Cross References: Administration, Title I; buildings and building regulations, Title V; cemeteries, Ch. 145; garbage and refuse as a public nuisance, § 220.030; nuisances, Ch. 220; parks and recreation, Ch. 245; streets, sidewalks and other public places, Ch. 535; zoning, Ch. 400.
[Ord. No. 2021-3241, 11-23-2021]
A. 
A person commits the offense of animal abuse if he or she:
1. 
Intentionally or purposely kills an animal in any manner not allowed by or expressly exempted from the provisions of Sections 578.005 to 578.023 and 273.030, RSMo.;
2. 
Purposely or intentionally causes injury or suffering to an animal; or
3. 
Having ownership or custody of an animal knowingly fails to provide adequate care which results in substantial harm to the animal.
B. 
Tethering Dogs.
1. 
Any dog permitted to be kept within the City shall not be chained, tied, fastened or otherwise tethered to any stationary or inanimate object as a means of confinement and restraint to property.
2. 
Exceptions.
a. 
Tethering shall be allowed on rare occasions when it is necessary for the dog owner or custodian to complete a temporary task that requires the dog to be physically restrained but shall not be for more than a reasonable time.
b. 
Tethering shall be allowed for short periods of time, not to exceed thirty (30) minutes, for the purpose of the dog to relieve itself.
c. 
When a dog is tethered as allowed in the above exceptions, the dog must be tethered by a non-choke type collar or a body harness to a tether that is at least three (3) times the body length of the dog, measured from the dog's nose to the back of the hindquarters and which tether is free from any objects that could cause entanglement or strangulation. The tether shall be proportional to the size and weigh no more than one-eighth (1/8) of the dog's body weight.
d. 
When a dog is tethered as allowed in the above exceptions, any person having custody of such animal shall provide adequate shelter and adequate water for the dog, as defined in Section 210.150. This Section shall not apply to dogs used by law enforcement agencies in the performance of their duties, service dogs, or any facility in the City licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture, Missouri Department of Agriculture, or the Missouri Board of Veterinary Medicine.
C. 
When riding outside the passenger compartment or in a fully enclosed area of a vehicle in transit or when tethered to a legally parked or otherwise situated vehicle, a dog must be secured by a non-choke type collar or body harness, such that the dog cannot reach past the edge of any of the sides of the vehicle. Reference Aurora City Codes, Section 210.090(A)(8).
D. 
Any person found guilty of a violation prescribed in this Section shall, upon conviction thereof, be punished as provided by Section 100.220, and each and every instance of violation shall be a separate offense.
[1]
Note: Under certain circumstances this offense can be a felony under state law.
[R.O. 1993 § 210.020; Code 1970 § 22-8; CC 1988 § 4-2]
A. 
Dogfighting — Penalty.
1. 
A person commits the offense of dogfighting if he or she:
a. 
Owns, possesses, keeps, or trains any dog, with the intent that such dog shall be engaged in an exhibition of fighting with another dog;
b. 
For amusement or gain, causes any dog to fight with another dog, or causes any dogs to injure each other; or
c. 
Permits any act as described in Subsection (A)(1)(a) or (b) of this Section to be done on any premises under his or her charge or control, or aids or abets any such act.
2. 
The offense of dogfighting is a Class E felony.
B. 
Spectating Dogfighting — Penalty.
1. 
A person commits the offense of spectating dogfighting if he or she is knowingly present, as a spectator, at any place, building, or structure where preparations are being made for an exhibition of the fighting of dogs, with the intent to be present at such preparations, or is knowingly present at such exhibition or at any other fighting or injuring as described in Subsection (A)(1)(b) of this Section, with the intent to be present at such exhibition, fighting, or injuring.
2. 
The offense of spectating dogfighting is a Class A misdemeanor.
3. 
Nothing in this Subsection shall be construed to prohibit:
a. 
The use of dogs in the management of livestock by the owner of such livestock, his or her employees or agents, or other persons in lawful custody of such livestock;
b. 
The use of dogs in hunting; or
c. 
The training of dogs or the use of equipment in the training of dogs for any purpose not prohibited by law.
[1]
Cross Reference: Offenses, Ch. 215.
[R.O. 1993 § 210.030; Code 1972 § 22-8; CC 1988 § 4-3; Ord. No. 2004-2597 § I, 9-28-2004]
A. 
It is unlawful for any person to keep or use, or in any way be connected with or interested in the management of, or to receive money for the admission of any person to any place kept or used for the purpose of fighting or baiting any bull, bear, cock or other creature, except dogs.
B. 
It shall be unlawful for any person to encourage, aid or assist or be present thereat, or to permit or suffer any place belonging to him or her or under his or her control to be so kept or used.
[1]
Cross Reference: Offenses, Ch. 215.
