St. Croix County Ordinances

St. Croix County

No mention of exotic animals in County Ordinances.

No mention of exotic animals in County Ordinances.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

City of Glenwood City

§ 168-12: Prohibited and protected animals, reptiles and insects; pit bull dogs.

  1. Protected animals.
    1. Possession and sale of protected animals. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to possess with intent to sell or offer for sale, or buy or attempt to buy, within the City any of the following animals, alive or dead, or any part or product thereof: all wild cats of the family Felidae, polar bear (Thalarctos maritimus), red wolf (Canis niger), vicuna (Vicugna vicugna), or alligator, caiman or crocodile of the order of Crocodilia, gray or timber wolf (Canis lupus), sea otter (Enhydra lutris), Pacific ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea), Atlantic green turtle (Chelonia mydas), or Mexican ridley turtle (Lepidochelys kempii).
    2. Compliance with federal regulations. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to buy, sell or offer for sale a native or foreign species or subspecies of mammal, bird, amphibian or reptile, or the dead body or parts thereof, which appears on the endangered species list designated by the United States Secretary of the Interior and published in the Code of Federal Regulations pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1969 (Public Law 135, 91st Congress).
    3. Regulating the importation of certain birds. No person, firm or corporation shall import or cause to be imported into this City any part of the plumage, skin or dead body of any species of hawk, owl or eagle. This subsection shall not be construed to forbid or restrict the importation or use of the plumage, skin, body or any part thereof legally collected for use by the American Indians for ceremonial purposes or in the preservation of their tribal customs and heritage.
  2. Exceptions. The provisions of Subsection A above shall not be deemed to prevent the lawful importation, possession, purchase or sale of any species by any public agency, institute of higher learning, persons holding federal permits, or by a person holding a scientific collector’s permit issued by the Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources of the state, or by any person or organization licensed to present a circus.
  3. Wild animals; prohibition on keeping. Except for state-licensed game farms, it shall be unlawful for any person to keep, maintain or have in his possession or under his control within the City any poisonous reptile or any other dangerous or carnivorous wild animal or reptile, any vicious or dangerous domesticated animal or any other animal or reptile of wild, vicious or dangerous propensities. Specifically, it shall be unlawful for any person to keep, maintain or have in his possession or under his control within the City any of the following animals, reptiles or insects:
    1. All poisonous animals and reptiles including rear-fang snakes.
    2. Apes: Chimpanzees (Pan); gibbons (Hylobates); gorillas (Gorilla); orangutans (Pongo); and siamangs (Symphalangus).
    3. Baboons (Papio, Mandrillus).
    4. Bears (Urisdae).
    5. Bison (Bison).
    6. Cheetahs (Acinonyzx jubatus).
    7. Crocodilians (Crocodilia), 30 inches in length or more.
    8. Constrictor snakes, six feet in length or more.
    9. Coyotes (Canis latrans).
    10. Game cocks and other fighting birds.
    11. Hyenas (Hyaenidae).
    12. Jaguars (Panthera onca).
    13. Leopards (Panthera pardus).
    14. Lions (Panthera leo).
    15. Lynxes (Lynx).
    16. Ostriches (Struthio).
    17. Pumas (Felis concolor); also known as cougars, mountain lions and panthers.
    18. Sharks (class Chondrichthyes).
    19. Snow leopards (Panthera uncia).
    20. Tigers (Panthera tigris).
    21. Wolves (Canis lupus).
    22. Poisonous insects.
    23. Except in properly zoned districts, horses, mules, ponies, donkeys, cows, pigs, goats, sheep, chickens, poultry or any animal raised for fur-bearing purposes unless otherwise permitted elsewhere in this Code.
  4. Exceptions; pet shops. The prohibitions of Subsection C above shall not apply where creatures are in the care, custody or control of a state-licensed game farm; a veterinarian for treatment; agricultural fairs; shows or projects of the 4-H Clubs; a display for judging purposes; an itinerant or transient carnival, circus or other show; dog or cat shows or trials; public or private educational institutions; or zoological gardens, if:
    1. Their location conforms to the provisions of Chapter 450, Zoning, of this Code.
    2. All animals and animal quarters are kept in a clean and sanitary condition and so maintained as to eliminate objectionable odors.
    3. Animals are maintained in quarters so constructed as to prevent their escape.
  5. Pit bull dogs. Any pit bull dog, provided that a pit bull dog is registered with the City on the day this subsection becomes effective, may be kept within the City subject to the standards and requirements set forth in Subsection E(2) of this section.
    1. Definition. “Pit bull dog” as that term is used in this Subsection E is defined to mean:
    2. Keeping of registered pit bull dogs. The provisions of this Subsection E are not applicable to owners, keepers or harborers of pit bull dogs registered with the City of Glenwood City as of the date of passage of this subsection. Keeping, owning or harboring of such dogs is, however, subject to the following conditions:
      1. Leash and muzzle. No person shall permit a registered pit bull dog to go outside its kennel or pen unless such dog is securely leashed with a leash no longer than four feet in length. No person shall permit a pit bull dog to be kept on a chain, rope or other type of leash outside its kennel or pen unless a person is in physical control of the leash. Such dogs may not be leashed to inanimate objects such as trees, posts, buildings, etc. In addition, all pit bull dogs on a leash outside the animal’s kennel or pen must be muzzled by a muzzling device sufficient to prevent such dog from biting persons or other animals.
      2. Confinement. All registered pit bull dogs shall be securely confined indoors or in a securely enclosed and locked pen or kennel except when leashed and muzzled as provided in Subsection E(2)(a). All pens or kennels shall comply with all zoning and building regulations of the City and shall be kept in a clean and sanitary condition.
      3. Confinement indoors. No pit bull dog may be kept on a porch or patio or in any part of a house or structure that would allow the dog to exit such building on its own volition.
      4. Signs. All owners, keepers or harborers of registered pit bull dogs within the City shall, within 10 days of the effective date of this subsection, display in a prominent place on their premises a sign easily readable by the public using the words “Beware of Dog.” In addition, a similar sign is required to be posted on the kennel or pen of such animal.
      5. Insurance. All owners, keepers or harborers of registered pit bull dogs must, within 30 days of the effective date of this subsection, provide proof to the City Clerk-Treasurer of public liability insurance in a single incident amount of $50,000 for bodily injury to or death of any person or persons or for damage to property owned by any persons which may result from the ownership, keeping or maintenance of such animal. Such insurance policy shall provide that no cancellation of the policy will be made unless 10 days’ written notice is first given to the Clerk-Treasurer.
      6. Registration. All owners, keepers or harborers of pit bull dogs shall, within 30 days after the effective date of this subsection, register said dog with the City by filing with the Clerk-Treasurer two color photographs of the dog clearly showing the color and approximate size of the dog.
      7. Reporting requirements. All owners, keepers or harborers of registered pit bull dogs must, within 10 days of the incident, report the following information in writing to the Clerk-Treasurer:
        1. The removal from the City or death of a registered pit bull.
        2. The birth of offspring of a registered pit bull dog.
        3. The new address of a registered pit bull dog should the dog be moved within the City.
        4. If the registered pit bull dog is sold, the name and address of the new owner.
      8. Animals born of registered dogs. All offspring born of pit bull dogs registered with the City must be removed from the City within six weeks after the birth of said animal.
      9. Failure to comply. It shall be unlawful for the owner, keeper or harborer of a pit bull dog registered with the City to fail to comply with the requirements and conditions set forth in this Subsection E.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

City of New Richmond

Sec. 10-6 – Prohibited And Protected Animals

  1. Protected animals.
    1. Possession and sale. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to possess with intent to sell or offer for sale, or buy or attempt to buy, within the City any of the following animals, alive or dead, or any part or product thereof: all wild cats of the family felidae, polar bear (thalarctos maritimus), red wolf (canis niger), vicuna (vicugna vicugna), or alligator, caiman or crocodile of the order of crocodilia, gray or timber wolf (canis lupus), sea otter (enhydra lutris), Pacific ridley turtle (lepidochelys olivacea), Atlantic green turtle (chelonia mydas), Mexican ridley turtle (lepidochelys kempi).
    2. Federal regulations. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to buy, sell or offer for sale a native or foreign species or subspecies of mammal, bird, amphibian or reptile, or the dead body or parts thereof, which appears on the endangered species list designated by the United States Secretary of the Interior and published in the Code of Federal Regulations pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1969 (Public Law 135, 91st Congress).
    3. Importation of birds. No person, firm or corporation shall import or cause to be imported into the City any part of the plumage, skin or dead body of any species of hawk, owl or eagle. This subsection shall not be construed to forbid or restrict the importation or use of the plumage, skin, body or any part thereof legally collected for use by the American Indians for ceremonial purposes or in the preservation of their tribal customs and heritage.
  2. Exceptions. The provisions of Subsection (a) of this section shall not be deemed to prevent the lawful importation, possession, purchase or sale of any species by any public agency, institute of higher learning, persons holding Federal permits, or by a person holding a scientific collectors permit issued by the Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources of the State, or to any person or organization licensed to present a circus.
  3. Wild animals. Except for State-licensed game farms, it shall be unlawful for any person to keep, maintain or have in his possession or under his control within the City any poisonous reptile or any other dangerous or carnivorous wild animal, insect or reptile, any vicious or dangerous domesticated animal or any other animal or reptile of wild, vicious or dangerous propensities. Specifically, it shall be unlawful for any person to keep, maintain, or have in their possession or under their control within the City, including, but not limited to any of the following animals, reptiles or insects:
    1. Apes: Chimpanzees (PAN), gibbons (Hylobates), gorillas, Orangutang (Pongo), ans siamangs (Symphalangus);
    2. Baboons (Papoi, Mandrillus);
    3. Bears (Ursidae);
    4. Bison;
    5. Cats: Any large cat or members of the family felidae, including, but not limited to the following: Lion, tiger, jaguar, leopard, ocelot, cheetah, lynx, bobcat, snow leopard, puma, panther, or mountain lion;
    6. Constrictor snakes, six feet in length or more;
    7. Crocodilians (Crocodilia), 30 inches in length or more;
    8. Dogs: Any member of the family Canidae, including, but not limited to the following: Wolf, dingo, coyote, jackal, hyenas, and fox. Any crossbreed between dogs and coyotes and dogs and wolves except commonly accepted domesticated dogs;
    9. Gamecocks and other fighting birds;
    10. Ostriches;
    11. Poisonous animals, insects and reptiles including rear-fang snakes;
    12. Raccoons;
    13. Sharks;
    14. Skunks, whether captured in the wild, domestically raised, descented or not, vaccinated against rabies or not;
    15. Except where properly zoned districts, horses, mules, ponies, donkeys, cows, pigs, goats, sheep, chickens, poultry or any animal raised for fur-bearing purposes unless otherwise permitted elsewhere in this Code.
  4. Pet shops. The prohibitions of Subsection (c) of this section shall not apply where the creatures are in the care, custody or control of a State-licensed game farm; a veterinarian for treatment; agricultural fairs; shows or projects of the 4-H Clubs; a display for judging purposes; an itinerant or transient carnival, circus or other show; dog or cat shows or trials; public or private educational institutions; zoological gardens; if:
    1. Their location conforms to the provisions of the zoning ordinance of the City.
    2. All animals and animal quarters are kept in a clean and sanitary condition and so maintained as to eliminate objectionable odors.
    3. Animals are maintained in quarters so constructed as to prevent their escape.
  5. Farm animals. The keeping of cattle, horses, hogs, poultry and other farm animals is prohibited within the City, except in areas zoned agricultural, land owned or leased by an accredited educational institution as part of an agriculture or science curriculum upon approval of a conditional use permit, as provided in NRMC 10 Art II regarding the keeping of chickens, and NRMC 10 Art III regarding the temporary keeping of goats.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

City of River Falls

Chapter 6.08 – WILD ANIMALS

6.08.010 – Purpose and intent.

