Officer, owner and/or custodian may petition the Chairman of the Animal Matters Hearing Board to conduct a special hearing on the matter prior to the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Animal Matters Hearing Board in accordance with § 230-4 of this article.
(b)
During the period of impoundment the owner and/or custodian
may be held responsible for all costs and maintenance expenses incurred.
These expenses shall be itemized and presented to the Animal Matters
Hearing Board as to the amount of restitution to be paid to the County
by the owner or custodian of the animal.
(7)
Conduct public information programs regarding this article, adoption,
spay, neuter, health care, and other programs as directed.
(8)
Conduct inspections of commercial animal establishments as provided
in this article.
(9)
Take custody of stray or surrendered animals.
(10)
Initiate a complaint and provide other forms of enforcement
of this article and/or the state code. Prior to a complaint being
filed by an Animal Control Officer with either the Board or Court
of the State of Maryland, the Animal Control Officer shall have probable
cause of an alleged violation of this article or the state code.
(11)
Serve subpoenas requiring appearance before the Board.
B.
It shall be a violation of this article to interfere with, hinder,
or molest an Animal Control Officer in the performance of their duties
as prescribed in this article and the state code. Such prohibited
interference includes, but is not limited to: physically striking
or attempting to strike the Animal Control Officer; removing or attempting
to remove any animal from the control of an Animal Control Officer;
removing or intentionally hiding any animal under investigation by
an Animal Control Officer; knowingly providing false information to
an Animal Control Officer; removing or attempting to remove any animal
from any vehicle used by an Animal Control Officer; and, taking or
damaging any County property used by an Animal Control Officer. Certain
violations of this section may also be subject to prosecution under
the Annotated Code of Maryland.
A.
The TCAS animal shelter shall have the powers to:
(1)
Receive stray and surrendered animals;
(2)
Ascertain the identity of the owner or custodian of any impounded
animal, and as a precondition of release, require the payment of all
charges for the care, impoundment, board, veterinary treatment and
unpaid license fees incurred pursuant to an impoundment;
(3)
Place unclaimed or surrendered animals for adoption or rescue in
accordance with this article, the state code, and the policies established
by the TCAS;
(4)
Humanely euthanize unclaimed or surrendered animals in accordance
with this article and the state code.
B.
The TCAS shall have the following duties:
(1)
Provide humane treatment of all animals, at all times, under its
care.
(2)
Maintain and adhere to prescribed standards for the humane operation
of the animal shelter, including, but not limited to, the housing,
feeding, care, veterinary treatment, rescue, adoption and euthanasia
of animals in the facility pursuant to this article and state code.
(3)
To the extent provided by the approved fiscal year budget, provide
for necessary and appropriate veterinary care of injured or sick animals
in the custody of the TCAS. Such veterinary care may be rendered without
the consent of the owner. Unless caused by gross negligence or intentional
misconduct, Charles County employees, TCAS staff and its agents shall
not be liable for acts committed or omitted in rendering such care.
(4)
Post in a conspicuous location at the animal shelter an approved
schedule of fees for the housing, care, treatment, adoption and redemption
of animals which come into the custody of the TCAS.
(5)
Maintain all records of impoundments, veterinary treatment, disposition
of animals and other activities for a period of three years. Animal
records shall be complete and accurate as to the breed, sex, color,
condition, how, when, and where the animal was obtained, and the final
disposition of the animal.
(6)
Conduct public information programs on regarding this article, responsible
pet ownership, adoption, spaying, neutering, health care and other
programs as directed by the Sheltering Authority.
(7)
Make prompt and reasonable efforts to locate and notify possible
owner or custodian of the intake of a stray animal.
A.
It shall be a violation of this article for any individual to:
(1)
Abandon any animal;
(2)
Torture, torment, beat, kill, injure, mutilate, intentionally strike
with any vehicle, overdrive, overload, or otherwise abuse any animal,
except in defense of persons or other animals;
(3)
Administer poison to any animal or knowingly place or leave any poisonous
or other harmful substance with intent to injure or kill any animal
other than vermin;
(4)
Use or permit any animal to be used for the purpose of fighting with
any other animal;
(5)
Cause, arrange or authorize these acts;
(6)
Inflict unnecessary suffering or pain upon an animal, or unnecessarily
fail to provide the an animal with nutritious food in sufficient quantity,
necessary veterinary care, proper drink, ventilation, space, shade,
shelter and protection from the elements.