[R.O. 1993 § 210.040; Code 1972 § 4-5; CC 1988 § 4-4; Ord. No. 2004-2597 § I, 9-28-2004]
No person shall at any time ride, drive or permit to be ridden or driven any horse, pony or mule over or upon any sidewalk within the City. Nor shall any person permit such an animal to run at large over any sidewalk.
[1]
Cross Reference: Streets, sidewalks and other public places, Ch. 535.
[R.O. 1993 § 210.050; Code 1972 § 4-8; CC 1988 § 4-5; Ord. No. 2004-2597 § I, 9-28-2004]
A. 
No person shall own, keep or use any yard, pen or place on his or her premises, or on premises occupied by him or her or under his or her charge or control, in this City in or upon which any number of cattle, swine, horses, sheep, boars or other animals, or any kind of fowl unless said premises is zoned "A-1" Agricultural or has an appropriately approved commercial zoning for such activities. Such premises shall be kept in such a manner as to not become offensive or annoying to the public or persons residing in this City or to emit any offensive or unhealthy smell or odor.
B. 
Any person violating any provision of this Section shall upon conviction be deemed guilty of committing a nuisance.
[1]
Cross Reference: Nuisances, Ch. 220.
[R.O. 1993 § 210.060; Code 1972 § 4-9; CC 1988 § 4-6; Ord. No. 2004-2597 § I, 9-28-2004]
A. 
No person shall be allowed to erect or maintain any house, pen or place for the slaughter of any cattle, hogs, sheep or other animals, and no person shall slaughter any such cattle, hogs, sheep or other animals within the City.
B. 
Any person violating any provisions of this Section shall upon conviction be deemed guilty of committing a nuisance.
[1]
Cross Reference: Nuisances, Ch. 220.
[R.O. 1993 § 210.070; Code 1972 § 4-13; CC 1988 § 4-7; Ord. No. 2004-2597 § I, 9-28-2004]
A. 
The owner or person having charge of any dead animal shall within twenty-four (24) hours cause the carcass to be removed from the City. In no case shall such owner or person permit such carcass to remain in the open air in this City until it becomes offensive in smell.
B. 
Any person violating any provision of this Section shall upon conviction be deemed guilty of committing a nuisance.
[1]
Cross Reference: Nuisances, Ch. 220.
[R.O. 1993 § 210.075; Ord. No. 2004-2614 § I, 10-26-2004, effective 1-1-2005; Ord. No. 2006-2745 § I, 11-28-2006]
A. 
License Requirements. All dogs and cats six (6) months of age and older being kept or harbored in the City of Aurora must be licensed. Upon proof of initial rabies vaccination as required by ordinance, a one-year license will be issued for the dog or cat. Upon a rabies booster vaccination at one (1) year as required by ordinance, a three-year license will be issued. The license must be renewed every three (3) years when the required rabies vaccination is obtained. Unlicensed dogs and cats that have been previously vaccinated for rabies can be issued a license upon proof of vaccination for the duration of the remaining effective vaccine immunization period. No other prorating of license fees is permitted.
B. 
License Fees.
License Period
Spayed/Neutered
Non-Spayed/Neutered
1-year license
$3.00
$5.00
3-year license
$9.00
$15.00
Partial 3-year license
$3.00 per year
$5.00 per year
C. 
Administrative Fees. A fee of one dollar ($1.00) will be added to the issuance of each license as compensation for the issuing private entity.
D. 
Obtaining Licenses. Dog and cat licenses are issued by licensed practicing veterinary clinics in the City of Aurora. The City of Aurora will provide all necessary licenses and tags for issuance by the approved clinics.
E. 
Remittance Of Fees To The City. All approved veterinarian clinics will be required to remit all fees for licenses and tags to the City of Aurora on a quarterly basis.
F. 
Proof of licensing shall be produced upon request of animal control officer or other appropriate City Official.
G. 
Enforcement — Penalties. The Police Department is hereby authorized and directed to carry out and enforce all of the provisions of this Article. Upon conviction of a violation of this Section 210.080, the minimum fine shall be not less than one dollar ($1.00) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500.00) for each separate violation.
[R.O. 1993 § 210.080; Code 1972 § 4-14; CC 1988 § 4-26; Ord. No. 2004-2597, 9-28-2004; Ord. No. 2004-2619 § I, 10-26-2004]
A. 
All of the owners of animals in the City of Aurora, Missouri are encouraged to exercise responsible animal ownership. Every person who is the owner of any animal(s), and who resides or maintains such animal(s) within the City, is responsible for the control and behavior of their animal(s), and must avoid having such animal(s) create a nuisance for other property/occupants.
B. 
Every person who is the owner of a dog(s), or has in his or her charge any dog(s), and who resides or maintains such dog(s) within the City, is required to keep such dog(s) confined to the owner's premises at all times, or confined to a leash, or portable kennel when taken off the premises in the company of the animal's owner or custodian.
