A proposed ordinance amending animal control regulation in regard to public nuisances created by vicious dogs was presented to the Board of County Commissioners by animal services manager James Terry, on February 13, 2018.
On March 27, 2018 the following changes to the Hernando County Code Chapter 6 regarding Florida’s dangerous dog law were proposed and were included in the agenda at the Board of County Commissioners regular meeting. Commissioners voted to accept these changes.
Raise the maximum fines that could be imposed by eliminating “classes” of violations. Meaning eliminating dangerous vs vicious dogs in subcategory labeling. These fines start at $1,000.00, with a a repeat violation up to $5,000.00 and an irreversible violation up to $15,000.00.
“The proposed ordinance would enact regulations for ‘aggressive’ dogs that have previously attacked other animals or threatened humans, but did not meet any of the statutory definitions of a ‘dangerous dog’.” The Florida Statutes of a “dangerous dog” is defined as one that “has more than once severely injured or killed a domestic animal while off the owner’s property”, and “if an aggressive dog severely injures or kills a domestic animal.”. The ordinance does not make aggressive dogs dangerous dogs.
The proposed ordinance changes the set of regulations for guard dogs. The intent is to clearly define and differentiate dogs that are “legitimately being used to guard property and vicious dogs being kept as pets.”
Owners of dangerous and aggressive dogs will need to carry liability insurance for any damage that their dogs may cause. The owner will need to obtain and maintain insurance for a minimum of $100,000.00 for damage to the person’s or property caused by the dog.
The proposed ordinance would preclude animal services “from issuing kennel licenses without first receiving confirmation from the Zoning Official that the property in question” is permitted for kennel use.
6. Regulate dog owners that have repeat violations and have been found guilty of violating Chapter 6.
7. Publish an online registry of dangerous and aggressive dogs.
County Attorney Garth Coller clarified that the ordinance is not breed specific since it is illegal to discriminate against certain breeds in the state of Florida. The ordinance passed 4-0 with Chairman Champion absent.
The proposed ordinance is available for inspection at the Office of Clerk of Circuit Court. You also have the right to to send any written objections to the County Commissioners if you were unable to attend the March 27, 2018 meeting.