It is the purpose of this article to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare, and to minimize the possibility of the transmission of rabies and other diseases from bats to humans.
(1972 Code, sec. 13-1/2-21; Ordinance 349 adopted 3/4/1986; 1995 Code, sec. 94.01)
For the purpose of this article, the following definitions shall apply, unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning:
Bat.
A mouse-like flying mammal with a furry body and membranous wings.
Control.
Methods used to prevent the entrance of bats in buildings and other structures.
Health authority.
The director of the Angelina County and Cities Health District or authorized representative.
Person.
Any individual, partnership, corporation, association, trustee or other legal entity that has primary responsibility for a building or structure.
Professional.
Someone qualified and trained in the control, handling and habits of bats.
(1972 Code, sec. 13-1/2-22; Ordinance 349 adopted 3/4/1986; 1995 Code, sec. 94.02)
(a) 
Any person who receives information of the existence of bats in a building or structure shall immediately take steps to control the presence of the bats. “Control measures” shall mean the closing of all openings whereby the bats cannot reenter the building or structure.
(b) 
The final closing of the openings shall be performed after sunset when the bats have left their roosting place to feed, and/or, if practical, in the fall when the bats migrate and the young have learned to fly.
(c) 
All openings to the outside of the building or structure where the bats are roosting shall be sealed by caulking, screening, weather-stripping, insulation or any effective means.
(d) 
Lethal methods shall not be utilized to control bats, except when necessary as approved by the health authority.
(e) 
The health authority shall have the authority to enter any building or structure when information is received of the existence of bats in a building or structure.
(1972 Code, sec. 13-1/2-24; Ordinance 349 adopted 3/4/1986; 1995 Code, sec. 94.03)
(a) 
The removal or handling of live bats shall be performed only by a professional, except as provided in section 6.07.004(a). Bat guano (bat droppings) shall be removed only under the direction or supervision of a professional.
(b) 
After batproofing has been completed and the bats have left their roosting place, the person shall have the building or structure sprayed or fumigated by a pest control professional to insure any ticks, mites or other insects that may have dropped from the bats are eliminated.
(1972 Code, sec. 13-1/2-25; Ordinance 349 adopted 3/4/1986; 1995 Code, sec. 94.04)