A. 
The City shall take up and impound in a suitable place, the location of which place shall be given by a notice posted in some conspicuous place in City Hall, all dogs found running at large in the City, and they shall keep such dogs for a period of one week, and at the expiration of such period may put such dogs to death by humane methods.
B. 
The owner of any such impounded dogs, upon the payment of the tax herein provided, may redeem such impounded dog.
[R.O. 1993 § 210.110; Code 1972 § 4-17; CC 1988 § 4-29; Ord. No. 2004-2597 § I, 9-28-2004; Ord. No. 2004-2619 § I, 10-26-2004; Ord. No. 2007-2758 § I, 5-8-2007]
At the end of the holding period mentioned in Section 210.100, any animal(s) not redeemed will be taken to the Southwest Missouri Humane Society surrendered to C.A.R.E. or other such approved animal shelter or adopted to responsible citizens or humanely euthanized by a licensed veterinarian.
[R.O. 1993 § 210.120; Code 1972 § 4-18; CC 1988 § 4-30; Ord. No. 92-2075, 5-11-1992; Ord. No. 2004-2597 § I, 9-28-2004; Ord. No. 2004-2619 § I, 10-26-2004]
The owner or custodian may reclaim any dog impounded in the Animal Pound by presenting to the City, or its agent in charge of the Animal Pound, sufficient evidence of ownership, evidence of compliance with vaccination requirements contained in Section 210.200(B). In addition, payment is required of a redemption fee of ten dollars ($10.00), plus any penalty assessed under Section 210.140(B), plus the sum of two dollars ($2.00) per day for each day the animal is impounded to pay for the cost of feeding during impoundment. The payment of any fees for redemption requirements shall not constitute a bar to the prosecution for violation of any of the provisions of this Chapter.
[R.O. 1993 § 210.130; Code 1972 § 4-19; CC 1988 § 4-31; Ord. No. 90-1997 § 2, 2-12-1990; Ord. No. 2004-2597 § I, 9-28-2004; Ord. No. 2004-2619 § I, 10-26-2004]
A. 
No person who is the owner or is responsible for or has in his or her charge any animal(s), who is kept or maintained and resides in the City of Aurora, Missouri and such animal(s) by loud, frequent, habitual barking, howling or yelping, or making other offensive noises or sounds which shall annoy, or cause damage to the property of, or disturb the peace, or otherwise annoy or disturb or destroy the property of any person or neighborhood shall be punished in accordance with the penalty as expressed in Subsection (B) of this Section.
B. 
Upon a written and signed complaint by the party complaining using the proper and usual Police procedure of reporting a property owner/occupant, a representative of the City shall first attempt to contact the owner of the offending animal(s) with a directive to abate the nuisance. If the owner cannot be determined, an animal control officer shall attempt to collect the offending animal(s). Any animal(s) collected will be impounded according to Section 210.100. The penalty for violations of this Section shall be no more than twenty-five dollars ($25.00) for the first offense, and no more than fifty dollars ($50.00) for a second offense within six (6) months of the first.
C. 
After three (3) days' notice by the City or a representative thereof to the owner or possessor of such animal(s), or the person occupying the premises where the animal(s) is located, of a violation of Subsection (A), it shall be prima facie evidence of the causing, allowing or permitting by such owner or possessor, so notified, of such violation unless the nuisance has been abated.
[1]
Cross Reference: Nuisances, Ch. 220.
[R.O. 1993 § 210.140; Code 1972 § 4-20; CC 1988 § 4-32; Ord. No. 2004-2597 § I, 9-28-2004; Ord. No. 2004-2619 § I, 10-28-2004; Ord. No. 2010-2889 § 1, 12-14-2010; Ord. No. 2015-3031 § 1, 6-9-2015]
Every person keeping or maintaining animal(s) shall keep the barn, shed, kennel, cattery or pen in which such animal(s) are kept or maintained in a clean and sanitary condition so that the same will not emit foul or disagreeable odors and shall not permit any concentration of manure. Such enclosure shall be large enough to humanely accommodate the animal(s). Keeping or maintaining five (5) or more animals shall be deemed to be operating a kennel which is only authorized in an appropriately zoned area.
[R.O. 1993 § 210.145; Ord. No. 2015-3031 § 1, 6-9-2015]
A. 
No household located within the Single-Family Residential Districts, "R-1," Zoned District shall possess more than four (4) dogs, or four (4) cats, or a combination of either dogs or cats, provided the combination of animals shall not exceed more than four (4) animals.
B. 
No household located within the Two-Family Residential Districts, "R-2" or Multiple-Family Residential Districts, "R3" Zone Districts shall possess more than two (2) dogs, or two (2) cats or a combination of either dog or cat, provided the combination of animals shall not exceed more than two (2) animals.