It is the intent of this chapter to establish regulations which will allow as a conditional use the keeping of wild animals with a wild animal license in certain zoning districts. The city recognizes that wild animals require special handling to assure that the health, safety and welfare of the public is protected and all land use conflicts are minimized.

6.08.020 – Rules and definitions.

  1. Rules. The language set forth in the text of this chapter shall be interpreted in accordance with the following rules of construction:
    1. Words used in the present tense shall include the future; words in the singular shall include the plural and the plural the singular.
    2. “Shall” is mandatory and not discretionary and “may” is permissive.
  2. Definitions. For the purposes of this chapter the terms shall have the following given meanings:
    • “At large” means a wild animal that is outside of its secondary enclosure, or when the wild animal is outside of its primary enclosure but within its secondary enclosure and not in the presence of the owner.
    • “City” means the city of River Falls.
    • “Dwelling” means a building or portion thereof designed or used exclusively for residential occupancy.
    • “Handling” means feeding, manipulating, transporting, restraining, treating, training, working or performing any similar activity with respect to a wild animal.
    • “Impound” means to seize and hold in legal custody.
    • “Keeping of wild animals” means possessing and handling a wild animal on any property and providing such an animal with the necessities of life, such as feeding and sheltering. The keeping of wild animals may include animals being used or intended to be used for research, training, breeding, boarding as a personal pet or for agricultural purposes. The keeping of a wild animal may also include wild animals intended to be used for exhibition providing that such animals are not exhibited within the city, such as in the case of a public showing, circus or zoo.
    • “Livestock” means a typical farm animal kept for agricultural use, pleasure or profit including, but not limited to, horses, mules, sheep, goats, cattle, swine, fowl, rabbits and mink.
    • “Lot” means a tract, plat or portion of a subdivision or other parcel of land intended as a unit for the purpose, whether immediate or future, of transfer of ownership or for the building development.
    • “Owner” means a person who keeps a wild animal or the parents or guardians of such a person under eighteen (18) years of age.
    • “Person” means an individual, partnership, firm, joint stock company, corporation, association, unincorporated association of individuals, trust, estate or other legal entity.
    • “Portable primary enclosure” means the portable structure used to confine a wild animal in a secure manner which prevents the running at large of a wild animal during transportation or temporarily confining such an animal during handling.
    • “Restraint” means a wild animal which is within a primary enclosure or within a secondary enclosure in the presence of the owner or within a vehicle specially equipped for transportation of wild animals.
    • “Secondary enclosure” means a structure such as a fence, wall or building which entirely encloses the area in which the primary enclosures, exercise facilities and training facilities are located and all handling activities occur. Such secondary enclosure serves to contain a wild animal from running at large and to prevent any unauthorized public access.
    • “Structure” means anything constructed or erected the use of which requires a permanent location on the ground or attachment to something having a permanent location on the ground, such as a fence, wall or building.
    • “Wild animal” means a mammal, large or poisonous reptile and bird which, in their uncaptured wild state, have the physical capacity to be dangerous to the safety and welfare of any person or property. Examples of such wild animals are, but are not limited to: ferrets, bears, lions, wolves, coyotes, cougars, bison, tigers, panthers, monkeys, apes, large alligators and crocodiles (greater than four feet in length), large snakes (greater than six feet in length) and poisonous snakes, excluding dogs, cats, other traditional house pets and livestock. Reducing such mammals, reptiles and birds to captivity, whether trained, raised or bred in captivity or otherwise considered domesticated in any manner, shall not remove such wild animals from these requirements and regulations.

6.08.030 – General requirements.

  1. Prohibition. No person shall keep a wild animal unless such a use is specifically permitted by this section and all regulations are complied with.
  2. Regulations.
    1. Enclosures.
      1. A wild animal shall be confined, sheltered and fed in a primary enclosure contained entirely within a secondary enclosure.
      2. All such primary and secondary enclosures shall meet minimum requirements of structural soundness and security as deemed satisfactory by the city.
      3. All primary and secondary enclosures shall be:
        1. Constructed of steel bar, link, wire or other suitable material of sufficient strength to contain the proposed animal;
        2. Adequately braced and securely anchored at ground level;
        3. Constructed such as to prevent a wild animal from digging out from under the enclosure;
        4. Key or combination locked to prevent unauthorized entrance;
        5. Located so that all access to primary enclosures must be from within the secondary enclosure;
        6. Adequately signed to notify the public of the presence of wild animals and the danger which exists.
    2. Transportation. The transportation of a wild animal outside of the secondary enclosure shall be in a vehicle specially equipped for the transportation of wild animals and a portable primary enclosure as approved by the city.
    3. Running at Large.
      1. It shall be prohibited for a wild animal to run at large.
      2. A wild animal shall be under the restraint of its owner.
      3. Tools for capturing wild animals shall be readily accessible, such as traps, firearms, tranquilizing guns and nets.
    4. Sanitation and Health.
      1. The lot on which a wild animal is kept shall be maintained in a clean, sanitary and neat manner.
      2. A wild animal shall be maintained in a healthy state so as to prevent the transmittal of disease to other animals or persons.
      3. All animal waste shall be properly and timely disposed of.
    5. Zoning and Lot Requirements. All zoning ordinance regulations shall be complied with.

6.08.040 – License.

  1. Prohibition. No person shall keep a wild animal unless a wild animal license has been approved by the city for that person and that activity in accordance with this chapter.
  2. Submittal of Application. Complete application for a wild animal license shall include the following:
    1. Five copies of the completed application form;
    2. Five copies of a letter explaining in detail the proposed use and addressing regulations in Section 6.08.030(B)(1) and review criteria in subsection E of this section;
    3. Five copies of an accurate site plan drawn to scale or survey of the lot on which the proposed use would occur and the adjacent lots showing:
      1. Lot dimensions,
      2. Location, size and configuration of the area proposed to be used for the keeping of wild animals, including all existing and proposed buildings, structures and enclosures,
      3. Setbacks from front lot line, side lot lines and rear lot line and distances from neighboring dwellings, pastures, barns and corrals,
      4. Vegetation and terrain features, such as steep slopes, wetlands, woods and any natural and proposed screening or landscaping,
      5. Driveways, public and private roadways, parking and loading areas,
      6. Easements for roads, access, open space, views and utilities,
      7. Location of well and septic,
      8. The city reserves the right to require a certificate of survey as found necessary.
    4. Two copies of all permits required from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, United States Department of Agriculture, United States Fish and Wildlife and any other governmental agency having jurisdiction;
    5. Two copies of the owner’s qualifications, list of professional references and any other background materials as required by the planning office;
    6. Payment of application fee and miscellaneous fees as established by city resolutions and ordinances;
    7. Two copies of building plans for primary and secondary enclosures;
    8. Any additional information found necessary by the planning office.
  3. Application Deadline. A completed application for a wild animal license shall be submitted no later than fifteen (15) days before the next regularly scheduled plan commission meeting.
  4. Review by City Council and Plan Commission.
    1. Upon submittal of a completed application, the planning office shall schedule a public hearing at the next plan commission meeting. The police chief and animal control warden shall receive a copy of the application and forward any recommendations to the planning office who shall then review the application and city staff comments and may make recommendations to the plan commission. The plan commission shall consider the application for a wild animal license and thereafter make recommendations to the city council. The city council shall then approve, approve with modifications or deny the application for a wild animal license by resolution which shall set forth in detail any conditions and restrictions to which the approval is subject or reasons for denial.
    2. If a renewal of a wild animal license is being applied for with no changes from the wild animal license issued by the city for the previous year, the planning office may place the application for the renewal of a wild animal license on the agenda of the next city council meeting and may waive the need for a public hearing or review by the plan commission.
  5. Review Criteria. In acting upon an application for a wild animal license, the city shall consider the following criteria. The applicant shall prove that the use as proposed in the wild animal license application would not result in any detrimental effects.
    1. Surrounding land uses;
    2. Structural soundness and security of all primary and secondary enclosures;
    3. Design, size, location and configuration of all primary and secondary enclosures;
    4. Maintenance of the primary and secondary enclosures and all other structures and areas used in relation to the keeping of any wild animal;
    5. Nuisances, such as noise and odors;
    6. Aesthetics, including the appearance of the lot and structure where a wild animal is kept;
    7. Compliance with the city zoning code and other city ordinances;
    8. Regulations of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, United States Department of Agriculture, United States Fish and Wildlife or any other governmental agency;
    9. Nature and characteristics of each type of animal being proposed, such as its size, strength, disposition and its ability to harm a person or property;
    10. Other criteria found relevant by the city.
  6. Conditions of Approval. In approving an application for a wild animal license, the city may attach conditions and restrictions as it finds necessary including, but not limited to, the following:
    1. Restrictions on the number and type of animals;
    2. Setbacks greater than those required in the ordinance;
    3. Minimum and maximum distance between primary and secondary enclosures;
    4. Minimum height of enclosures;
    5. Size of the enclosures.
  7. Expiration. The wild animal license shall expire twelve (12) months from the date of issuance.
  8. Renewal of License. Applications for renewal of a wild animal license with any changes shall be made a minimum of fifteen (15) days before the next regularly scheduled plan commission meeting. Application for renewal with no changes shall be made eleven (11) days before the next regularly scheduled city council meeting, providing that the public hearing and review before the plan commission has been waived. The city may require an inspection upon renewal of a wild animal license and shall reserve the right to have such inspection performed by an approved qualified consultant.

6.08.050 – Variances.

  1. Variance and Review Criteria. Where the city finds that extraordinary hardships or practical difficulties may result from strict compliance with the provisions of this chapter and the purposes of this chapter may be served to the same or greater extent by an alternative proposal, the city may approve variances to this chapter so that substantial justice may be done and the public interest secured; provided, that such variance shall not have the effect of nullifying the intent and purpose of this chapter and the city shall not approve variances unless, based upon the evidence presented to it, it finds that:
    1. The granting of the variance would not be detrimental to the public safety, health or welfare or injurious to property.
    2. The conditions which a variance would be based upon are unique to that application for which the variance is sought and are not applicable generally to other applications.
    3. The strict enforcement of this chapter would result in unreasonable and unnecessary requirements or restrictions because a particular hardship would result as distinguished from an inconvenience.
  2. Application and Review. The application procedure for a variance from this chapter shall be the same as for a wild animal license. (See Section 6.08.040(B) through (D)) Variances may be reviewed concurrently with an application for a wild animal license.
  3. Conditions of Approval. In approving an application for a variance the city may attach conditions and restrictions as it finds necessary.

6.08.060 – Fees.

The applicant for a wild animal license or variance shall pay an application fee as per the city ordinances and resolutions. The applicant shall also pay for any costs or expenses incurred by the city during the processing and reviewing of the application which exceed the application fee. Such expenses shall include, but are not limited to, consultants and other professionals and the cost of printing, mailing and supplies. Such fees shall become due and payable immediately upon notification by the city. The city shall provide upon the request of the applicant a breakdown of the various expenses incurred by the city. The city may withhold any final action on an application for a wild animal license or variance and/or rescind prior actions until all fees are fully paid. The city may require additional deposits above and beyond the application fee if found necessary.

6.08.070 – Inspection and revocation of licenses or variances.

The city may at any time inspect the lot and structures where a wild animal is kept to determine if the license or variance and the conditions and restrictions of that license or variance are being strictly adhered to. The city may require an inspection upon renewal of a wild animal license and shall reserve the right to have such inspection performed by an approved and qualified consultant.

6.08.080 – Nonconforming uses.

A person keeping wild animals within the city upon the effective date of the adoption of this chapter who does not conform to the provisions of this chapter shall be given thirty (30) days to comply or submit application for the necessary variances.

6.08.090 – Enforcement.