(7)
Sell or distribute any dog or cat less than eight weeks of age unless
accompanied by its dam. This does not apply to animals given to a
government operated or supported animal shelter or animals accompanied
by a statement signed by a licensed veterinarian stating that the
dam is incapacitated for humane or medical reasons and cannot care
for her offspring.
(8)
Animals left in a standing or parked vehicle.
(a)
An owner or custodian may not leave an animal unattended in
a standing or parked motor vehicle in a manner that endangers the
health or safety of the animal.
(9)
Sell or give away any animal as an inducement to enter a contest,
game, or place of amusement, unless such activity has been specifically
permitted by the Maryland Department of Agriculture.
B.
In the case of activities in which physical pain may unavoidably
be caused to animals, such as medical and scientific activities, food
processing, customary and normal veterinary and agricultural husbandry
practices, and hunting, "cruelty" means a failure to employ the most
humane method reasonably available.
A.
It shall be the duty of every owner or custodian of a dog, cat or
ferret at least four months of age within Charles County to have such
animal inoculated with an antirabies vaccine approved by the Charles
County Department of Health. This inoculation shall be readministered
as frequently as the Charles County Department of Health may from
time to time specify to ensure that the animal maintains its resistance
to rabies.
(1)
The inoculation shall be administered by a licensed veterinarian
who shall issue the owner or custodian a rabies certificate.
(2)
The rabies certificate issued by the veterinarian shall be preserved
by the owner or custodian of the animal and be exhibited upon the
request for inspection by an Animal Control Officer, Health Officer,
Law Enforcement Officer, or their authorized agents, to include shelter
staff when the owner or custodian seeks to reclaim an animal from
the TCAS shelter.
(3)
The health status of an animal in quarantine shall always be verified
in person by either by a Health Officer, Animal Control Officer or
licensed veterinarian.
B.
Quarantine requirements. Any domesticated mammal that has bitten
a person, or any other dog, cat or ferret shall be quarantined for
a period of not less than 10 calendar days following the date of the
bite. Any domesticated mammal which has been bitten by or otherwise
physically exposed to an animal that is known or suspected to be infected
with the rabies virus shall be quarantined for a period of not less
than 10 calendar days following the date of the bite or exposure.
A longer quarantine period may be mandated, or the animal may be ordered
to be euthanized and tested for rabies in the sole discretion of the
Charles County Department of Health. The quarantine requirements are:
(1)
Confinement of the animal to a house, garage or other escape-proof
enclosure or building approved by the Charles County Department of
Health or its designee.
(2)
The quarantined animal may not be removed from the quarantine premises
unless on a leash, muzzled, and under the immediate control of an
adult capable of controlling the animal.
(3)
Prevention of contact with other animals or persons other than the
primary caretakers.
(4)
The animal may not be removed from the quarantine premises without
written authorization of the Charles County Department of Health or
its designee.
(5)
If the quarantined animal becomes ill or begins to exhibit behavioral
changes, the owner or custodian shall immediately notify the Charles
County Department of Health, who shall determine the appropriate course
of action.
(6)
If the quarantined animal dies, the owner or custodian shall immediately
notify the Charles County Department of Health and make the animal
available for rabies testing.
(7)
If the quarantined animal escapes, the owner or custodian shall immediately
notify the Charles County Sheriff's Office the Charles County
Division of Animal Control and the Charles County Department of Health
Department.
(8)
Until the animal is cleared by the Charles County Department of Health
from quarantine, the owner or custodian shall not euthanize, kill,
give away, sell or otherwise dispose of the animal without written
authorization from the Charles County Department of Health.
(9)
If a veterinarian's examination is not required on the final
day of the quarantine, the owner or custodian shall telephone the
Charles County Department of Health to report the status of the animal.
(10)
If the animal is unvaccinated against rabies at the time it
was bitten or exposed, the animal shall not be vaccinated until released
from quarantine.
(11)
If unvaccinated, the owner or custodian shall take the animal
to a licensed veterinarian for a physical rabies exam and vaccination
within five calendar days of the final day of quarantine.
(12)
If an animal is not properly quarantined, it shall be impounded
by an Animal Control Officer or his designee.
A.
The sale of licenses shall be through the Charles County Division
of Animal Control or its designees.
(1)
It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation or other legal
entity to own, keep or harbor a dog or cat four months old or older
without a current Charles County License.
(2)
Owners or custodians of certified Seeing Eye dogs, hearing dogs,
governmental police dogs, or other certified dogs that are trained
to assist the physically handicapped shall not be required to pay
the annual fee but shall be required to obtain and display the license.