C. 
Any household that has more than the prescribed numbers of animals at the time of the enactment of the ordinance from which this Section is derived June 9, 2015, may continue to keep the same number of dogs or cats, provided such persons register these animals with the City in accordance with the prescribed procedures set forth herein within six (6) months after the passage of such ordinance upon payment of all associated fees; provided, however, in no event shall such person add to or replace such animal.
D. 
The City will not issue any business license to operate a kennel within any residential area of the City.
[R.O. 1993 § 210.160; CC 1988 § 4-34; Ord. No. 92-2075, 5-11-1992; Ord. No. 2004-2597 § I, 9-28-2004]
A. 
It is unlawful for any person to own, harbor or possess a vicious dog; except as allowed by the provisions of this Section of the City Code. The Municipal Court Judge may declare a dog vicious:
1. 
When evidence shows an attack or bite to a human is unprovoked;
2. 
When evidence shows an attack upon another domestic animal is unprovoked;
3. 
In the absence of a bite, when sufficient evidence is presented to show the dog or dogs display characteristics such as habitually snapping, charging, growling; or
4. 
Otherwise manifests a disposition to bite, attack or injure any person or domestic animal or pet if afforded the opportunity, or if in the judgment of the court it causes any person to have a reasonable fear of immediate serious physical injury.
B. 
It is unlawful for any person to violate any restriction imposed by this Section after a dog has been declared a vicious dog by order of the Municipal Court.
C. 
Following the filing of charges under this Section, upon the affidavit of the Animal Control Officer or Police Officer alleging the dog is a vicious dog and upon the motion of the prosecutor, the Judge of the Municipal Court may order any of the following:
1. 
That the dog be seized and impounded;
2. 
That the dog be impounded past the ten-day rabies observation period; or
3. 
That the dog be impounded during the pendency of charges and not be released while the charges are pending without order of the Municipal Judge.
D. 
Any dog declared vicious by the Judge of the Municipal Court may be ordered humanely euthanized immediately.
E. 
Any dog owner who owns, keeps or harbors a dog declared vicious by the Judge of the Municipal Court and not ordered euthanized and as a condition of residing within the corporate limits of Aurora shall be required to meet the following mandated restrictions:
1. 
The dog or dogs must receive an identification microchip implant within one (1) week of the order of the Municipal Court. The microchip used must be approved by the Animal Control Officer and implanted by a licensed veterinarian. It shall be a violation of the City Code for a microchip to be removed unless it is for a medical reason and then only by a licensed practicing veterinarian. The Animal Control Officer must be notified immediately of said removal.
2. 
The dog or dogs shall be securely confined indoors or in a securely enclosed and locked kennel or cage. The kennel or cage shall be the size appropriate to the size of the dog or dogs kept therein and shall provide adequate ventilation, shade from the sun and protection from the elements. In the event of a dispute over the appropriate size, the guidelines of the Missouri Department of Agriculture Regulations for Animal Care Facilities shall apply. The kennel or cage must be constructed with nine-gauge steel chain link. Such kennel or cage must have secure sides, a secure top and secure bottom or floor attached to the sides, or sides must be embedded in the ground. In addition, the kennel or cage must have a double-blind entrance and must be locked with a key or a combination lock when such dog or dogs are within the structure. Any such kennel or cage must be located on the back half of the concerned property at least twenty-five (25) feet from the nearest point to the dwelling of another, a church, a school or place of business of another and must comply with all zoning and building regulations of the City.
3. 
The dog or dogs shall not be allowed by remedy to be removed from the City to a location outside the City limits.
F. 
Any dog declared vicious by the Judge of the Municipal Court and not ordered euthanized, and as a condition of residing within the corporate limits of Aurora may be required to meet any or all of the following restrictions:
1. 
The dog or dogs shall be spayed or neutered within one (1) week of the ruling unless a duly licensed veterinarian documents to the Animal Control Officer that medical conditions of the dog contradict sterilization. Such sterilization shall require surgical removal of the gonads. Verification that sterilization has taken place shall be presented to the Animal Control Officer by the licensed practicing veterinarian performing the procedure.
2. 
The dog or dogs shall be registered with the City of Aurora each year with the annual fee to be set at fifty dollars ($50.00).
3. 
All owners, keepers or harborers of any vicious dog must maintain in effect public liability insurance in a single incident amount of one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000.00) for bodily injury to or death of any person or persons or for damage to property owned by any persons which may result from the ownership, keeping or maintenance of such dog. A surety bond or letter of credit of one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000.00) may be substituted for the insurance policy. All owners, keepers or harborers of vicious dogs shall present to the Animal Control Officer a statement from all parties involved certifying that they have the required insurance policy, surety bond or letter of credit within ten (10) days of the dog being declared vicious.
