The keeping of dangerous wild animals by a person(s) as listed above within the city limits is hereby found to constitute a public nuisance because it creates an unacceptable and unreasonable risk of harm to the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of the city.

(Ordinance 2015-05-18, sec. 1, adopted 5/18/15)

§ 2.903 Exceptions.

This article does not apply to any keeping of such animals in a bona fide licensed veterinary hospital for treatment, bona fide educational, research or medical institutions, museums, or any other place where they are kept as live exhibits or for study; circus, carnival, zoo or television or motion-picture production company during filming, which is authorized by the proper and responsible official or officials of the city in accordance with all applicable laws and ordinances, provided that proper bond or insurance be posted, to indemnify those who may be injured or killed by dangerous animals. The type and amount of such bond or insurance shall be determined by the city attorney, except where otherwise provided by ordinance.

(Ordinance 2015-05-18, sec. 1, adopted 5/18/15)

§ 2.904 Violation and Penalty.

(a)

Notice of violation shall be issued by the animal control officer and/or code enforcement officer and/or enforcement officer whenever such authorized officer determines that any violation of this article has occurred and he or she sends a written notice to the violator(s).

(b)

A penalty for violation of this article shall be between one dollar ($1.00) and five hundred dollars ($500.00), unless the complaint alleges that the offense was committed intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly, in which case, penalty shall be from one dollar ($1.00) to two thousand dollars ($2,000.00). Each day that a violation continues after due notice as been served shall be deemed a new violation.

(c)

Violation or threatened violation of this article may be enjoined by civil action.

(Ordinance 2015-05-18, sec. 1, adopted 5/18/15)