(3)
Animal shelters operated by chartered humane organizations or local
government for the purpose of housing stray, abandoned, sick or injured
animals shall be exempt from licensing prior to adoption or return
to owner.
(4)
Applications for license(s) shall be made to the Charles County Division
of Animal Control or its designee within 30 days of residency.
(a)
Before any license shall be issued, the owner shall produce
a valid rabies certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian proving
that the dog or cat is currently vaccinated against rabies.
(b)
Before any unsexed license shall be issued, the owner shall
produce a certificate of surgical sterilization issued by a licensed
veterinarian proving that the dog or cat has been spayed or neutered.
(5)
License certificates shall include the date of issuance, expiration
date, the owner's name and address, home and work telephone numbers,
as well as the animal's sex, species, breed, age, color and markings;
rabies expiration date, rabies tag number, issuing veterinarian's
name and telephone number.
(6)
A license tag shall be issued with the license certificate. This
tag shall be worn by the dog or cat at all times, except when confined
in a home, kennel or when participating in a competition where such
displays are prohibited.
(7)
No person may use any license for any dog or cat other than the animal
for which it was issued.
(8)
The license certificate shall be made available upon request by any
health, animal control or law enforcement officer, or their agents.
(9)
The annual fee for a dog or cat license shall be as set forth in
the Commissioners' fees and charges, approved on a yearly basis
with the annual budget.
B.
Animal fancier licensing. Any person, partnership, corporation, or
other legal entity that harbors or keeps any combination of more than
10 adult animals and which does not breed and sell the offspring or
use males for stud may not do so without first obtaining an animal
fancier's license in compliance with this section.
(1)
Application for an animal fancier's license shall be made to
the Charles County Division of Animal Control or its designee. The
application shall be accompanied by a photograph, current rabies vaccination
certificate and description of each animal to be covered by the license.
(2)
The license period shall run for one year from the date of issuance.
Renewal applications for licenses shall be made 30 days prior to expiration
of said license.
(3)
An annual animal fancier's license will be issued only upon
the successful completion of an inspection of the premises where the
animals are kept or housed.
(a)
An appointment for inspection will be made by Charles County
Animal Control Services within 30 days of receipt of the application.
(b)
When the license covers dogs or cats, individual tags for the
animals covered by this license will be issued along with the license
certificate. These tags shall be worn by the individual dogs or cats
at all times, except when confined in a home, kennel or when participating
in a competition where such displays are prohibited.
(4)
A current rabies vaccination certificate on each animal covered by
the license shall be made available at the time of the inspection
and at any time requested by any animal control, health or law enforcement
officer.
(5)
If the property where the animals are to be kept or housed is not
owned by the applicant, he/she must submit written notarized permission
from the property owner authorizing the activity requested and the
maximum number of animals to be kept on the property.
(6)
The annual fee for a fancier's license shall be as set forth
in the Commissioners' fees and charges, approved on a yearly
basis with the annual budget. If all of the animals covered by the
license are sterilized, a 75% reduction of the applicable fee will
be applied.
(7)
No person, partnership, corporation or other legal entity that has
been found guilty of cruelty to animals shall be eligible for an animal
fancier's license.
C.
Commercial animal establishment licensing. No person, partnership,
corporation or other legal entity shall operate a commercial animal
establishment without first obtaining a license in compliance with
this section. License applications shall be accompanied by written
verification from Charles County Department of Planning and Growth
Management that the applicant's intended use of the property
complies with any and all applicable local and state zoning and land
use statutes.
(1)
No fee may be required of any government-operated zoological park.
(2)
All dogs and cats offered for sale or resale must be examined by
a licensed veterinarian within the last three months prior to sale
or resale.
(a)
Any animal under veterinarian treatment may not be offered for
sale without release from the veterinarian.
(b)
Any owner or employee of a commercial animal establishment who
knows of or should have known of any animal defect or illness shall
make a purchaser aware of this information prior to sale.
(3)
Records or forms must be maintained for a period of one year for
any animal offered for sale or sold. Records shall contain the following
but are not limited to:
(4)
Commercial animal establishment license shall be renewed annually
upon successful completion of an inspection and payment of the applicable
fee. The license shall be displayed at the commercial animal establishment
in a conspicuous location suitable for public viewing.
(5)
Change in ownership or location.
(a)
If there is a change in ownership of a commercial animal establishment,
the new owner shall have the current license transferred to his/her
name upon payment of a $25 transfer fee and completion of a successful
inspection of the premises.