  1. Impoundment. In addition to the penalties imposed in Section 6.08.100, a person in violation of this chapter may be subject to having the wild animals in question impounded or destroyed. Owners in violation of this section will have ten (10) days to correct the violation and redeem a wild animal. The owner is responsible for all costs incurred by the city to capture, keep or destroy a wild animal. If a wild animal is not redeemed, the city will dispose of such wild animal in any manner it deems necessary, such as, but not limited to, selling, destroying or donating to an appropriate organization or agency.
  2. Rabies. A wild animal capable of transmitting rabies which has been known to have bitten a person shall be quarantined and observed for rabies under the direction of a licensed veterinarian for a period of time and in facilities determined to be adequate by that veterinarian and the city. If a wild animal is proven to be rabid, the wild animal shall be destroyed. If a wild animal is proven to not be rabid by a licensed veterinarian, it will be returned to the owner.
  3. Posing an Immediate Threat. The animal warden shall have the right to destroy a wild animal posing an immediate threat of serious harm to any person, livestock or house pet.

6.08.100 – Violation—Penalty.

A person who fails to comply with or violates provisions of this chapter or the restrictions of a conditional use permit, wild animal license or variance shall be subject to a forfeiture of not more than five hundred dollars ($500) for each day when the violation persists and/or imprisonment for a period not exceeding ninety (90) days or maximum penalty allowed by law, such forfeiture and imprisonment being pursuant to the provisions of Wisconsin Statutes. Appropriate actions and proceedings may be taken by law or in equity to prevent a violation of this chapter or the conditions or restrictions of a conditional use permit, wild animal license or variance to prevent unlawful construction, recover damages, restrain, correct or abate a violation and prevent illegal use of a lot. These remedies shall be in addition to the penalties described above.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Village of Baldwin

§ 205-13: Prohibited and protected animals, fowl, reptiles and insects; farm animals.

  1. Protected animals.
    1. Possession and sale of protected animals. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to possess with intent to sell or offer for sale, or buy or attempt to buy, within the Village any of the following animals, alive or dead, or any part or product thereof: all wild cats of the family felidae, polar bear (Thalarctos maritimus), red wolf (Canis niger), vicuna (Vicugna vicugna), gray or timber wolf (Canis lupus), sea otter (Enhydra lutris), Pacific ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea), Atlantic green turtle (Chelonia mydas), Mexican ridley turtle (Lepidochelys kempi).
    2. Compliance with federal regulations. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to buy, sell or offer for sale a native or foreign species or subspecies of mammal, bird, amphibian or reptile, or the dead body or parts thereof, which appears on the endangered species list designated by the United States Secretary of the Interior and published in the Code of Federal Regulations pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1969 (Public Law 135, 91st Congress).
    3. Regulating the importation of certain birds. No person, firm or corporation shall import or cause to be imported into this Village any part of the plumage, skin or dead body of any species of hawk, owl or eagle. This paragraph shall not be construed to forbid or restrict the importation or use of the plumage, skin, body or any part thereof legally collected for use by the American Indians for ceremonial purposes or in the preservation of their tribal customs and heritage.
  2. Exceptions. The provisions of Subsection A above shall not be deemed to prevent the lawful importation, possession, purchase or sale of any species by any public agency, institute of higher learning, persons holding federal permits, or by a person holding a Scientific Collector’s Permit issued by the Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources of the state, or to any person or organization licensed to present a circus.
  3. Wild animals; prohibition on keeping. It shall be unlawful for any person to keep, maintain or have in his/her possession or under his/her control within the Village any poisonous reptile or any other dangerous or carnivorous wild animal, insect or reptile, any vicious or dangerous domesticated animal or any other animal or reptile of wild, vicious or dangerous propensities. Specifically, it shall be unlawful for any person to keep, maintain or have in his possession or under his/her control within the Village any of the following animals, reptiles or insects:
    1. All poisonous animals and reptiles, including rear-fang snakes.
    2. Apes: chimpanzees (Pan); gibbons (Hylobates); gorillas (Gorilla); orangutans (Pongo); and siamangs (Symphalangus).
    3. Baboons (Papoi, Mandrillus).
    4. Bears (Ursidae).
    5. Bison (Bison).
    6. Cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus).
    7. Crocodilians (Crocodilia), 30 inches in length or more.
    8. Constrictor snakes.
    9. Coyotes (Canis latrans).
    10. Deer (Cervidae); includes all members of the deer family; for example, whitetailed deer, elk, antelope and moose.
    11. Elephants (Elephas and Loxodonta).
    12. Game cocks and other fighting birds.
    13. Hippopotami (Hippopotamidae).
    14. Hyenas (Hyaenidae).
    15. Jaguars (Panthera onca).
    16. Leopards (Panthera pardus).
    17. Lions (Panthera leo).
    18. Lynxes (Lynx).
    19. Monkeys, old world (Cercopithecidae):
    20. Ostriches (Struthio).
    21. Pumas (Felis concolor); also known as cougars, mountain lions and panthers.
    22. Rhinoceroses (Rhinocero tidae).
    23. Sharks (class Chondrichthyes).
    24. Snow leopards (Panthera uncia).
    25. Tigers (Panthera tigris).
    26. Wolves (Canis lupus).
    27. Poisonous insects.
  4. Exceptions; pet shops. The prohibitions of Subsection C above shall not apply where the creatures are in the care, custody or control of: a veterinarian for treatment; agricultural fairs; shows or projects of the 4-H Clubs; a display for judging purposes; an itinerant or transient carnival, circus or other show; dog or cat shows or trials; public or private educational institutions; licensed pet shops; zoological gardens; if:
    1. Their location conforms to the provisions of the zoning ordinance of the Village.
    2. All animals and animal quarters are kept in a clean and sanitary condition and so maintained as to eliminate objectionable odors.
    3. Animals are maintained in quarters so constructed as to prevent their escape.
    4. No person lives or resides within 100 feet of the quarters in which the animals are kept.
  5. Farm animals. Except on properties zoned in an agricultural classification or as provided in § 205-22, no person shall own, keep, harbor or board any cattle, horses, ponies, swine, goats, sheep, fowl (more than two) or rabbits (more than four).

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Village of Deer Park

Sec. 7-1-11 – Keeping Of Exotic Animals; Protected Animals, Fowl, Reptiles and Insects.

