Categories: PETS

Marion County backs off new pet limit proposal, giving relief to local pet owners


OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The Marion County Board of County Commissioners held a public hearing on March 25 and reached a consensus to abandon the newly proposed Section 4.3.28 of the land development code, which would have imposed new limits on the ownership and possession of cats and dogs.

A near-capacity crowd had attended a previous Land Development Regulation Committee meeting earlier in the month to discuss the issue. The next public hearing to consider an ordinance amendment will take place on April 8 at 6 p.m. at the McPherson Government Campus Auditorium, with further discussion expected around high-volume pet ownership.

Several attendees, including breeders and dog show professionals, voiced concerns about how the proposed limitations and the cost of special use permits could impact them.

Marion County Chair Kathy Bryant emphasized the importance of sufficient staffing before imposing any new ordinances.

“I think that’s another part of the conversation I would like to have before our next meeting,” said Bryant. “We have to make sure that we’re getting it right.”

|EVERY LIFE LEAVES A LEGACY: Learn more about family, friends. and neighbors who have left their mark on our community

Dana Olesky, Marion County assistant attorney, explained that the concept of a high-volume owner has existed since 2019, and the updated code wouldn’t increase animal services’ responsibilities.

“The only regulation that this is creating is for a high-volume owner that has more than 30 (cats and or dogs),” said Olesky.

Only five individuals currently hold high-volume permits, though some owners with more than 15 animals remain non-compliant.

“So, for the LDC portion, the only real new regulation you’re replacing is that if you have personal pets that exceed 30, that’s the only new true regulation,” said Olesky.

Under current code, having four or more cats or dogs used for breeding, grooming, or boarding for compensation requires a special use permit. Owners with more than 15 cats and/or dogs must also obtain an animal permit through Marion County Animal Services.

So, what does this really mean for pet owners?

  • No new pet ownership limits are being added – yet.
  • The 15-pet rule still exists from 2019.
  • Owning 30+ pets may require new permits in the future.
  • Breeders and pet-related businesses may face higher costs.
  • Public input can still be shared at the April 8 hearing.

More news that matters to you…

  • MCBIA’s fundraiser, the King of The Wing cooking competition, raises money for The Arc of Marion County while providing the community with a taste of local flavors.

  • Commissioners reconsider stricter rules as breeders and pet lovers raise concerns ahead of April 8 hearing.

  • Victor Martinez’s clutch three-run homer in the seventh propels College of Central Florida past St. John’s River; Pats set for key Citrus Conference showdown.

  • 26-year-old Stephen Woods was found dead on the side of the road over two years ago. Police continue to search for who’s responsible for his death.

  • The College of Central Florida brings a bold, high-energy performance of Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka to the stage, blending nostalgia, adventure, and dazzling steampunk visuals.



Source link

Doggone Well Staff

Recent Posts

“It’s purely experimental, with zero regard for commercialism”: How Brian Wilson recorded Pet Sounds and reinvented music

In 2018, Classic Rock spoke to the Beach Boys' Brian Wilson and Mike Love about…

14 minutes ago

Fire District 3 firefighters rescue elderly couple and pets from burning home

Fire District 3 crews saved an elderly couple and their two dogs from a burning…

2 hours ago

My dog ate my funnel cake? How to adopt a pet at the San Diego County Fair

S1: Welcome in San Diego , it's Jade Hindman. On today's show , we'll tell…

3 hours ago

iHeartDogs Customers Are Helping Domestic Violence Survivors—and Their Pets—Find Safety Together

At iHeartDogs, we believe pets are family. And thanks to the compassion and generosity of…

3 hours ago

Nevada Humane Society, Carson City’s Pet of the Week: Levi

Meet Levi, Nevada Humane Society’s Pet of the Week. Levi is a sweet and timid soul hoping to find…

3 hours ago

Surrey exploring allowing leashed dogs at Crescent Beach during weekdays this summer

Photo: City of Surrey SURREY Mayor Brenda Locke at the Council meeting on Wednesday directed…

6 hours ago