(b)
If there is a change in the location of a commercial animal
establishment, the owner shall file for a change of address and pay
a as set forth in the Commissioners' fees and charges, approved
on a yearly basis with the annual budget, and complete a successful
inspection of the premises within 30 days of change of location.
(6)
Any commercial animal establishment who has a change in the category
under which a license was issued shall notify the licensing authority
and be subject to reinspection, reclassification and readjustment
of the license fee.
(7)
Every commercial activity subject to this article shall be considered
a separate enterprise requiring an individual license fee.
(8)
The license period shall run for one year from the date of issuance.
Renewal applications for licenses shall be made 30 days prior to expiration
of said license.
D.
Commercial animal establishment license issuance and suspension.
(1)
In the case of commercial breeding facilities, if the property where
the activity is to take place is not owned by the applicant, lessees
must submit written notarized permission from the property owner authorizing
the commercial activity requested and the maximum number of animals
allowed the be kept on the property.
(2)
Upon receipt of the application and license fee, Charles County Division
of Animal Control shall inspect the facility prior to issuance of
the license. A license may be denied if the person, partnership, or
corporation or other legal entity holding the license refuses or fails
to comply with this article or any law governing the protection and
keeping of animals.
(3)
It shall be a condition of any license issued pursuant to this subsection
that the Charles County Division of Animal Control is expressly authorized
to conduct unannounced post-issuance compliance inspections during
normal County business hours. The inspectors will examine all animals
at the premises, all records required to be maintained under this
article, as well as the premises where animals are kept. If permission
for such inspection is refused, the license previously issued shall
be suspended.
(4)
If the applicant has withheld or falsified any information on the
application, the Charles County Division of Animal Control shall suspend
the license.
(5)
No person, partnership, or corporation or other legal entity that
has been found guilty of cruelty to animals shall be issued a license
to operate a commercial animal establishment.
(6)
Any person, partnership, corporation or other legal entity having
its license revoked by order of the Animal Matters Hearing Board shall
not be eligible to reapply for a period of six months following the
date of the revocation. Each reapplication shall be accompanied by
a fee of $25 as set forth in the Commissioners' fees and charges,
approved on a yearly basis with the annual budget and shall include
written verification from the Charles County Department of Planning
and Growth Management government that the applicant's intended
use of the property complies with any and all applicable local and
state zoning and land use statutes, as well as any amendments thereto.
(7)
Appeals for denied or suspended licenses may be made to the Animal
Matters Hearing Board within 14 calendar days of receipt of written
notice of such action. Failure of the licensee to appeal the denial
or suspension within the time specified shall cause the license denial
or suspension to stand.
(8)
The filing of a timely appeal of a denial or suspension of a license
to the Animal Matters Hearing Board shall not stay necessary enforcement
activities to ensure the health and welfare of animals owned or in
the custody of the appellant. In addition, in the event of an emergency
situation an Animal Control Office may petition the Chairman of the
Animal Matters Hearing Board to issue an immediate cease-and-desist
order.
E.
Commercial animal establishment license fees. License fees shall
be as set forth in the Commissioners' fees and charges, approved
on a yearly basis with the annual budget.
A.
No owner or custodian of an animal shall fail to provide the animal
with: humane care and treatment; sufficient, nutritious food; potable
water in sufficient quantities; ventilation, shelter, space, shade
and protection from the weather; and veterinary care when needed.
In the case of farm animals, nothing in this section may be construed
as imposing shelter requirements or standards more stringent than
normally accepted husbandry practices.
B.
Minimum standards for indoor and outdoor enclosures for animals must:
(1)
Be structurally sound and maintained in good repair to protect the
animal from injury and to contain the animal;
(a)
Fencing shall be appropriate so as to keep the intended animals
restrained within its boundaries.
(2)
Provide sufficient space to allow each animal adequate freedom of
movement; space must be appropriate and sufficient for the age, breed/type,
quantity, condition and size of the animal(s).
(3)
Be usable and safe (e.g., must be provided an area free from standing
water, accumulated waste, sharp objects, trash and debris and maintained
in a safe and humane manner to minimize health hazards and obnoxious
odors).
(4)
Provide potable water that is always available and that is kept in
a vessel secured to prevent tipping.
C.
Interior and exterior housing facilities shall provide adequate ventilation
by natural or mechanical means, and the ambient temperature shall
be compatible with the health of the animal.
D.