  1. Intent.
    1. Purpose. It is the purpose and intent of the Village of Deer Park in adopting this Section to protect the public safety, health and general welfare from the safety and health risks that the unregulated keeping or harboring of exotic animals can pose to the community and to protect the health and welfare of permitted exotic animals held in private possession. By their very nature, exotic animals are wild and potentially dangerous, and, typically, do not adjust well to a captive environment. This Section shall be liberally construed in favor of the Village’s right and authority to protect the public health, safety and welfare.
    2. Prohibition. It shall be unlawful for any person to own, possess, maintain, harbor, bring into the Village of Deer Park, have in one’s possession, act as a custodian for, or have custody or control on an exotic animal, except in compliance with this Section.
  2. Definitions. The following definitions and terms shall be applicable in this Section. Words used in the present tense include the future; the singular number includes the plural number; and the plural number includes the singular number. The word “shall” is mandatory and not permissive; the word “may” is nonmandatory and discretionary:
    1. Animal. For purposes of this Section, shall mean exotic animals.
    2. Animal Control Officer. Law enforcement officers serving the Village, the Zoning Administrator, animal control officers, humane society employees, or any other person designated by the Village of Deer Park to enforce or assist in the enforcement of this Section.
    3. Animal Shelter. Any premises designated or used by the Village for the purpose of impounding and caring for animals found in violation of this Section, or of any other Village ordinance regulating the keeping of and care of animals. Included within this definition are animal shelters whose services are secured by the Village through contract or intergovernmental agreement.
    4. At Large. An animal is at large when:
      1. It is off the property of the owner and not properly confined or restrained in a manner such that the risk of uncontrolled or accidental contact by the animal with humans or domesticated animals has been minimized; or
      2. It is on the property of the owner, but is improperly restrained or confined so as to pose a risk of leaving the property and having uncontrolled or accidental contact by with humans or domesticated animals off of the owner’s property; or
      3. It is so improperly, inadequately or negligently restrained or confined on the owner’s property so to pose a risk of potentially dangerous contact with humans or domesticated animals which come on to the owner’s property.
    5. Enclosure or Enclosure Area. The indoor and/or outdoor area in which an animal is kept confined or restrained, including any structure(s) in which it is kept, confined or restrained.
    6. Exotic Animal (including USDA Dangerous Animals). Any animal, fowl, insect, or reptile that is not normally domesticated in Wisconsin or is inherently wild by nature. Exotic animals include, but are not limited to, any or all of the following orders, families and/or species, whether bred in the wild or in captivity, and also hybrids with domestic species. The animals, fowl, insects, and reptiles listed in parentheses are intended to act as examples and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list nor to limit the generality of each group of animals, fowl, reptiles or insects:
    7. Humane Society. The Humane Society of St. Croix County or similar organization.
    8. Own/Owner/Owning. Any person, corporation, partnership, limited liability corporation, organization, association, joint venture, trust, or other legal entity who possesses, harbors, keeps, controls, boards, or has in his/her custody an exotic animal in the Village of Deer Park, and any officer, member, shareholder, director, employee, agent or representative thereof. Any animal is being harbored if it is being fed and/or sheltered by such party.
    9. Section. The same meaning as “this Ordinance.”
    10. Solid Surface. A surface constructed of cement, concrete, metal, asphalt, fiberglass or similar such hard, impervious surface.
    11. Village. The Village of Deer Park, St. Croix County, Wisconsin.
    12. Village Board. The Village Board of the Village of Deer Park, and authorized committees and subunits thereof including Village officials employees or agents.
  3. Compliance with Federal Regulations.
    1. Federal Code Requirements. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to buy, sell or offer for sale a native or foreign species or subspecies of mammal, bird, amphibian or reptile, or the dead body or parts thereof, which appears on the endangered species list designated by the United States Secretary of the Department of Interior and published in the Code of Federal Regulations pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1969 (Public Law 135, 91st Congress).
    2. Regulation of the Importation of Birds. No person, firm or corporation shall import or cause to be imported into the Village of Deer Park any part of the plumage, skin or dead body of any species of hawk, owl or eagle. This Subsection shall not be construed to forbid or restrict the importation or use of the plumage, skin, body or any part thereof legally collected for use by American Indian Nations for ceremonial purposes or in the preservation of their tribal customs and heritage.
  4. Exotic Animal Permit Requirement – Application for Permit.
    1. Sale, Importation, Transfer, Purchase and/or Gifting of an Exotic Animal. It shall be unlawful for any person to:
      1. Import, transfer, sell, own, or purchase an exotic animal in the Village of Deer Park without first obtaining a permit from the Village Board as prescribed by this Section, unless exempt from such permit requirement.
      2. Sell, transfer, deliver, or give an exotic animal to any other person in the Village of Deer Park without first obtaining a permit from the Village Board as prescribed by this Section, unless exempt from such permit requirement.
    2. Keeping, Harboring, Maintaining or Controlling an Exotic Animal; Zoning.
      1. It shall be unlawful for any person in the Village of Deer Park to own, keep, maintain, harbor, board, or control an exotic animal without first obtaining a permit from the Village Board as prescribed by this Section, unless exempt from such permit requirement.
      2. An exotic animal may only be kept, harbored or maintained on a parcel in a Conservancy or Agricultural Zoning classification.
    3. Exceptions to Exotic Animal Permit Requirement. The exotic animal permit requirements of this Section shall not apply to:
      1. Institutions accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA).
      2. State licensed humane societies.
      3. Animal control or law enforcement officers acting in an official capacity.
      4. State licensed veterinary hospitals or clinics.
      5. Persons holding a Scientific Collectors Permit issued by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
      6. Any person, company or organization presenting a transient or itinerant circus or carnival operating within the Village of Deer Park ten (10) or less days per year and holding all other required Village, county and state permits and/or licenses.
      7. Wildlife rehabilitators licensed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources who temporarily keep, nurture, rehabilitate, and care for exotic animals which are injured or in need of rehabilitation, with the primary purpose of returning such animals to the wild. No animal may be kept under this exception for a period of more than ninety (90) days. No animal may be kept under this exception that poses a danger to the community or domestic animals.
      8. State licensed or accredited research or medical institution.
      9. Any person temporarily transporting an exotic animal through the Village if the transit time is not more than twenty-four (24) hours and the animal is at all times maintained within a confinement sufficient to prevent the exotic animal from escaping.
    4. Application; Required Application Information. An applicant for an exotic animal permit shall file an application with the Village Clerk-Treasurer containing the following information:
      1. Basic Application Information. The applicant shall file the following information at the time of application filing:
        1. The name, address, and telephone number of the applicant.
        2. A description of each exotic animal the applicant possesses, or seeks to possess, including the scientific name, common name, sex, age, color, weight and any distinguishing marks or coloration that would aid in the identification of the animal.
        3. A photograph of each exotic animal.
        4. A description of the exact location and confinement facilities where the exotic animal will be kept.
        5. The names, addresses, and telephone number of the person from whom the applicant obtained the exotic animal, if known.
        6. The name and address of the veterinarian providing veterinary care to the exotic animal and a certificate of good health for the exotic animal from that veterinarian.
        7. A plan for the prompt and safe recapture of the exotic animal if the exotic animal escapes. Each applicant/permittee shall have a plan for the quick and safe recapture of the exotic animal if the animal escapes, and, if recapture is impossible, then a plan for the destruction of the exotic animal.
        8. In the case of exotic animals included on the United States Department of Agriculture’s dangerous animal list, proof of having obtained a minimum of one year’s, paid in full liability insurance in an amount not less than Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000) for each occurrence for liability damages for destruction of or damage to property and death or bodily injury to a person caused by the exotic animal. [Failure to at all times keep such liability insurance in full force and effect during the life of the permit shall immediately terminate the validity of such permit; it is the responsibility of the permittee to immediately notify the Village Clerk-Treasurer, in writing, of any changes in his/her insurance status, validity or carrier]. The Village of Deer Park shall be listed as a named co-insured solely for the purpose of notice of cancellation of such insurance policy.
        9. Copies of all United States Department of Agriculture, United States Department of Interior, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and any other state or federal permits/ licenses issued to the applicant approving of or governing the applicant’s possession of the species for which a Village exotic animal permit is being sought.
        10. Exotic animal permit application fee in the amount per animal as prescribed in Sec. 1-3-1.
        11. Any other information required by Village of Deer Park authorities to properly consider the application.
      2. Certified Information. The applicant shall certify in writing that: 1. The applicant is eighteen (18) years of age or older.
        1. The applicant is eighteen (18) years of age or older.
        2. The applicant has not been convicted of or found responsible for violating a local or state law prohibiting cruelty, neglect, or mistreatment of animals or has not within the last ten (10) years been convicted for possession, sale or use of illegal narcotics or controlled substances.
        3. The facility and the conditions in which the exotic animal will be kept are in compliance with this Section and all other applicable state and local regulations.
        4. The applicant has regularly provided veterinary care to the exotic animal when needed and will provide such care in the future.
        5. Proof that a licensed veterinarian has spayed or neutered the exotic animal.
  5. Review of Exotic Animal Permit Application; Issuance; Conditions of Permit Issuance; Renewals.
    1. Consideration of Application. Upon receipt of the application, application fee and all of the information required by Subsection (d)(4) above, the Village Clerk-Treasurer shall schedule consideration of the application before the Village Board, duly noticing the consideration of the application on the notice/agenda for such meeting in compliance with the Wisconsin Open Meeting Law. All neighboring property owners and residents located within three hundred (300) feet of the applicant’s property shall receive written notice of the meeting at which the application is to be considered by the Village Board a minimum of seven (7) days prior to the meeting date.
    2. Village Board Action. Upon consideration of the application, the Village Board may issue an exotic animal permit if the Village Board is satisfied that:
      1. All of the application and insurance requirements required by Subsections (d)(4) and (e)(4) have been fully satisfied;
      2. The applicant has provided credentials, satisfactory to the Village Board, establishing that the applicant/owner is properly trained to handle, care for, restrain, and recapture the type of animal for which the permit application is being made;
      3. The applicant has provided either application information or oral testimony at the application review meeting demonstrating ownership of, and training and proficiency with, tranquilizing and restraint equipment that is species-appropriate, to the satisfaction of the Village Board, and shall demonstrate adequate training and certification in first aid and CPR;
      4. The exotic animal and the manner in which it will be kept will be fully in compliance with the requirements of this Section and that the animal will be kept in such manner so as not pose a threat to public safety and health;
      5. The applicant has demonstrated that the animal will be kept in a humane manner consistent with this Section and all other applicable federal and state standards; and,
      6. The site is properly zoned for such use.
    3. Validity.
      1. A copy of the exotic animal permit shall be displayed, in plain view, on or reasonably near the animal’s confinement area.
      2. An exotic animal permit is not transferable without re-application under this Section.
      3. Permits for each exotic animal shall be valid for one (1) year. The permit year shall commence on January 1 or as soon thereafter as officially issued and expire on December 31 of that year.
      4. In addition to the application fee under Subsection (d)(4), the fee for an annual exotic animal permit, or renewal thereof, shall be as prescribed in Section 1-3-1 for each exotic animal.
    4. Permit Renewal; Issuance Criteria.
      1. Exotic animal permit renewal applications shall be submitted to the Village Clerk-Treasurer on or before November 15 of the permit year.
      2. Along with each permit renewal application, the applicant shall submit the required renewal fee, a current certificate of good health for the animal(s), update in full all information required for the original permit, and provide proof of the required continued paid-up liability insurance [such proof of insurance shall be no more than thirty (30) days old.]
      3. The Village Board shall consider renewals in the same manner as with the issuance of original permits.
      4. The Village Board shall not issue or renew a permit if it determines that:
        1. The applicant has been convicted of cruelty to animals within the previous ten (10) years;
        2. The applicant has failed to provide, withheld or falsified any required permit application or renewal information; or
        3. The applicant is, or has been, unable to comply with the requirements necessary to obtain a permit or has failed to comply with the provisions of this Section at any time during the permit year.
    5. Permit Revocation. The Village Board may revoke a permit for violation of this Section after giving written notice of the reasons for revocation to the permit holder. The Village of Deer Park shall give the permittee notice, by certified mail with receipt requested, of intent to consider revocation of the exotic animal permit. The Village shall give the permittee an opportunity to respond to the notice and address the issues identified at an open, noticed Village Board meeting, after which the Village Board shall make its determination, with the reasons therefor included in the record of the Board’s meeting.
    6. Permit Transfer. If an owner can no longer properly care for his/her exotic animal, that person may only transfer his/her exotic animal to another person who has been issued a valid exotic animal permit by the Village Board. An owner/permittee shall notify the Village Clerk-Treasurer of any changes central to the validity of the permit, including the death of the exotic animal.
  6. Confinement Standards for Exotic Animals.
    1. Prohibited Confinement. An exotic animal shall not be tethered, leashed, chained outdoors, or allowed to run at large.
    2. Confinement Standards.
      1. All exotic animals governed by this Section shall be confined in a building or secure enclosure that has a floor, a secure roof and sides, constructed and maintained so as to securely confine the animal and provide sufficient space to allow each animal adequate freedom of movement. Inadequate space may be indicated by evidence of animal debilitation, stress, abnormal behavior patterns, or the professional opinion of a veterinarian, a qualified animal trainer, or experts from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), United States Department of Interior, or Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
      2. For each exotic animal, the permittee shall comply with the AZA’s “Minimum Guidelines” for animal care and maintenance or the USDA’s standards for the humane handling, care and treatment of exotic animals [9 CFR Subchapter A (Animal Welfare, Part 3)], whichever is more restrictive. These standards shall provide the basis against which to assess the sufficiency of space or facility for animals for which a permit is sought or held.
      3. The Village of Clerk-Treasurer recognizes that exotic animals typically require extra care in the provision of confinement and care due to the climate and conditions of their original place of origin.
    3. Minimum Outdoor Area Standards. The outdoor area of an exotic animal’s enclosure shall, at a minimum:
      1. Have two (2) sets of wire enclosures with a minimum of four (4) inches separation between them;
      2. Have the sides of the wire enclosure extend downward and be buried a minimum of twelve (12) inches below ground;
      3. Incorporate a roof design with independent fencing separate from and located between the roof and floor of the enclosure so as to prevent escape in the event high winds damage the roof over the enclosure;
      4. Have a floor with a minimum six (6) inch perimeter of breaker rock-grade aggregate around the borders of the enclosed area and a minimum five (5) inch uniform depth of Class Five gravel for the floor, or a floor with a minimum four (4) inch uniform depth of concrete or asphalt over the remainder of the enclosure floor;
      5. Be provided with shelter that allows the exotic animal, if kept outdoors, to remain dry and warm during snow/sleet/rain;
      6. In the alternative, present to and secure approval from the Village Board for an alternative outdoor confinement system that substantially complies with the safeguards of this Section.
      7. In addition to the structural requirements of the exotic animal’s outdoor enclosure, the permittee shall:
        1. Ensure that the outdoor area is maintained in a safe and healthful manner;
        2. Keep the outdoor area free of standing water, accumulated waste, and debris;
        3. Ensure that sufficient shade, by natural or artificial means, is available when the animal is outdoors; and
        4. Maintain the structural soundness of the outdoor structure in good repair to protect the exotic animals from injury and to prevent escape.
    4. Minimum Indoor Area Standards. The indoor area of an exotic animal’s enclosure shall:
      1. Be an insulated, moisture-proof and windproof structure of adequate area to accommodate the need of the animal for adequate freedom of movement;
      2. Contain a solid floor of no less than four (4) inches thick to prevent the animal from escaping;
      3. Incorporate a roof design with independent fencing separate from and located between the roof and floor of the enclosure so as to prevent escape in the event high winds blow off the roof over the enclosure;
      4. Locate the entrance to the building in which the animal is housed facing away from prevailing winds; and
      5. Have a self-closing door over the human and animal entryway during the winter months to protect the animal from cold temperatures.
      6. In addition to the structural requirements of the animal’s indoor enclosure area, the owner of an animal shall:
        1. Ensure that the indoor enclosure area remains at an ambient temperature that will maintain the good health of the exotic animal;
        2. Provide proper ventilation of the indoor structure by natural or mechanical means to provide fresh air for the animal and to prevent moisture condensation;
        3. Ensure that the animal has natural or artificial lighting and adequate heat and ventilation to properly provide for the health of the animal at all times;
        4. Ensure that the animal has proper bedding in sufficient quantity for insulation against the cold and dampness and that is changed regularly; and Maintain the indoor enclosure area in good repair to protect the animal from injury and to prevent escape.
      7. Notification Signs. All owners/permittees of an exotic animal(s) shall have continuously posted and displayed at each normal entrance onto the premises where an exotic animal is kept a conspicuous sign, clearly visible, and easily readable by the public, warning that there is an exotic animal on the premises. At least one such sign shall be located within twenty (20) feet of the animal’s confinement area using the words “BEWARE OF”, with the last word to indicate the type of exotic animal that is being confined. In addition, the permittee shall conspicuously display a sign with a warning symbol that adequately informs children of the presence of an exotic animal.
      8. Escape and Liability for Escape.
        1. Notification of Escape.
          1. An owner/permittee shall immediately notify the Village Clerk-Treasurer, local Humane Society, the Village’s animal control officer, and law enforcement authorities serving the Village, including but not limited to, the County Sheriff’s Department, of the escape of any exotic animal for which a permit is required
          2. No person may intentionally release an exotic animal. If an exotic animal is released by any party, authorized or unauthorized, the owner/permittee is liable for all expenses associated with efforts to recapture the animal, and may, in addition, be subject to a forfeiture.
        2. Liability
          1. The owner/permittee shall be liable for all costs incurred by any public authority or their agents and resulting from the escape of any animal for which a permit is required, including boarding, placement, veterinarian and legal fees.
          2. Neither the Village of Deer Park or any agent of the Village shall be liable for the loss, death, injury or destruction of any animal for which a permit is required, nor shall the Village be liable for any injury or damage caused by any animal for which a permit is required and issued under this Section.
      9. Inspection. The owner/permittee of an exotic animal, at all reasonable times, shall allow designated inspectors of the Village, humane officers and law enforcement authorities to enter the premises where the animal is kept to ensure compliance with this Section as a condition of permit issuance. Such Village representatives may conduct a minimum of three (3) periodic, unannounced inspections of the outdoor and indoor enclosure areas per twelve (12) month period for USDA-designated dangerous exotic animals, and a minimum of one (1) such unannounced inspection per twelve (12) month period for non-dangerous exotic animals, to ensure that said areas are being maintained in the manner required by this Section.
      10. Restraint and Impoundment.
        1. Animals At Large May Be Impounded.
          1. All exotic animals shall be kept confined or under proper restraint by their owners as provided herein and shall not be permitted to run at large. Unrestrained exotic animals and animals running at large may be taken into custody in accordance with Chapter 173, Wis. Stats., and impounded at any facility deemed appropriate for the protection of the public and with facilities and equipment that permit the facility to adequately care for the animal. Such animals shall be considered to be abandoned.
          2. Animal control officers, designees of the Village of Deer Park, humane officers or law enforcement officers, upon receipt of information indicating probable cause of a violation of this Section, may in his/her discretion, and after investigation, seize and impound an animal in emergency situations or where previous written notice has failed to produce compliance and when otherwise authorized by law.
        2. Failure to Reclaim; Costs.
          1. If an owner fails to reclaim an exotic animal within seven (7) days of taking the animal into custody, the Village shall consider the animal to be unclaimed, as authorized by Section 173.23(1m), Wis. Stats., and shall take such steps as authorized by law. The Village may contact the American Zoo and Aquarium Association for further assistance.
          2. The animal’s owner is liable for the costs of capture, care and placement for the exotic animal from the time of confiscation until the time of return to the owner, until the animal is disposed of, or until the time the animal has been relocated to an approved facility, such as a proper wildlife sanctuary.
          3. If an exotic animal is confiscated due to the animal being kept in contravention of this Section, the animal’s owner is required to post a security bond or cash deposit with the Village and/or animal control authority in an amount sufficient to guarantee payment of all reasonable costs expected to be incurred in caring and providing for the animal, including, but not limited to, the estimated cost of feeding, medical care, and housing for at least thirty (30) days. The posting of the bond or cash deposit shall not prevent the Village of Deer Park or animal control authority from disposing of the animal as permitted by law at the end of the thirty (30) days.
          4. An exotic animal may be returned to its owner only if, to the satisfaction of the Village Board, the possessor has a valid Village exotic animal permit, has corrected the conditions resulting in the confiscation, and has paid in full the cost of placement and care of the animal while under the care and control of the Village or humane society.
          5. If the owner of a confiscated exotic animal cannot be located or if a confiscated animal remains unclaimed, the Village or humane society may, at its discretion, contact an approved facility, such as an institution accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA), allow the animal to be adopted by a party who can satisfy the permit requirements of this Section, or may euthanize the animal as permitted by law.
          6. If an escaped exotic animal cannot be recaptured safely and is posing a threat to public health and safety, authorities may euthanize the animal as permitted by law.
      11. Animal Care.
        1. Food and Water. No owner shall fail to provide an exotic animal in his/her care with sufficient food, potable water, or shelter when needed.
        2. Humane Treatment. No person shall ill-treat, beat, torment or otherwise abuse an exotic animal.
      12. Incidents Causing Injury.
        1. Notification. All incidents in the Village of Deer Park in which an exotic animal injures or is suspected of injuring any person or domesticated animal shall be reported by the permittee to the Village Clerk-Treasurer and law enforcement authorities within two (2) hours of the incident.
        2. Liability. The owner of an exotic animal shall be responsible for all expenses incurred as a result of an injury inflicted or suffered by an exotic animal, whether expenses are incurred by the family of the victim, the victim, the Village or on behalf of the animal involved.
      13. Sanitation.
        1. Fecal Matter; Odor. Any person who owns, harbors, keeps, or controls an exotic animal shall be responsible for keeping his/her property properly clean of fecal matter and to keep obnoxious odors under control.
        2. Waste Disposal. Disposal of all animal waste shall be in a manner that is consistent with normal agricultural practices and adequately protects human and animal health.
      14. Limitation on Exotic Animal Numbers. No person shall own, harbor or keep in his/her possession on any one parcel of propety more than two (2) exotic animals over five (5) months of age at any one time, nor shall any person retain a litter/offspring, or portion thereof, of exotic animals longer than five (5) months following birth.
      15. Compliance; Enforcement
        1. Transition Period.
          1. As a measure deemed necessary by the Village Board to protect the public safety, health and welfare, this Section shall apply to owners of exotic animals in the Village of Deer Park and who possess, harbor, board or keep an exotic animal(s) on the effective date of this Section.
          2. All such existing exotic animal owners shall file with the Village Clerk-Treasurer the location, species, gender and age of each such exotic animal within thirty (30) days of the effective date of this Section.
          3. All such existing exotic animal owners shall comply with this Section, including applying for an exotic animal permit, within ninety (90) days of the effective date of this Section.
          4. An exotic animal permit may be issued by the Village Board under the standards and procedures of this Section. Failure to apply for, and be granted, an exotic animal permit shall result in the animal being removed from its owner by the Village of Deer Park, or its designees, within six (6) months of the effective date
        2. Enforcement. The Village Board, with the assistance of the humane society, animal control officers, and other law enforcement authorities, and such veterinarian assistance as may be needed shall be primarily responsible for the enforcement of this of this Section. The Village Board may appoint additional persons as may be necessary to assist with the enforcement of this Section.
      16. Penalties. The following penalties shall apply to all violatons of this Section:
        1. Forfeiture. Any person who fails to comply with the provisions of this Section shall, upon adjudication of the violation, be subject to a forfeiture of not less than One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) or more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) per violation, plus the costs of prosecution and any assessments and expenses related to enforcement authorized elsewhere in this Section. Each day of violation constitute a separate offense. This penalty is in addition to any other remedies for non-compliance set forth elsewhere in this Section.
        2. Interference With Enforcement. It is unlawful for a permittee/owner or any other person harboring, keeping, boarding or maintaining an exotic animal to fail to comply with the provisions of this Section, and/or for any person on the permittee’s premises to interfere with the enforcement or administration of this Section.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Village of Hammond