4. 
When confined indoors, no vicious dog or dogs may be kept on a porch, patio or in any part of the house, building or structure that would allow the dog or dogs to exit such building on its own volition. No such dog or dogs may be kept in a house, building or structure when the windows are open. No vicious dog may be kept in a house, building or structure when screen windows or screen doors are the only obstacles preventing the dog from exiting the structure.
5. 
No person shall permit a vicious dog or dogs to go outside its kennel, cage or secure structure unless that person has the dog or dogs securely leashed to a buckle collar and on a leash no longer than six (6) feet in length and that person has physical control of the dog. Such dogs shall not be leashed to inanimate objects such as trees, posts and buildings. Additionally, all such dogs on a leash outside the dog's kennel, cage or secure structure must be muzzled by a humane muzzling device sufficient to prevent the dog from biting persons or other animals.
6. 
The premises on which the dog or dogs are kept shall be clearly posted with signage warning the public of the following:
WARNING
A DOG IS PRESENT ON THIS PROPERTY
THAT HAS BEEN DECLARED VICIOUS
BY THE AURORA MUNICIPAL COURT
The sign shall be visible and capable of being read from the street, road or highway that abuts the premises. In addition, the sign must include a picture or symbol that conveys the idea of a vicious dog to small children that cannot read.
7. 
Any dog or dogs declared vicious by the Municipal Court cannot be sold, given away, or ownership otherwise transferred without the expressed permission of the Animal Control Officer.
8. 
To assure compliance with the court-ordered restrictions, the Animal Control Officer is hereby authorized to conduct unannounced inspections of such frequency so as to determine if said restrictions are being met.
9. 
Refusal or failure to comply with any of the mandated or court-ordered restrictions or authorized inspection shall constitute a violation of the City Code and, in addition, shall be considered as justifiable grounds for the Judge of the Municipal Court to order further restrictions or euthanization of the dog or dogs.
G. 
Any dog or dogs maintained and utilized by any governmental law enforcement agency shall not be considered a vicious dog so long as it is maintained and utilized for law enforcement purposes.
[R.O. 1993 § 210.170; CC 1988 § 4-35; Ord. No. 92-2075, 5-11-1992; Ord. No. 2004-2597 § I, 9-28-2004]
It is unlawful for any unauthorized person to break open the pound or to attempt to do so, to take or let out any animals therefrom, or to take or attempt to take from any officer any dog taken up by him or her in compliance with this Chapter or in any matter whatever to interfere with or hinder such officer in the discharge of his or her duties under the provisions of this Chapter.
[R.O. 1993 § 210.180; Code 1972 § 4-22; CC 1988 §§ 4-46 — 4-48; Ord. No. 86-1905 § 2, 4-28-1986; Ord. No. 92-2075, 5-11-1992; Ord. No. 2004-2597 § I, 9-28-2004]
A. 
Definitions. For purposes of this Section, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them by this Subsection:
AFFECTED WITH RABIES
Infected with the rabies virus as determined by standard laboratory testing.
RABIES
Hydrophobia.
B. 
Vaccination Required.
1. 
Every person residing within the City owning, keeping, harboring or permitting a dog or cat to remain on premises shall have every such animal vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinary in compliance with Section III of the Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control issued by the National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians. In summary, all dogs and cats over the age of three (3) months shall be vaccinated with an appropriately licensed vaccine. Every animal shall receive a booster vaccination one (1) year after initial vaccination, regardless of age at initial vaccination or product used, and triennial vaccinations thereafter. Should there be a rabies epidemic in the City and quarantine is declared, all dogs and cats whose vaccination is more than twelve (12) months old shall immediately be revaccinated according to recommendations by the State Public Health Department.
2. 
Vaccinated animals shall be identified with metal or plastic tags or microchips. The City hereby adopts the standard tag system put forth in the Compendium of Animal Rabies Prevention and Control to aid in the administration of animal rabies control procedures. A rabies certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian may also serve as proof of vaccination.
C. 
Management Of Animals That Bite.
1. 
A healthy dog or cat or ferret that bites a person shall be confined and observed daily for ten (10) days at the animal pound or at a licensed veterinary facility at the owner's expense. Such animal shall be evaluated by a veterinarian at the first sign of illness during confinement. Any illness in the animal shall be reported immediately to the local Health Department. If signs suggestive of rabies develop, the animal shall be euthanized, prepared and shipped for testing at a State-approved laboratory by a licensed veterinarian. Any stray or unwanted dog or cat or ferret that bites a person shall be euthanized and the head submitted for rabies examination.
2. 