Outdoor shelter shall be as follows:
(1)
During the summer months between June 1 and September 15 or whenever
the ambient air temperature is above 80° F., or when sunlight
is likely to cause heat exhaustion, sufficient shade by natural or
artificial means shall be provided to protect the animal from direct
sunlight. Under no circumstances shall a dog house, regardless of
its design, be considered shade during the summer months.
(2)
If an animal is confined outdoors for a continuous period of a half
hour or more, it shall be the duty of the owner or custodian to provide
said animal with proper shelter from the elements consistent with
that species of animal. For livestock, poultry and other farm animals
proper shelter shall be consistent with customary and normal agricultural
husbandry practices. For dogs and cats, "proper shelter" is described
below:
(a)
Weatherproof. Shelter must be solid. There shall be no cracks
or openings other than entrance. The shelter shall not have any metal
or plastic primary interior surfaces. Commercially made shelters with
insulation material between the inner and outer layers of fiberglass/plastic
construction are generally acceptable.
(b)
Elevated. Floor must be off the ground at least two inches.
(c)
Door flap. Between December 1 and March 15 and whenever the
ambient air temperature is 35° F. or lower, the entrance must
be covered with a self-closing door, an offset outer door or a flexible
flap and/or the entrance should face south or east, away from the
prevailing winds to protect the animal from the elements.
(d)
Bedding. Bedding must be kept dry. Straw, leaves, hay, wood
shavings or other suitable material must be provided in sufficient
quantity for insulation against cold and damp.
(e)
Size. The shelter must be large enough to allow the animal to
enter, stand, turn around and lie down comfortably and small enough
to allow the animal to warm the interior with its body.
E.
The owner or custodian of a dog may not tie, chain, cable or in any
way tether a dog outside for a total of more than four hours a day.
If a chain, rope, line or other such item is used to tie an animal,
it shall be of sufficient length to safely and humanely allow the
animal freedom of movement without becoming entangled with obstructions.
A dog may not be tethered using a collar or harness that is made primarily
of metal and is not at least as large as the circumference of the
dog's neck plus one inch.
F.
A kennel/pen for outside dogs shall be a minimum of six feet in height
and meet the minimum space/size requirements as listed in the following
table. These requirements are not applicable to animal shelters, humane
societies, commercial boarding kennels, veterinary clinics and hospitals,
or pet stores.
|
Number of Dogs
|
Small
(up to 25 pounds)
|
Medium
(25 to 50 pounds)
|
Large
(over 50 pounds)
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
3 feet x 7 feet (21 square feet)
|
6 feet x 10 feet (60 square feet)
|
8 feet x 10 feet (80 square feet)
| |
|
2
|
4 feet x 8 feet (32 square feet)
|
8 feet x 10 feet (80 square feet)
|
10 feet x 10 feet (100 square feet)
| |
|
3
|
5 feet x 9 feet (45 square feet)
|
8 feet x 12 feet (96 square feet)
|
10 feet x 14 feet (140 square feet)
| |
|
4
|
8 feet x 10 feet (80 square feet)
|
10 feet x 12 feet (120 square feet)
|
12 feet x 16 feet (192 square feet)
|
G.
A person may not allow an animal to ride in the unenclosed area of
a motor vehicle unless the animal is confined by a securely affixed,
well-ventilated container, cage or other device designated to safely
prevent the animal from falling or jumping from the motor vehicle.
A.
It shall be unlawful for any person, partnership, or corporation
or other legal entity to allow an animal to be at large.
B.
This section shall not apply to a dog undergoing supervised obedience
training or while actually engaged in the sport of hunting in an authorized
area while supervised by a competent person.
C.
Without permission of the proper authority, the owner or custodian
of any animal may not permit the animal to be on school grounds on
a day when school is in session, in a public recreation area, any
public property or thoroughfare or private property without the property
owner's permission unless:
D.
No animal accidentally at large with a person capable of controlling
the animal in immediate physical pursuit shall be deemed at large.
E.
A person who is aware of an animal being at large or who finds a
stray animal shall report the condition to the Tri-County Animal Shelter,
an Animal Control Officer, or other law enforcement official.
F.
An Animal Control Officer or authorized representative of Animal
Control who observes an animal at large may pursue that animal on
public and/or private property.
Every female dog or cat in season shall be humanely confined
in a building or secure enclosure in such a manner that such female
dog or cat cannot come in contact with an unneutered male of the same
species except for planned breeding. This does not exclude normal
waste elimination while under physical restraint and direct supervision
and on the owner/custodian's property.
