Loading articles...

RMWB Council to review pet ownership bylaw

Last Updated Nov 19, 2019 at 5:57 am MDT

PHOTO. Council meets to hear the third and final reading of an amendment to the Animal Control Bylaw, called the "Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw." Heather Williams. PROMOTIONS MANAGER.

Mayor and council will hear a third and final reading of the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw on Nov. 19, 2019.

If passed, the bylaw would replace the current Animal Control Bylaw.

The motion also made changes and clarifications for items such as animal limitations and fines.

Animal Control

Since the first reading in June, the administration found the bylaw required several amendments.

Each residence may have up to four licensed animals, such as cats and dogs.

However, the bylaw contains a section granting owners an exemption to keep up to six licensed animals from the Bylaw Program Supervisor.

Furthermore, the supervisor cannot waive the limit on residences with two outdoor animals.

The Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw includes responsibilities of animal owners, a list of fines, and another list for prohibited animals.

An item of note is that an annually renewable pet license is valid for one year from the date of purchase.

Also, increased regulation of off-leash areas would allow bylaw services the ability to address any issues that occur at the public amenity.

A person may not have more than three dogs in their care or control in these areas.

Finally, the Bylaw would define Nuisance and Vicious Animals and the appeal process through the Community Standards Appeal Committee.

The fine for failing to clean up after an animal on a property not belonging to the owner is $250.

Whereas, the fine for a vicious animal attack is $2,000.

133 residents attended seven public sessions about the proposed bylaw.

Residents also completed 796 surveys.

RMWB Council will also hear the quarterly report and a presentation from the Wood Buffalo RCMP.