Monday, October 21, 2024

Grant City Reminds Residents of Dog Ordinances, Violations

By the City of Grant City

As the number of dog owners in Grant City continues to grow, city officials are reminding residents of the local dog ordinances in place to ensure the safety and comfort of the community. Recently, there has been an increase in violations, prompting authorities to emphasize the importance of responsible pet ownership.

Key Ordinances Every Dog Owner Should Know:

1. Leash Laws: All dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet when in public areas. This is to ensure that dogs are under control and do not pose a threat or inconvenience to other residents. 

2. Clean-Up Requirements: Pet owners are required to immediately clean up after their dogs in all public spaces. Failure to do so not only leads to unsanitary conditions but can also result in fines. 

3. Excessive Barking: Grant City enforces a noise ordinance that prohibits dogs from barking excessively, especially during late hours. Complaints from neighbors regarding persistent barking can result in fines and legal action.

4. Licensing and Vaccination: All dogs over the age of four months must be licensed with the city. Additionally, dogs must be up to date on their rabies vaccinations. Licensing helps to ensure that lost pets can be returned to their owners quickly and allows the city to track the number of pets within the community.  All vaccination records must come from a vet.

5. Dangerous Dogs: Any dog that is deemed aggressive or has bitten a person or another animal may be classified as dangerous. Owners of dangerous dogs are subject to additional regulations, such as requiring muzzles when in public, mandatory training courses, and increased insurance coverage.

6. Abandonment of Dogs at the City Pound: It is illegal for residents to abandon their dogs at the city pound. Dropping off unwanted pets without proper procedures violates the city’s abandonment laws. Dog owners who can no longer care for their pets are urged to contact the Animal Control Department to discuss surrender options or find alternative care. Violators face fines and potential legal action.

Consequences for Violations: Recent reports indicate a surge in violations of these ordinances, particularly involving leash laws, failure to clean up after pets, and illegal abandonment of dogs at the city pound. Fines for violating these ordinances range from $50 to $500, depending on the severity of the offense. Repeat violators may face higher penalties and even legal action.

What Can Residents Do? Grant City officials encourage dog owners to familiarize themselves with these ordinances to avoid penalties. Residents who witness violations are urged to report them to the City Hall

For more information on the city's dog ordinances, visit the official Grant City website or contact the City Hall at 660-564-3369

By working together and adhering to the rules, residents can ensure that Grant City remains a safe and enjoyable place for all—both for people and their pets.


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