It shall be unlawful for any owner or custodian to allow their
animal to urinate or defecate on the property of another without the
consent of the owner of said property.
It shall be unlawful for any owner or custodian to allow their
animal to defecate on public property unless the owner or custodian
of the animal immediately thereafter removes and disposes of it in
a sanitary manner.
A.
No person, partnership, corporation or other legal entity shall keep
or maintain any animal in such manner as to cause or permit the animal
to be a public nuisance. A public nuisance is when an owner or custodian
allows an animal to:
(1)
Be at large;
(2)
Damage the property of anyone other than its owner;
(3)
Molest pedestrians, neighbors or passersby;
(4)
Intimidate pedestrians, neighbors or passersby;
(5)
Chase vehicles;
(6)
Bark or make other harsh or excessive noise so as to disturb
the quiet, comfort, or repose of members of the community as reflected
by reasonable persons with normal sensitivities;
(7)
Foul the air by odor and thereby create unreasonable annoyance
or discomfort to neighbors or others in close proximity to the premises
where the animal is kept or harbored;
(8)
Defecate on public property and/or urinate/defecate on private
property; or
(9)
Continue or repeat that behavior or activity for which the animal
has previously been determined by the Board, after notice to its owner
and a hearing, to be in violation of any of this article and/or a
public nuisance by virtue of being a menace to the public health,
welfare or safety.
A.
For the purpose of this article, a "dangerous and/or vicious animal"
shall be defined as any animal:
(1)
Which wounds, bites, or otherwise injures a human being without provocation on public or private property. For the purposes of this section, the term "provoked" shall mean any situation occurring in Subsection B, and not the term as described in the Health Department bite report;
(2)
Which has injured or killed a domestic animal, without provocation,
on public or private property;
(3)
Which has a vicious nature, disposition and/or propensity which
is known or should be known by its owner or custodian;
(4)
Which has been previously determined to be dangerous and/or
vicious by other competent authority;
(5)
Owned or harbored primarily or in part for the purpose of animal
fighting or any animal trained for animal fighting; or
(6)
Not owned by a governmental or law enforcement unit, used primarily
to guard public or private property.
(7)
Any live animal as listed in the Annotated Code of Maryland,
Criminal Law Article, § 10-621(b), entitled "Import, offer
or transfer of dangerous animal (prohibited)."
B.
No animal may be declared dangerous and/or vicious if:
(1)
The threat, wound, bite, injury or damage was sustained by a
person who:
(a)
At the time was committing a willful trespass or other tort
upon the premises occupied by the owner or custodian keeper of the
animal;
(b)
Was tormenting, abusing, or assaulting the animal(s);
(c)
Has in the past been observed or reported to have tormented,
abused, or assaulted the animal; or
(d)
Was committing or attempting to commit a crime;
C.
Potentially dangerous. The Board may make a determination that an
animal is potentially dangerous. A potentially dangerous animal is
any animal that, by its actions, constitutes a physical threat to
human beings, other domestic animals, or both.
D.
The Board may consider past history and actions of the animal in
their determinations.
E.
Upon determination of dangerous and/or vicious or potentially dangerous
by the Board, the Board may require any or all of the following:
(1)
No dangerous and/or vicious or potentially dangerous animal
shall be chained, tethered or otherwise tied to any inanimate object,
such as a tree, post or building outside of its own enclosure.
(2)
For any owner or custodian of a dangerous and/or vicious or
potentially dangerous animal who maintains their animal outside, a
portion of their property shall be fenced with a perimeter or area
fence. Within this perimeter fence, the animal shall be humanely confined
inside a pen or kennel meeting the requirement specified in this article.
The pen or kennel may not share common fencing with the area or perimeter
fence. The kennel or pen must have secured sides; a secure top attached
to all sides; the sides must either be buried two feet into the ground,
sunken into a concrete pad, or otherwise secured to prevent escape
by digging. The gate to the pen or kennel must be locked.
(3)
Whenever outside of its enclosure, but on the owner's or
custodian's property, a dangerous and/or vicious or potentially
dangerous animal must be attended by the owner or custodian and restrained
by a secure collar and leash of sufficient strength to prevent escape.
(4)
The owner or custodian of any dangerous and/or vicious or potentially
dangerous animal shall display in a prominent place on their premises
where the animal is kept, and at each entrance and exit to the area
where such animal is confined, a sign easily readable by the public
using the words "dangerous dog." The lettering on the signs shall
be at least three-inch block on signs 8 1/2 inches by 14 inches,
legible, in bright colors.