Other biting animals, which might have exposed a person to rabies, shall be reported immediately to the local Health Department. Prior vaccination of an animal may not preclude the necessity for euthanasia and testing if the period of virus shedding is unknown for that species. Management of animals other than dogs, cats and ferrets will be deferred to State or local Health Department officials.
[R.O. 1993 § 210.190; Ord. No. 98-2340 § 1, 9-8-1998; Ord. No. 2004-2597 § I, 9-28-2004]
A. 
Adoption Policy. Responsible persons may adopt a pet from the Aurora Municipal Animal Facility in accordance with the following regulations:
1. 
Persons must be eighteen (18) years of age or older to adopt. In some cases, proof of age is required.
2. 
Valid identification must be provided with name and present address.
3. 
No persons under the influence of alcohol or drugs can adopt.
4. 
Animals must be spayed or neutered within four (4) months of adoption. Failure to provide proof of such procedure will result in a fine of fifty dollars ($50.00) and surrender of the animal to the Animal Control Officer.
5. 
Dogs are not allowed to go out as guard dogs or to be trained as an attack dog. Watch dogs are acceptable.
6. 
The adopters are required to take the animal(s) for a medical checkup within ten (10) days of the adoption date.
7. 
The adopter is allowed to exchange for another animal within thirty (30) days of the adoption date. If the exchange is made within thirty (30) days, the adopter is allowed up to six (6) months to adopt another animal but the adoption fee is not refunded. The only exception will be a pup/dog that is claimed by the owner.
8. 
The City of Aurora does not guarantee the health of any animal. Adopters are responsible for all medical care required by the adopted animal. The City does not test for heartworms, internal parasites or give rabies shots. The City of Aurora is not responsible for fees incurred by the adopter.
9. 
If a previous animal in the adopter's home has died of an airborne disease, adopters must wait one (1) month before any animals of the same kind can be brought into the home unless they have permission from their veterinarian.
10. 
Puppies that are six (6) to eight (8) weeks of age can only be left alone for four (4) hours a day at the most.
11. 
The adopter must relinquish animal to its rightful owner if it is claimed within fourteen (14) days of the adoption date.
12. 
The City of Aurora reserves the right to refuse adoption.
13. 
Although the adoption fees are required in advance, the adopted animal is not legally owned by the adopters until the spaying or neutering has been completed.
14. 
The City of Aurora may examine and inquire about said animal at any time. If not satisfied with the conditions, said animal shall be returned to the City.
15. 
Adopters must sign a written contract with the City.
16. 
Adopters must not sell, trade or abandon said animal in any way.
17. 
No person or persons shall be allowed to adopt more than two (2) dogs in a twelve-month period.
B. 
Fees.
1. 
Adoption charge: fifteen dollars ($15.00).
[R.O. 1993 § 210.200; Ord. No. 2004-2597 § I, 9-28-2004; Ord. No. 2020-3193, 8-11-2020[1]]
A. 
Purpose. The purpose of this Section is to protect the public health from disease transmission, animal bites, animal attacks and other serious injury, and public nuisances arising from the keeping or escape of non-domesticated animals.
B. 
Definition. Non-domesticated animals include:
1. 
Wild Animals: any wild animal, mammal, reptile, or fowl which is not naturally tame or gentle, but is of a wild nature or disposition, and which, because of its size, vicious nature, or other characteristics would constitute a danger to human life or property.
2. 
The term includes animals and birds, the keeping of which is licensed by the State or Federal government, such as wolves, raptors, and pheasants. By way of example and not of limitation, the term includes eagles, weasels, wild ferrets, badgers, bears, monkeys, capuchins, chimpanzees, alligators, crocodiles, raccoons, beavers, otters, opossum, and hedgehogs.
C. 
Prohibited Animals. No person, firm, corporation or other business shall keep, maintain, or harbor within the City of Aurora, any of the following animals:
1. 
Any animal or species prohibited by Federal or Missouri law.
2. 
Any non-domesticated animal or species, including, but not limited to, the following:
a. 
Any skunk, whether captured in the wild, domestically raised, de-scented or not de-scented, vaccinated against rabies or not vaccinated against rabies.
b. 
Any large cat of the Felidae family, such as, but not limited to, lions, panthers, tigers, jaguars, leopards, cougars, and ocelots, except commonly accepted domesticated house cats.
c. 
Any member of the Canidae family, such as, but not limited to, wolves, foxes, coyotes, dingoes, jackals, any crossbreed such as crossbreeds between dogs and coyotes, and dogs and wolves, except domesticated dogs.
d. 
Any poisonous snake or pit viper, such as, but not limited to, rattlesnakes, coral snakes, water moccasins, or cobras.
e. 
Any other animal which is not listed explicitly above, but which can reasonably be defined by the terms in Section 210.220 of this Chapter.
D. 
