Police Remind Pet Owners: Abide by City Ordinances
Police Remind Pet Owners:
Abide by City Ordinances
The Milbank City police department recently issued a public reminder to pet owners that while dogs and cats bring joy to many in the community, the owners must abide by the city ordinances pertaining to pets.
“Being a pet owner also comes with a lot of responsibility,” commented Jake Folk, police officer. “It is not uncommon for the Milbank PD to receive animal complaints, but it seems we have been receiving more as of late.”
As a result of the uptick in complaints, the police department issued a reminder of the ordnances.
Ordinance 8.04.020 requires that pets in the city limits be properly licensed. Even if the pets are “just visiting” in town, they need to be licensed. Licenses may be purchased from the city finance officer.
Ordinance 8.04.030 states that it is unlawful for any owner to allow any dog or cat to run at large. There is also a separate city ordinance regarding other animals and poultry running at large.
Ordinance 8.04.051 pertains to animals disturbing the peace. No one is to allow an animal on their property to disturb the peace and quiet of the neighborhood by making loud and/or unusual noises, or disturb the peace and quiet of the neighborhood by persistent or constant barking, howling, whining, snarling or growling.
Ordinance 8.04.056 states that the caretaker or attendant of any dog must remove all resulting dog waste. It is unlawful to allow a dog or cat to defecate on public or private property other than his own, and if it happens, the person must immediately and thoroughly clean the fecal material from such property. Any person accompanied by any animal on public property or private property other than his own must carry with him visible means of cleaning up any fecal matter left by the animal. Service animals and animals used in parades are exempt from the provisions of this section.
The city ordinances referenced address the majority of animal complaints the police have been receiving.
“There are many other ordinances regarding animals, however, it is not possible to list every ordinance here,” Folk said.
The fine amount for each of the above violations of city ordinance is $128.50 per violation, per animal. “We understand that animals can have a mind of their own and accidents can happen. However, please help us out in following the ordinances,” Folk said. “The staff of the Milbank PD appreciate your responsible efforts and your neighbor will, too.
Residents with questions or who wish to report violations can call 605-432-5650 to speak to an officer.