(5)
Except when being transported in and humanely and securely confined
within, a vehicle, no dangerous and/or vicious or potentially dangerous
animal shall be permitted off the property of its owner or custodian
except when it is:
(a)
Attended by its owner or custodian;
(b)
Is humanely restrained by a secure collar and leash (not to
exceed six feet in length); both collar and leash to be of sufficient
strength to prevent escape; and
(c)
Is humanely muzzled by any means sufficient to prevent biting
other persons or domestic animals.
(6)
The animal be neutered at the expense of the owner or custodian.
(7)
The animal be microchipped at the expense of the owner or custodian
and the microchip number provided to Charles County Division of Animal
Control.
(8)
Ownership or custody of an animal presumed or deemed dangerous
and/or vicious or potentially dangerous shall not be transferred without
prior written approval.
F.
Upon determination of dangerous and/or vicious by the Board, the
Board may require that the animal be humanely euthanized.
G.
The owner or custodian of an animal presumed or deemed dangerous
and/or vicious or potentially dangerous by the Board shall immediately
notify the Charles County Sheriff's Office Department and Charles
County Division of Animal Control if the animal should become at large
or otherwise not meet any and all requirements set.
H.
Enforcement of the requirements set for the lawful keeping of a dangerous
and/or vicious or potentially dangerous animal.
(1)
In the event that the owner or custodian of a dangerous and/or
vicious or potentially dangerous animal is in violation of any regulation,
an Animal Control Officer or other law enforcement officer may order
the violation immediately corrected and issue a citation to the owner
or custodian.
(2)
If the violation cannot be immediately corrected, the animal
may be impounded, in which case the owner or custodian will be issued
a citation and notified to appear before the Board for the violation.
At the owner or custodian's request and expense and upon approval
by an Animal Control Officer, such impoundment may be at a veterinarian
or licensed commercial animal establishment of the owner or custodian's
choosing.
(3)
If the owner or custodian of a dangerous and/or vicious or potentially
dangerous animal impounded for violation of this article presents
proof that the animal will now be kept in compliance with this article,
the animal shall be released upon payment of any fees and penalties
due.
(4)
If the owner or custodian of a dangerous and/or vicious or potentially
dangerous animal fails to either provide proof that the animal shall
now be kept restrained and/or confined in compliance with this article
or fails to reclaim it within 72 hours from the time of impoundment
by Animal Control, the animal shall be humanely euthanized.
I.
Repeat offenders of provisions relating to dangerous and/or vicious
or potentially dangerous animals will be given an opportunity to fully
explain to the Board why a violation has been repeated. The Board
will consider such explanation in determining penalties and/or disposition.
A.
Any animal observed in violation of this article or the state code
may be immediately and humanely impounded and housed at the Tri-County
Animal Shelter or its designated agent. In addition to, or in lieu
of, impounding an animal, the Animal Control Officer may issue to
the known owner or custodian of such animal a notice of violation.
B.
Impounded stray domestic animals may not be adopted, rescued, placed,
or destroyed until:
C.
An owner or custodian reclaiming an impounded animal shall pay the
fees established by the Tri-County Animal Shelter. The fees for subsequent
impounds occurring within 12 months shall be doubled. Upon the third
and any subsequent impoundments within 12 months, the animal shall
remain in the shelter until the owner or custodian appears before
the Board's next scheduled hearing. The Board shall determine
the necessary means to abate the violations and may levy fines and
fees.
D.
As a precondition of release, the owner or custodian reclaiming any
impounded animal will be required to pay all established fees and
other expenses for the care, impoundment, Board and veterinary treatment
incurred by Charles County or its agents pursuant to the impoundment.
F.
All impounded dogs and cats being reclaimed from the Tri-County Animal
Shelter will be microchipped prior to release at an established fee
to be paid by the owner or custodian reclaiming the animal.
G.
Except as otherwise provided in this article, any animal impounded
and not reclaimed by its owner or custodian within three working days
following impoundment shall be deemed abandoned. The animal shall
then become the property of Charles County, and be made available
for adoption, rescue or euthanization, in accordance with this article,
state code and Tri-County Animal Shelter policy.
H.
No unclaimed dog or cat shall be released for adoption without being
sterilized, or without written agreement from the adopter guaranteeing
that such animal will be sterilized within 30 days for adults or a
specified date in the contract for puppies and kittens.
I.