ARTICLE III. – WILD ANIMALS

Sec. 14-66. – Purpose and intent.

It is the intent of this article to establish regulations which will allow as a conditional use the keeping of wild animals with a wild animal license in certain zoning districts. The village recognizes that wild animals require special handling to assure that the health, safety and welfare of the public is protected and all land use conflicts are minimized.

Sec. 14-67. – Definitions.

The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this article, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:

  • At large means a wild animal outside of its secondary enclosure, or a wild animal outside of its primary enclosure but within its secondary enclosure and not in the presence of the owner.
  • Dwelling means a building or portion thereof designed or used exclusively for residential occupancy.
  • Handling means feeding, manipulating, transporting, restraining, treating, training, working or performing any similar activity with respect to a wild animal.
  • Impound means to seize and hold in legal custody.
  • Keeping of wild animals means possessing and handling a wild animal on any property and providing such an animal with the necessities of life, such as feeding and sheltering. The keeping of wild animals may include animals being used or intended to be used for research, training, breeding, boarding as a personal pet or for agricultural purposes. The keeping of a wild animal may also include wild animals intended to be used for exhibition providing that such animals are not exhibited within the village, such as in the case of a public showing, circus or zoo.
  • Livestock means a typical farm animal kept for agricultural use, pleasure or profit, including but not limited to horses, mules, sheep, goats, cattle, swine, fowl, rabbits and mink.
  • Lot means a tract, plat or portion of a subdivision or other parcel of land intended as a unit for the purpose, whether immediate or future, of transfer of ownership or for the building development.
  • Owner means a person who keeps a wild animal or the parents or guardians of such a person under 18 years of age.
  • Person means an individual, partnership, firm, joint stock company, corporation, association, unincorporated association of individuals, trust, estate or other legal entity.
  • Portable primary enclosure means the portable structure used to confine a wild animal in a secure manner that prevents the running at large of a wild animal during transportation or temporarily confining such an animal during handling.
  • Restraint means a primary enclosure or a secondary enclosure containing a wild animal in the presence of the owner or a vehicle specially equipped for transportation of wild animals.
  • Secondary enclosure means a structure such as a fence, wall or building that entirely encloses the area in which the primary enclosures, exercise facilities and training facilities are located and all handling activities occur. Such secondary enclosure serves to contain a wild animal from running at large and to prevent any unauthorized public access.
  • Structure means anything constructed or erected, the use of which requires a permanent location on the ground or attachment to something having a permanent location on the ground, such as a fence, wall or building.
  • Wild animal means a mammal, large or poisonous reptile and bird which, in their uncaptured wild state, have the physical capacity to be dangerous to the safety and welfare of any person or property. Examples of such wild animals are but are not limited to: ferrets, bears, lions, wolves, coyotes, cougars, bison, tigers, panthers, monkeys, apes, large alligators and crocodiles, large snakes (greater than three feet in length) and poisonous snakes; excluding dogs, cats, other traditional house pets and livestock. Reducing such mammals, reptiles and birds to captivity, whether trained, raised or bred in captivity or otherwise considered domesticated in any manner, shall not remove such wild animals from the requirements and regulations of this article.

Sec. 14-68. – General requirements.

  1. Prohibition. No person shall keep a wild animal unless such a use is specifically permitted by this article and all regulations are complied with.
  2. Abutting property owners shall be notified of application for intent to harbor wild animals at property.
  3. Regulations.
    1. Enclosures.
      1. A wild animal shall be confined, sheltered and fed in a primary enclosure contained entirely within a secondary enclosure.
      2. All such primary and secondary enclosures shall meet minimum requirements of structural soundness and security as deemed satisfactory by the village.
      3. All primary and secondary enclosures shall be:
        1. Constructed of steel bar, link, wire or other suitable material of sufficient strength to contain the proposed animal.
        2. Adequately braced and securely anchored at ground level.
        3. Constructed such as to prevent a wild animal from digging out from under the enclosure.
        4. Key or combination locked to prevent unauthorized entrance.
        5. Located so that all access to primary enclosures must be from within the secondary enclosure.
        6. Adequately signed to notify the public of the presence of wild animals and the danger which exists.
    2. Transportation. The transportation of a wild animal outside of the secondary enclosure shall be in a vehicle specially equipped for the transportation of wild animals and a portable primary enclosure as approved by the village.
    3. Running at large.
      1. It shall be prohibited for a wild animal to run at large.
      2. A wild animal shall be under the restraint of its owner.
      3. Tools for capturing wild animals shall be readily accessible, such as traps, tranquilizing guns, firearms and nets.
    4. Sanitation and health.
      1. The lot on which a wild animal is kept shall be maintained in a clean, sanitary and neat manner.
      2. A wild animal shall be maintained in a healthy state so as to prevent the transmittal of disease to other animals or persons.
      3. All animal waste shall be properly and timely disposed of.
    5. Zoning and lot requirements. All zoning ordinance regulations shall be complied with.

Sec. 14-69. – License.