Selling Prohibited. No person, firm, corporation or other business shall sell, offer for sale, or in any way transfer ownership or possession of any animal prohibited listed in Subsection (A)(1), Wild Animals and Subsection (C) of this Section, except as provided for in Subsection (E).
E. 
Exceptions. The following non-domesticated animals shall be exempt from the provisions of Sections 210.210 through 210.290 of this Chapter and may be kept within the City of Aurora.
1. 
Non-domesticated animals brought into the City of Aurora for entertainment, exhibition, show, promotional or education purposes, provided such animals are kept within an enclosure or other secure method of storage.
2. 
Non-domesticated animals for sale or display in commercial pet stores, commercial farm stores, and farmers’ markets provided that prior to a sale of any such non-domesticated animal to a person, firm or corporation who intends to keep such animal in the City limits of Aurora, the pet store shall be required to give the buyer a photocopy of this Section.
3. 
Non-domesticated animals kept in a public zoo or other public or non-profit institution engaged in the permanent display of non-domesticated animals.
4. 
Non-domesticated animals kept temporarily for a public zoo by volunteers under a designated volunteer program, provided that prior to the storage in the City of Aurora, such volunteer informs the Aurora Animal Control Officer of its presence.
5. 
All non-domesticated animals kept by veterinary clinics or other research institutions which are affiliated with a college or other institute of higher education, provided that adequate measures are taken to prevent such animals from escaping or injuring the general public.
F. 
Impounding Of Non-Domesticated Animals. Any non-domesticated animal kept in violation of this Section may be impounded by the City, and after being so impounded for five (5) days or more without being reclaimed by the owner, maybe sold or destroyed. Any person reclaiming such impounded animal shall pay the costs of impounding and keeping the same and shall provide documentation of the animal’s relocation outside of the City.
G. 
Existing Non-Domesticated Animals. Any person keeping or maintaining any non-domesticated animal in violation of this Section at the time this Section is adopted, shall within ninety (90) days of its passage, take such actions as may be required to be in compliance with this Section.
H. 
Harboring Wild/Non-Domesticated Animals.
1. 
No person shall own, keep or use any yard, pen or place on his/her premises, or premises occupied by him/her or under his/her charge or control in this City, in or upon which any non-domesticated animals shall be kept.
2. 
Should there be a dispute as to whether an animal is a non-traditional domesticated or non-domesticated, that issue will be brought before the Aurora City Council for a determination. If deemed a non-traditional domesticated animal by the Aurora City Council, a permit may be issued by the Animal Control Officer with City Council approval on a case-by-case basis.
3. 
Any animal deemed a threat to the public health will be immediately surrendered to the Animal Control Officer or appropriate State Conservation or Humane Society Official to be housed at an appropriately licensed facility until permanent resolution can be made.
I. 
Penalty. Violation of any provision of this Section shall be considered a misdemeanor.
[1]
Editor's Note: Ord. No. 2020-3193 also changed the title of this Section from "Harboring Wild/Non-Domestic Animals" to "Non-Domesticated Animals."
[Ord. No. 2020-3194, 8-11-2020]
A. 
Purpose. The purpose of this Section is to provide standards for the keeping of non-traditional domesticated animals within non-agricultural zoning districts within the City limits. It is intended to enable residents to keep a small number of non-traditional domestic animals on a non-commercial basis while creating standards and requirements that ensure that non-traditional domestic animals do not adversely impact the neighborhood surrounding the property on which they are kept. No person shall keep non-traditional domesticated animals unless the following regulations are followed.
B. 
Definitions. Non-traditional domesticated animals include:
1. 
Fowl: Any of various birds of the order Galliformes; especially, the common, widely domesticated chicken, including, but not limited to, chickens, ducks, turkeys, and other types of fowl.
2. 
Miniature or toy varieties of animals derived from agricultural livestock through selective breeding such as: miniature horses, miniature pigs, pygmy goats and other similar animals.
3. 
Other Animals: This would include non-poisonous snakes, birds kept indoors, hamsters, mice, rats, rabbits, gerbils, guinea pigs, chinchillas or lizards, and similar small animals.
C. 
Noncommercial Use Only. Non-traditional domesticated animals shall be kept as pets and for personal use only; no person shall sell eggs or engage in breeding or fertilizer production for commercial purposes. The slaughtering of chickens or other animals is expressly prohibited in accordance with Section 210.060 of the Aurora City Code of Ordinances.
D. 
Odor And Noise Impacts. The keeping of non-traditional domesticated animals authorized under this Section shall not create a nuisance and shall be conducted in a manner that does not disturb the use of adjacent properties. Odors from non-traditional animals, manure and feces, or other animal related substances shall not be perceptible at the property boundaries. Perceptible noise from non-traditional domesticated animals shall not be loud enough at the property boundaries to disturb persons of reasonable sensitivity.
E. 