Any animal considered by the Tri-County Animal Shelter to be unhealthy,
dangerous or otherwise unfit may not be placed for adoption.
J.
The Tri-County Animal Shelter may deny applications for adoption
as provided by established shelter policy and procedure.
K.
No wild animal may be placed for adoption.
L.
No animal shall be knowingly sold or given away for use in experimentation
or research.
M.
Charles County, its employees or agents shall not be liable for any
damages to person or property caused by an animal adopted, rescued
or reclaimed from the shelter.
As in the Maryland Annotated Code, Transportation Article § 20-106,
any person who, as the operator of a motor vehicle, strikes a domestic
animal shall immediately notify the owner or custodian of the domestic
animal, or, if the owner or custodian cannot be immediately notified,
then the state or local police, or Animal Control of the accident.
Any fees or fines established within this article may be evaluated
and adjusted annually.
A.
The Board may impose fines at the close of all evidence, at any hearing,
as set forth below.
B.
The fines for subsequent violations within a rolling twelve-month
period shall be doubled.
|
In Violation of Section
|
Category
|
Fine
| ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
§ 230-6B
|
Interference with an Animal Control Officer
|
$250
| ||
|
§ 230-8
|
Cruelty (requires an appearance before the Board)
|
$50 to $1,000
| ||
|
§ 230-9
|
Rabies prevention (requires an appearance before the Board)
| |||
|
A.
|
Failure to vaccinate
|
$150
| ||
|
B.
|
Failure to quarantine
|
$150
| ||
|
§ 230-10
|
Licensing
| |||
|
A.
|
Individual
|
$50
| ||
|
B.
|
Fancier
|
$150
| ||
|
C.
|
Commercial animal establishment
|
$250
| ||
|
§ 230-11
|
Animal care (per offense)
|
$35
| ||
|
§ 230-11G
|
Animal riding in an open vehicle
|
$50
| ||
|
§ 230-12
|
Animal at large
|
$50
| ||
|
§ 230-12.1
|
Female in season
|
$50
| ||
|
§ 230-12.2
|
Allowing an animal to urinate/defecate on private property
|
$50
| ||
|
§ 230-12.3
|
Allowing an animal to defecate on public property
|
$50
| ||
|
§ 230-12.4
|
Subsection A(1) through (8)
|
$50
| ||
|
§ 230-12.4
|
Subsection A(9); Public nuisance violation of the Board's
order (requires an appearance before the Board)
|
$50 to $200
| ||
|
§ 230-12.5
|
Dangerous and/or vicious or potentially dangerous (requires
an appearance before the Board)
|
$50 to $1,000
| ||
|
§ 230-12.5
|
Failing to comply with the Charles County animal regulations
in the keeping of dangerous and/or vicious or potentially dangerous
animals (requires an appearance before the Board)
|
$200 to $1,000
| ||
No statement, provision or regulation set forth herein shall
be construed to prevent the County Commissioners of Charles County,
Maryland, from entering into a contract with an outside service for
the enforcement of this article.
A.
Any person, partnership, corporation or other legal entity served
with a citation for an alleged violation of any of the provisions
of this article shall be subject to payment of a fine as specified
on the citation form or must appear before the Animal Matters Hearing
Board to answer the complaint. Failure to appear before the Board
when ordered to do so, and/or after having failed to pay the fine
as specified on the citation form within the time specified on the
citation, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by not more
than 60 days in jail, a fine of $300, or both.
B.
Any person, partnership, corporation or other legal entity willfully
failing to comply with any lawful order of the Board shall be guilty
of a misdemeanor punishable by not more than 60 days in jail, a fine
of $300, or both.
C.
Charges under this section will be referred to the State's Attorney's
Office for prosecution in the District Court of Maryland for Charles
County.
[Adopted 7-16-1986 by Ord. No. 86-38]
No dog shall be permitted to run at large within Lynnbrook Subdivision,
said neighborhood being more particularly shown on attached plats
marked as Exhibits Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 4.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Exhibits Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 4 are on file
in the County offices.
All dogs shall be confined to the property of their owner or
the person who has possession or control of such dogs except when
under the control of the owner or an authorized agent of the owner
by leash, cord or chain.
Any dog found off the dog owner's property and not under
the owner's or his agent's control by leash, cord or chain
shall be deemed a public nuisance and subject to the penalties contained
in the dog regulations for Charles County.[1]
Any dog owner failing to comply with the provisions of this
article shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to a fine of
not more than $25 for each offense.