  1. Prohibition. No person shall keep a wild animal unless a wild animal license has been approved by the village for that person and that activity in accordance with this article.
  2. Submittal of application. Complete application for a wild animal license shall include the following:
    1. Five copies of the completed application form.
    2. Five copies of a letter explaining in detail the proposed use and addressing regulations in section 14-68(c) and review criteria in subsection (e) below.
    3. Five copies of an accurate site plan drawn to scale or survey of the lot on which the proposed use would occur and the adjacent lots showing:
      1. Lot dimensions.
      2. Location, size and configuration of the area proposed to be used for the keeping of wild animals, including all existing and proposed buildings, structures and enclosures.
      3. Setbacks from front lot line, side lot lines and rear lot line and distances from neighboring dwellings, pastures, barns and corrals.
      4. Vegetation and terrain features, such as steep slopes, wetlands, woods and any natural and proposed screening or landscaping.
      5. Driveways, public and private roadways, parking and loading areas.
      6. Easements for roads, access, open space, views and utilities.
      7. Location of well and septic tank.
      8. A certificate of survey found necessary by the village.
    4. Two copies of all permits required from the state department of natural resources, federal department of agriculture, federal fish and wildlife, and any other governmental agency having jurisdiction.
    5. Two copies of the owner’s qualifications, list of professional references and any other background materials as required by the planning office.
    6. Payment of application fee and miscellaneous fees as established by village resolutions and ordinances.
    7. Two copies of building plans for primary and secondary enclosures.
    8. Any additional information found necessary by the planning office.
  3. Application deadline. A completed application for a wild animal license shall be submitted no later than 15 days before the next regularly scheduled plan commission meeting.
  4. Review by village board and plan commission.
    1. Upon submittal of a completed application, the planning office shall schedule a public hearing at the next plan commission meeting. The police chief and animal control warden shall receive a copy of the application and forward any recommendations to the planning office, who shall then review the application and village staff comments and may make recommendations to the plan commission. The plan commission shall consider the application for a wild animal license and thereafter make recommendations to the village board. The village board shall then approve, approve with modifications, or deny the application for a wild animal license by resolution, which shall set forth in detail any conditions and restrictions to which the approval is subject, or reasons for denial.
    2. If a renewal of a wild animal license is being applied for with no changes from the wild animal license issued by the village for the previous year, the planning office may place the application for the renewal of a wild animal license on the agenda of the next village board meeting and may waive the need for a public hearing or review by the plan commission.
  5. Review criteria. In acting upon an application for a wild animal license, the village shall consider the following criteria. The applicant shall prove that the use as proposed in the wild animal license application would not result in any detrimental effects.
    1. Surrounding land uses.
    2. Structural soundness and security of all primary and secondary enclosures.
    3. Design, size, location and configuration of all primary and secondary enclosures.
    4. Maintenance of the primary and secondary enclosures and all other structures and areas used in relation to the keeping of any wild animal.
    5. Nuisances, such as noise and odors.
    6. Aesthetics, including the appearance of the lot and structure where a wild animal is kept.
    7. Compliance with the village zoning code and other village ordinances.
    8. Regulations of the state department of natural resources, federal department of agriculture, federal fish and wildlife, or any other governmental agency.
    9. Nature and characteristics of each type of animal being proposed, such as its size, strength, disposition and its ability to harm a person or property.
    10. Other criteria found relevant by the village.
  6. Conditions of approval. In approving an application for a wild animal license, the village may attach conditions and restrictions as it finds necessary, including but not limited to the following:
    1. Restrictions on the number and type of animals.
    2. Setbacks greater than those required in the zoning ordinance.
    3. Minimum and maximum distance between primary and secondary enclosures.
    4. Minimum height of enclosures.
    5. Size of the enclosures.
  7. Expiration. The wild animal license shall expire 12 months from the date of issuance.
  8. Renewal of license. Application for renewal of a wild animal license with any changes shall be made a minimum of 15 days before the next regularly scheduled plan commission meeting. Application for renewal with no changes shall be made 11 days before the next regularly scheduled village board meeting providing that the public hearing and review before the plan commission has been waived. The village may require an inspection upon renewal of a wild animal license and shall reserve the right to have such inspection performed by an approved qualified consultant.

Sec. 14-70. – Variances.

  1. Variance and review criteria. Where the village finds that extraordinary hardships or practical difficulties may result from strict compliance with the provisions of this section and the purposes of this section may be served to the same or greater extent by an alternative proposal, the village may approve variances to this section so that substantial justice may be done and the public interest secured, provided that such variance shall not have the effect of nullifying the intent and purpose of this article; and the village shall not approve variances unless, based upon the evidence presented to it, it finds that:
    1. The granting of the variance would not be detrimental to the public safety, health or welfare, or injurious to property.
    2. The conditions which a variance would be based upon are unique to that application for which the variance is sought and are not applicable generally to other applications.
    3. The strict enforcement of this article would result in unreasonable and unnecessary requirements or restrictions because a particular hardship would result as distinguished from an inconvenience.
  2. Application and review. The application procedure for a variance from this section shall be the same as for a wild animal license, as prescribed in section 14-69(b)-(d). Variances may be reviewed concurrently with an application for a wild animal license.
  3. Conditions of approval. In approving an application for a variance, the village may attach conditions and restrictions as it finds necessary.

Sec. 14-71. – Fees.

The applicant for a wild animal license or variance shall pay an application fee as per village ordinances and resolutions. The applicant shall also pay for any costs or expenses incurred by the village during the processing and reviewing of the application that exceed the application fee. Such expenses shall include but are not limited to consultants and other professionals and the cost of printing, mailing and supplies. Such fees shall become due and payable immediately upon notification by the village. The village shall provide upon the request of the applicant a breakdown of the various expenses incurred by the village. The village may withhold any final action on an application for a wild animal license or variance and/or rescind prior actions until all fees are fully paid. The village may require additional deposits above and beyond the application fee if found necessary.

Sec. 14-72. – Inspection and revocation of licenses or variances.

The village may at any time inspect the lot and structures where a wild animal is kept to determine if the license or variance and the conditions and restrictions of that license or variance are being strictly adhered to. The village may require an inspection upon renewal of a wild animal license and shall reserve the right to have such inspection performed by an approved and qualified consultant.

Sec. 14-73. – Enforcement.

  1. Impoundment. In addition to the penalties imposed in section 14-74, a person in violation of this article may be subject to having the wild animals in question impounded or destroyed. Owners in violation of this article will have ten days to correct the violation and redeem a wild animal. The owner is responsible for all costs incurred by the village to capture, keep or destroy a wild animal. If a wild animal is not redeemed, the village will dispose of such wild animal in any manner it deems necessary, such as but not limited to selling, destroying or donating to an appropriate organization or agency.
  2. Rabies. A wild animal capable of transmitting rabies that has been known to have bitten a person shall be quarantined and observed for rabies under the direction of a licensed veterinarian for a period of time and in facilities determined to be adequate by that veterinarian and the village. If a wild animal is proved to be rabid, the wild animal shall be destroyed. If a wild animal is proven not to be rabid by a licensed veterinarian, it will be returned to the owner.
  3. Posing an immediate threat. The animal warden shall have the right to destroy a wild animal posing an immediate threat of serious harm to any person, livestock or house pet.

Sec. 14-74. – Penalty.

A person who fails to comply with or violates any provisions of this article, or the restrictions of a conditional use permit, wild animal license, or variance, shall be subject to punishment as provided in section 1-12 of this Code. Appropriate actions and proceedings may be taken by law or in equity to prevent a violation of this article, or the conditions or restrictions of a conditional use permit, wild animal license, or variance, to prevent unlawful construction, recover damages, restrain, correct or abate a violation, and prevent illegal use of a lot. These remedies shall be in addition to the penalties described above.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Village of North Hudson

No mention of exotic animals in ‘Chapter 10: Animals’

No mention of exotic animals in ‘Chapter 10: Animals’

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Village of Roberts

No mention of exotic animals in ‘Article III: Animals’

No mention of exotic animals in ‘Article III: Animals’

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Village of Spring Valley

Sec. 6-13 – Prohibited and protected animals, fowl, reptiles and insects.

  1. Protected animals.
    1. Possession and sale. It shall be unlawful for any person to possess with the intent to sell or offer for sale, or buy or attempt to buy, within the village, any of the following animals, when alive or dead, or any part or product thereof:
      1. All wild cats of the family felidae;
      2. Polar bears (Thalarctos maritimus);
      3. Red wolves (Canis niger), vicuna (Vicugna vicugna);
      4. Alligators, caimans or crocodiles of the order of crocodilia;
      5. Gray or timber wolves (Canis lupus);
      6. Sea otters (Enhydra lutris);
      7. Pacific Ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea);
      8. Atlantic green turtle (Chelonia mydas); or
      9. Mexican Ridley turtle (Lepidochelys kempi).
    2. Compliance with federal regulations. It shall be unlawful for any person to buy, sell or offer for sale a native or foreign species or subspecies of mammal, bird, amphibian or reptile, or the dead body, or parts thereof, which appear on the endangered species list designated by the United States Secretary of the Interior and published in the Code of Federal Regulations pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1969 (PL 135, 91st Congress).
    3. Regulation of the importation of certain birds. No person shall import, or cause to be imported, into the village any part of the plumage, skin or dead body of any species of hawk, owl or eagle. This subsection shall not be construed to forbid or restrict the importation or use of the plumage, skin or body, or any part thereof, of any species of hawk, owl or eagle legally collected for use by the American Indians for ceremonial purposes or in the preservation of their tribal customs and heritage.
  2. Exceptions. The provisions of subsection (a) of this section shall not be deemed to prevent the lawful importation, possession, purchase or sale of any species by any public agency, institute of higher learning, persons holding federal permits or a person holding a scientific collectors permit issued by the secretary of the state department of natural resources, or any person or organization licensed to present a circus.
  3. Wild animals. It shall be unlawful for any person to keep, maintain or have in his possession or under his control within the village any poisonous reptile or any other dangerous or carnivorous wild animal, insect or reptile, any vicious or danger- ous domesticated animal or any other animal or reptile of wild, vicious or dangerous propensities. Specifically, it shall be unlawful for any person to keep, maintain or have in his possession or under his control within the village any of the following animals, reptiles or insects:
    1. All poisonous animals and reptiles, including rear-fang snakes.
    2. Apes, chimpanzees (Pan), gibbons (Hylobates), gorillas (Gorilla), orangutans (Pongo) and ans siamangs (Symphalangus).
    3. Baboons (Papoi, Mandrillus).
    4. Bears (Ursidae).
    5. Bison (Bison).
    6. Cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus).
    7. Crocodilians (Crocodilia), 30 inches in length or more.
    8. Constrictor snakes, six feet in length or more.
    9. Coyotes (Canis latrans).
    10. Deer (Cervidae), including all members of the deer family, for example, whitetailed deer, elk, antelope and moose.
    11. Elephants (Elephas and Loxodonta).
    12. Game cocks and other fighting birds.
    13. Hippopotami (Hippopotamidae).
    14. Hyenas (Hyaenidae).
    15. Jaguars (Panthera onca).
    16. Leopards (Panthera pardus).
    17. Lions (Panthera leo).
    18. Lynxes (Lynx).
    19. Monkeys, old world (Cercopithecidae).
    20. Ostriches (Struthio).
    21. Piranha fish (Characidae).
    22. Poisonous insects.
    23. Pumas (Felis concolor), also known as cougars, mountain lions and panthers.
    24. Rhinoceroses (Rhinocero tidae).
    25. Sharks (class Chondrichthyes).
    26. Snow leopards (Panthera uncia).
    27. Tigers (Panthera tigris).
    28. Wolves (Canis lupus).
    29. Except in properly zoned districts, horses, mules, ponies, donkeys, cows, pigs, goats, sheep, chickens or any animal raised for fur-bearing purposes, unless otherwise permitted elsewhere in this Code.
  4. Exceptions. The prohibitions of subsection (c) of this section shall not apply where the creatures are in the care, custody or control of a veterinarian for treatment; agricultural fairs; shows or projects of the 4-H Clubs; a display for judging purposes; an itinerant or transient carnival, circus or other show; dog or cat shows or trials; public or private educational institutions; licensed pet shops; and zoological gardens, if:
    1. Their location conforms to the provisions of chapter 58, pertaining to zoning.
    2. All animals and animal quarters are kept in a clean and sanitary condition and maintained so as to eliminate objectionable odors.
    3. Animals are maintained in quarters constructed so as to prevent the animals’ escape.
    4. No person lives or resides within 100 feet of the quarters in which the animals

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Village of Star Prairie

Sec. 7-1-9 – Pit Bulls and Other Dangerous Animals.