Predators, Rodents, Insects, And Parasites. The property owner and/or animal owner shall take all necessary action to reduce the attraction of predators and rodents and the potential infestation of insects and parasites. Animals found to be infested with insects and parasites that may result in unhealthy conditions to human habitation may be removed by the City, through the Animal Control Officer, or any other designee, and the cost of the same shall be borne by the property owner and/or animal owner.
F. 
Adequate Fences And Barriers. It shall be unlawful for any person to keep on their premises any non-traditional domesticated animal without providing adequate fences or barriers that will prevent such livestock from escaping and/or damaging neighboring flowers, trees, shrubbery and/or other property located on adjacent property.
G. 
Disposal Of Excrement. All manure and other excrement shall be disposed of in such a manner to prevent it from becoming a public nuisance or health hazard. With regard to public or private property, other than the owner's, the owner shall be responsible for the immediate removal of excrement.
H. 
Limitations.
1. 
The keeping of non-traditional domesticated animals shall only be approved on premises or lots that are a single-family dwelling unit with attached yards.
2. 
Chickens And Fowl — Number And Type Of Chickens Allowed.
a. 
The maximum number of chickens or fowl allowed is six (6) per lot developed with a single-family dwelling units.
b. 
Only female chickens and fowl are allowed. There is no restriction on chicken or fowl species as described in Subsection (B) of this Section.
c. 
This provision shall not apply to areas zoned "A-1," Agricultural within the incorporated areas of the City of Aurora.
3. 
Miniature Or Toy Varieties Of Animals Derived From Agricultural Livestock Through Selective Breeding — Number And Type Allowed And Rules Governing Keeping Of Such Animals.
a. 
The maximum number of these animals allowed is two (2) and the combined weight of these animals shall not exceed one hundred fifty (150) pounds.
b. 
All miniature or toy goats shall be dehorned.
c. 
All male miniature animals shall be neutered.
4. 
Other Animals.
a. 
Non-poisonous snakes, birds kept indoors, hamsters, mice, rats, rabbits, gerbils, guinea pigs, chinchillas or lizards, and similar small animals, provided such animals are maintained continuously in cages or other secure enclosures within the City of Aurora.
b. 
Rabbits kept outdoors must be kept in a secure pen or enclosure and must be maintained in accordance with Subsections (C), (D), (E), and (F) of this Section.
I. 
Enclosures.
1. 
Non-traditional domesticated animals must be kept in a fenced area or enclosure at all times. Enclosures must be clean, dry, and odor free, kept in a neat and sanitary condition, in a manner that will not disturb the use of neighboring lots due to noise, odor or other adverse impact.
2. 
The free ranging of chickens or fowl is not allowed.
3. 
Chickens and fowl shall be secured within a chicken coop during non-daylight hours.
a. 
Chickens and fowl shall be provided with a covered, predator-proof coop or cage that is well ventilated and designed to be easily accessed for cleaning. The coop shall allow at least two (2) square feet per hen. Hens shall have access to an outdoor enclosure that is adequately fenced to contain the birds on the property and to prevent predators from access to the birds.
b. 
Chicken coops are not allowed to be attached or located in any part of a dwelling unit. The coops shall be enclosed on all sides and shall have a roof and doors. The coop must be well maintained.
4. 
Miniature non-traditional domesticated animals shall be housed in a shed or covered enclosure designed to be:
a. 
Predator proof;
b. 
Thoroughly ventilated;
c. 
Easily accessed and cleaned;
d. 
A minimum of twelve (12) square feet of interior space; and
e. 
Direct access from the shed to an outdoor enclosure shall be provided with the outdoor enclosure designed to be:
(1) 
Secured with a minimum five-foot tall fence;
(2) 
A minimum area of four hundred (400) square feet;
(3) 
Secured from the outside in a manner that prevents the animals from escaping;
(4) 
Free of objects that would enable the animals, particularly goats, to climb out of the enclosure; and
(5) 
Easily accessed and cleaned.
5. 
All non-traditional domesticated animals shall be kept only in the rear or side yard behind the principle structure of the lot and must be kept on the property of the owner.
6. 
All chicken coops, fenced areas, and enclosures shall not be closer than twenty (20) feet to any property line.
J. 
Conflict Resolution. Should there be a dispute as to whether an animal is or should be defined as a non-traditional domesticated animal, that issue will be brought before the Aurora City Council for a determination. If deemed a non-traditional domesticated animal by the Aurora City Council, a permit may be issued by the Animal Control Officer with City Council approval on a case-by-case basis.
K. 
Penalty. Any person violating any provisions of this Section shall upon conviction be deemed guilty of committing a nuisance under Chapter 220, Nuisances, of the of the Aurora City Code of Ordinances. Violation of any provision of this Section shall be considered a misdemeanor.