  1. Keeping of Dangerous Animals Prohibited. It shall be unlawful to keep, harbor, own or in any way possess within the corporate limits of the Village of Star Prairie:
    1. Any warm-blooded, carnivorous or omnivorous, wild or exotic animal including but not limited to non-human primates, raccoons, skunks, foxes and wild and exotic cats.
    2. Any animal having poisonous bites.
    3. Any pit bull dog provided that pit bull dogs registered with the Village on the day this Section becomes effective may be kept within the Village subject to the standards and requirements set forth in Subsection (b) of this Section. “Pit bull dog” as that term is used in this Section is defined to mean:
      1. The Staffordshire bull terrier breed of dog;
      2. The American pit bull terrier breed of dog;
      3. The American Staffordshire terrier breed of dog;
      4. Any dog which has the appearance and characteristics of being predominantly of the breeds of Staffordshire bull terrier, American pit bull terrier, American Staffordshire terrier, or a combination of any of these breeds.
  2. Keeping of Registered Pit Bulls. The provisions of Subsection (a) are not applicable to owners, keepers or harbors of pit bull dogs registered with the Village of Star Prairie keeping, owning or harboring of such dogs is however subject to the following conditions:
    1. Leash and Muzzle. No person shall permit a registered pit bull dog to go outside its kennel or pen unless such dog is securely leashed with a leash no longer than four (4) feet in length. No person shall permit a pit bull dog to be kept on a chain, rope or other type of leash outside its kennel or pen unless a person is in physical control of the leash. Such dogs may not be leashed to inanimate objects such as trees, posts, buildings, etc. In addition, all pit bull dogs on a leash outside the animal’s kennel or pen must be muzzled by a muzzling device sufficient to prevent such dog from biting persons or other animals.
    2. Confinement. All registered pit bull dogs shall be securely confined indoors or in a securely enclosed and locked pen or kennel except when leashed and muzzled as provided in Subsection (b)(1). All pens or kennels shall comply with all zoning and building regulations of the Village and shall be kept in a clean and sanitary condition.
    3. Confinement Indoors. No pit bull dog may be kept on a porch, patio or in any part of a hours or structure that would allow the dog to exit such building on its own volition.
    4. Signs. All owners, keepers or harborers of registered pit bull dogs within the Village shall within ten (10) days of the effective date of this Section display in a prominent place on their premises a sign easily readable by the public using the words “Beware of Dog”. In addition, a similar sign is required to be posted on the kennel or pen of such animal.
    5. Insurance. All owners, keepers or harborers of registered pit bull dogs must within thirty (30) days of the effective date of this Section provide proof to the Clerk- Treasurer of public liability insurance in a single incident amount of Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000) for bodily injury to or death of any person or persons or for damage to property owned by any persons which may result from the ownership, keeping or maintenance of such animal. Such insurance policy shall provide that no cancellation of the policy will be made unless ten (10) days written notice is first given to the Clerk-Treasurer.
    6. Registration. All owners, keepers or harborers of pit bull dogs shall within thirty (30) days after the effective date of this Section register said dog with the Village by filing with the Clerk-Treasurer two (2) color photographs of the dog clearly showing the color and approximate size of the dog.
    7. Reporting Requirements. All owners, keepers or harborers of registered pit bull dogs must within ten (10) days of the incident, report the following information in writing to the Clerk-Treasurer:
      1. The removal from the Village or death of a registered pit bull;
      2. The birth of offspring of a registered pit bull dog;
      3. The new address of a registered pit bull dog should the dog be moved within the Village of Star Prairie.
      4. If the registered pit bull dog is sold, the name and address of the new owner.
    8. Animals Born of Registered Dogs. All offspring born of pit bull dogs registered within the Village must be removed from the Village within six (6) weeks after the birth of said animal.
    9. Failure to Comply. It shall be unlawful for the owner, keeper or harborer of a pit bull dog registered with the Village to fail to comply with the requirements and conditions set forth in this Section.

Sec. 7-1-13 – Prohibited and Protected Animals, Fowl, Reptiles and Insects; Farm Animals.

  1. Protected Animals.
    1. Possession and Sale of Protected Animals. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to possess with intent to sell or offer for sale, or buy or attempt to buy, within the Village of Star Prairie any of the following animals, alive or dead, or any part or product thereof: all wild cats of the family felidae, polar bear (thalarctos maritimus), red wolf (canis niger), vicuna (vicugna vicugna), gray or timber wolf (canis lupus), sea otter (enhydra lutris), Pacific ridley turtle (lepidochelys olivacea), Atlantic green turtle (chelonia mydas), Mexican ridley turtle (lepidochelys kempi).
    2. Compliance with Federal Regulations. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to buy, sell or offer for sale a native or foreign species or subspecies of mammal, bird, amphibian or reptile, or the dead body or parts thereof, which appears on the endangered species list designated by the United States Secretary of the Interior and published in the Code of Federal Regulations pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1969 (Public Law 135, 91st Congress).
    3. Regulating the Importation of Certain Birds. No person, firm or corporation shall import or cause to be imported into this Village any part of the plumage, skin or dead body of any species of hawk, owl or eagle. This paragraph shall not be construed to forbid or restrict the importation or use of the plumage, skin, body or any part thereof legally collected for use by the American Indians for ceremonial purposes or in the preservation of their tribal customs and heritage.
  2. Exceptions. The provisions of Subsection (a) above shall not be deemed to prevent the lawful importation, possession, purchase or sale of any species by any public agency, institute of higher learning, persons holding federal permits, or by a person holding a Scientific Collectors Permit issued by the Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources of the state, or to any person or organization licensed to present a circus.
  3. Wild Animals; Prohibition on Keeping. It shall be unlawful for any person to keep, maintain or have in his/her possession or under his/her control within the Village any poisonous reptile or any other dangerous or carnivorous wild animal, insect or reptile, any vicious or dangerous domesticated animal or any other animal or reptile of wild, vicious or dangerous propensities. Specifically, it shall be unlawful for any person to keep, maintain or have in his possession or under his/her control within the Village any of the following animals, reptiles or insects [this list is intended to illustrate examples only and is not meant to be exclusive; any animal, insect or reptile which comes within the purview of the description provided in this Subsection (c) shall be subject to the prohibitions contained in it]:
    1. All poisonous animals and reptiles including rear-fang snakes.
    2. Apes: Chimpanzees (Pan); gibbons (Hylobates); gorillas (Gorilla); orangutans (Pongo); ans siamangs (Symphalangus).
    3. Baboons (Papoi, Mandrillus).
    4. Bears (Ursidae).
    5. Bison (Bison).
    6. Cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus).
    7. Crocodilians (Crocodilia), thirty (30) inches in length or more.
    8. Constrictor snakes.
    9. Coyotes (Canis latrans).
    10. Deer (Cervidae); includes all members of the deer family; for example, whitetailed deer, elk, antelope and moose.
    11. Elephants (Elephas and Loxodonta).
    12. Game cocks and other fighting birds.
    13. Hippopotami (Hippopotamidae).
    14. Hyenas (Hyaenidae).
    15. Jaguars (Panthera onca).
    16. Leopards (Panthera pardus).
    17. Lions (Panthera leo).
    18. Lynxes (Lynx).
    19. Monkeys, old world (Cercopithecidae).
    20. Ostriches (Struthio).
    21. Pumas (Felis concolor); also known as cougars, mountain lions and panthers.
    22. Rhinoceroses (Rhinocero tidae).
    23. Sharks (class Chondrichthyes).
    24. Snow leopards (Panthera uncia).
    25. Tigers (Panthera tigris).
    26. Wolves (Canis lupus).
    27. Poisonous insects.
  4. Exceptions; Pet Shops. The prohibitions of Subsection (c) above shall not apply where the creatures are in the care, custody or control of: a veterinarian for treatment; agricultural fairs; shows or projects of the 4-H Clubs; a display for judging purposes; an itinerant or transient carnival, circus or other show; dog or cat shows or trials; public or private educational institutions; licensed pet shops; zoological gardens; if:
    1. Their location conforms to the provisions of the zoning ordinance of the Village of Star Prairie.
    2. All animals and animal quarters are kept in a clean and sanitary condition and so maintained as to eliminate objectionable odors.
    3. Animals are maintained in quarters so constructed as to prevent their escape.
    4. No person lives or resides within one hundred (100) feet of the quarters in which the animals are kept.
  5. Farm Animals; Miniature Pigs. Except as provided in Section 7-1-22 regarding miniature pigs and on properties zoned in an agricultural classification, no person shall own, keep, harbor or board any cattle, horses, ponies, swine, goats, sheep, fowl [more than two (2)] or rabbits [more than four (4)]. For purposes of this Subsection, the term “swine” shall not include any miniature pigs of either sex weighing less than eighty (80) pounds which are intended for and kept as domestic pets.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Village of Woodville

§ 212-13: Protected animals; wild animals and insects; farm animals.

  1. Protected animals.
    1. Possession and sale of protected animals. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to possess with intent to sell or offer for sale, or buy or attempt to buy, within the Village any of the following animals, alive or dead, or any part or product thereof: all wild cats of the family Felidae, polar bear (Ursus maritimus), red wolf (Canis lupus rufus), vicuna (Vicugna vicugna), gray or timber wolf (Canis lupus), sea otter (Enhydra lutris), Pacific ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea), Atlantic green turtle (Chelonia mydas), or Mexican ridley turtle (Lepidochelys kempii).
    2. Compliance with federal regulations. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to buy, sell or offer for sale a native or foreign species or subspecies of mammal, bird, amphibian or reptile, or the dead body or parts thereof, which appears on the endangered species list designated by the United States Secretary of the Interior and published in the Code of Federal Regulations pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1969 (Public Law 135, 91st Congress).
    3. Regulating the importation of certain birds. No person, firm or corporation shall import or cause to be imported into this Village any part of the plumage, skin or dead body of any species of hawk, owl or eagle. This subsection shall not be construed to forbid or restrict the importation or use of the plumage, skin, body or any part thereof legally collected for use by the American Indians for ceremonial purposes or in the preservation of their tribal customs and heritage.
  2. Exceptions. The provisions of Subsection A above shall not be deemed to prevent the lawful importation, possession, purchase or sale of any species by any public agency, institute of higher learning, persons holding federal permits, a person holding a scientific collector’s permit issued by the Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources of the state or any person or organization licensed to present a circus.
  3. Wild animals; prohibition on keeping. It shall be unlawful for any person to keep, maintain or have in his possession or under his control within the Village any poisonous reptile or any other dangerous or carnivorous wild animal, insect or reptile, any vicious or dangerous domesticated animal or any other animal or reptile of wild, vicious or dangerous propensities. Specifically, it shall be unlawful for any person to keep, maintain or have in his possession or under his control within the Village any of the following animals, reptiles or insects:
    1. All poisonous animals and reptiles, including rear-fang snakes.
    2. Apes: chimpanzees (Pan); gibbons (Hylobates); gorillas (Gorilla); orangutans (Pongo); and siamangs (Symphalangus).
    3. Baboons (Papio).
    4. Bears (Ursidae).
    5. Bison (Bison).
    6. Cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus).
    7. Crocodilians (Crocodilia), 30 inches in length or more.
    8. Coyotes (Canis latrans).
    9. Deer (Cervidae); includes all members of the deer family; for example, whitetailed deer, elk, antelope and moose.
    10. Elephants (Elephas and Loxodonta).
    11. Game cocks and other fighting birds.
    12. Hippopotami (Hippopotamidae).
    13. Hyenas (Hyaenidae).
    14. Jaguars (Panthera onca).
    15. Leopards (Panthera pardus).
    16. Lions (Panthera leo).
    17. Lynxes (Lynx).
    18. Monkeys, old world (Cercopithecidae).
    19. Ostriches (Struthio).
    20. Pumas (Felis concolor), also known as cougars, mountain lions and panthers.
    21. Rhinoceroses (Rhinocerotidae).
    22. Sharks (Chondrichthyes).
    23. Snow leopards (Uncia uncia).
    24. Tigers (Panthera tigris).
    25. Wolves (Canis lupus).
    26. Poisonous insects.
  4. Exceptions; pet shops. The prohibitions of Subsection C above shall not apply where the creatures are in the care, custody or control of a veterinarian for treatment or to agricultural fairs, shows or projects of the 4-H clubs, a display for judging purposes, an itinerant or transient carnival, circus or other show, dog or cat shows or trials, public or private educational institutions, licensed pet shops or zoological gardens if:
    1. Their location conforms to the provisions of Chapter 525, Zoning, of this Code.
    2. All animals and animal quarters are kept in a clean and sanitary condition and so maintained as to eliminate objectionable odors.
    3. Animals are maintained in quarters so constructed as to prevent their escape.
    4. No person lives or resides within 100 feet of the quarters in which the animals are kept.
  5. Farm animals; miniature pigs. Except on properties zoned in an agricultural classification, no person in the Village of Woodville shall own, keep, harbor or board any cattle, horses, ponies, swine, goats (more than two and only females and altered males only weighing less than 80 pounds), sheep, fowl (no roosters and more than two) or rabbits (more than two). For purposes of this subsection, those allowed are intended for and kept solely as domestic pets with no butchering, milking or breeding. The term “swine” shall not include any miniature pigs of either sex weighing less than 80 pounds.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Baldwin

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Cady

Sec. 7-1-9 – Keeping Of Exotic Animals; Protected Animals, Fowl, Reptiles and Insects.

  1. Intent.
    1. Purpose. It is the purpose and intent of the Town of Cady in adopting this Section to protect the public safety, health and general welfare from the safety and health risks that the unregulated keeping or harboring of exotic animals can pose to the community and to protect the health and welfare of permitted exotic animals held in private possession. By their very nature, exotic animals are wild and potentially dangerous, and, typically, do not adjust well to a captive environment. This Section shall be liberally construed in favor of the Town’s right and authority to protect the public health, safety and welfare.
    2. Prohibition. It shall be unlawful for any person to own, possess, maintain, harbor, bring into the Town, have in one’s possession, act as a custodian for, or have custody or control on an exotic animal, except in compliance with this Section.
  2. Definitions. The following definitions and terms shall be applicable in this Section. Words used in the present tense include the future; the singular number includes the plural number; and the plural number includes the singular number. The word “shall” is mandatory and not permissive; the word “may” is nonmandatory and discretionary:
    1. Animal. For purposes of this Section, shall mean exotic animals.
    2. Animal Control Officer. Law enforcement officers, Building Inspector, Town Chairperson, animal control officers, humane society employees, or any other person designated by the Town of Cady to enforce or assist in the enforcement of this Section.
    3. Animal Shelter. Any premises designated or used by the Town for the purpose of impounding and caring for animals found in violation of this Section, or of any other Town ordinance regulating the keeping of and care of animals. Included within this definition are animal shelters whose services are secured by the Town through contract or intergovernmental agreement.
    4. At Large. An animal is at large when: It is off the property of the owner and not properly confined or restrained in a manner such that the risk of uncontrolled or accidental contact by the animal with humans or domesticated animals has been minimized; or
      It is on the property of the owner, but is improperly restrained or confined so as to pose a risk of leaving the property and having uncontrolled or accidental contact by with humans or domesticated animals off of the owner’s property; or
      It is so improperly, inadequately or negligently restrained or confined on the owner’s property so to pose a risk of potentially dangerous contact with humans or domesticated animals which come on to the owner’s property.
    5. Enclosure or Enclosure Area. The indoor and/or outdoor area in which an animal is kept confined or restrained, including any structure(s) in which it is kept, confined or restrained.
    6. Exotic Animal (including USDA Dangerous Animals). Any animal, fowl, insect, or reptile that is not normally domesticated in Wisconsin or is inherently wild by nature. Exotic animals include, but are not limited to, any or all of the following orders, families and/or species, whether bred in the wild or in captivity, and also hybrids with domestic species. The animals, fowl, insects, and reptiles listed in parentheses are intended to act as examples and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list nor to limit the generality of each group of animals, fowl, reptiles or insects:
    7. Humane Society. The Humane Society of St. Croix County or similar organization.
    8. Own/Owner/Owning. Any person, corporation, partnership, limited liability corporation, organization, association, joint venture, trust, or other legal entity who possesses, harbors, keeps, controls, boards, or has in his/her custody an exotic animal in the Village of Deer Park, and any officer, member, shareholder, director, employee, agent or representative thereof. Any animal is being harbored if it is being fed and/or sheltered by such party.
    9. Section. The same meaning as “this Ordinance.”
    10. Solid Surface. A surface constructed of cement, concrete, metal, asphalt, fiberglass or similar such hard, impervious surface.
    11. Village. The Village of Deer Park, St. Croix County, Wisconsin.
    12. Village Board. The Village Board of the Village of Deer Park, and authorized committees and subunits thereof including Village officials employees or agents
  3. Compliance with Federal Regulations.
    1. Federal Code Requirements. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to buy, sell or offer for sale a native or foreign species or subspecies of mammal, bird, amphibian or reptile, or the dead body or parts thereof, which appears on the endangered species list designated by the United States Secretary of the Department of Interior and published in the Code of Federal Regulations pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1969 (Public Law 135, 91st Congress).
    2. Regulation of the Importation of Birds. No person, firm or corporation shall import or cause to be imported into the Village of Deer Park any part of the plumage, skin or dead body of any species of hawk, owl or eagle. This Subsection shall not be construed to forbid or restrict the importation or use of the plumage, skin, body or any part thereof legally collected for use by American Indian Nations for ceremonial purposes or in the preservation of their tribal customs and heritage.
  4. Exotic Animal Permit Requirement – Application for Permit.
    1. Sale, Importation, Transfer, Purchase and/or Gifting of an Exotic Animal. It shall be unlawful for any person to:
      1. Import, transfer, sell, own, or purchase an exotic animal in the Village of Deer Park without first obtaining a permit from the Village Board as prescribed by this Section, unless exempt from such permit requirement.
      2. Sell, transfer, deliver, or give an exotic animal to any other person in the Village of Deer Park without first obtaining a permit from the Village Board as prescribed by this Section, unless exempt from such permit requirement.
    2. Keeping, Harboring, Maintaining or Controlling an Exotic Animal; Zoning.
      1. It shall be unlawful for any person in the Village of Deer Park to own, keep, maintain, harbor, board, or control an exotic animal without first obtaining a permit from the Village Board as prescribed by this Section, unless exempt from such permit requirement.
      2. An exotic animal may only be kept, harbored or maintained on a parcel in a Conservancy or Agricultural Zoning classification.
    3. Exceptions to Exotic Animal Permit Requirement. The exotic animal permit requirements of this Section shall not apply to:
      1. Institutions accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA).
      2. State licensed humane societies.
      3. Animal control or law enforcement officers acting in an official capacity.
      4. State licensed veterinary hospitals or clinics.
      5. Persons holding a Scientific Collectors Permit issued by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
      6. Any person, company or organization presenting a transient or itinerant circus or
      7. Wildlife rehabilitators licensed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources who temporarily keep, nurture, rehabilitate, and care for exotic animals which are injured or in need of rehabilitation, with the primary purpose of returning such animals to the wild. No animal may be kept under this exception for a period of more than ninety (90) days. No animal may be kept under this exception that poses a danger to the community or domestic animals.
      8. State licensed or accredited research or medical institution.
      9. Any person temporarily transporting an exotic animal through the Village if the transit time is not more than twenty-four (24) hours and the animal is at all times maintained within a confinement sufficient to prevent the exotic animal from escaping.
    4. Application; Required Application Information. An applicant for an exotic animal permit shall file an application with the Village Clerk-Treasurer containing the following information:
      1. Basic Application Information. The applicant shall file the following information at the time of application filing:
        1. The name, address, and telephone number of the applicant.
        2. A description of each exotic animal the applicant possesses, or seeks to possess, including the scientific name, common name, sex, age, color, weight and any distinguishing marks or coloration that would aid in the identification of the animal.
        3. A photograph of each exotic animal.
        4. A description of the exact location and confinement facilities where the exotic animal will be kept.
        5. The names, addresses, and telephone number of the person from whom the applicant obtained the exotic animal, if known.
        6. The name and address of the veterinarian providing veterinary care to the exotic animal and a certificate of good health for the exotic animal from that veterinarian.
        7. A plan for the prompt and safe recapture of the exotic animal if the exotic animal escapes. Each applicant/permittee shall have a plan for the quick and safe recapture of the exotic animal if the animal escapes, and, if recapture is impossible, then a plan for the destruction of the exotic animal.
        8. In the case of exotic animals included on the United States Department of Agriculture’s dangerous animal list, proof of having obtained a minimum of one year’s, paid in full liability insurance in an amount not less than Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000) for each occurrence for liability damages for destruction of or damage to property and death or bodily injury to a person caused by the exotic animal. [Failure to at all times keep such liability insurance in full force and effect during the life of the permit shall immediately terminate the validity of such permit; it is the responsibility of the permittee to immediately notify the Village Clerk-Treasurer, in writing, of any changes in his/her insurance status, validity or carrier]. The Village of Deer Park shall be listed as a named co-insured solely for the purpose of notice of cancellation of such insurance policy.
        9. Copies of all United States Department of Agriculture, United States Department of Interior, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and any other state or federal permits/ licenses issued to the applicant approving of or governing the applicant’s possession of the species for which a Village exotic animal permit is being sought.
        10. Exotic animal permit application fee in the amount per animal as prescribed in Sec. 1-3-1.
        11. Any other information required by Village of Deer Park authorities to properly consider the application.
      2. Certified Information. The applicant shall certify in writing that:
        1. The applicant is eighteen (18) years of age or older.
        2. The applicant has not been convicted of or found responsible for violating a local or state law prohibiting cruelty, neglect, or mistreatment of animals or has not within the last ten (10) years been convicted for possession, sale or use of illegal narcotics or controlled substances.
        3. The facility and the conditions in which the exotic animal will be kept are in compliance with this Section and all other applicable state and local regulations.
        4. The applicant has regularly provided veterinary care to the exotic animal when needed and will provide such care in the future.
        5. Proof that a licensed veterinarian has spayed or neutered the exotic animal.
  5. Review of Exotic Animal Permit Application; Issuance; Conditions of Permit Issuance; Renewals.
    1. Consideration of Application. Upon receipt of the application, application fee and all of the information required by Subsection (d)(4) above, the Village Clerk-Treasurer shall schedule consideration of the application before the Village Board, duly noticing the consideration of the application on the notice/agenda for such meeting in compliance with the Wisconsin Open Meeting Law. All neighboring property owners and residents located within three hundred (300) feet of the applicant’s property shall receive written notice of the meeting at which the application is to be considered by the Village Board a minimum of seven (7) days prior to the meeting date.
    2. Village Board Action. Upon consideration of the application, the Village Board may issue an exotic animal permit if the Village Board is satisfied that:
      1. All of the application and insurance requirements required by Subsections (d)(4) and (e)(4) have been fully satisfied;
      2. The applicant has provided credentials, satisfactory to the Village Board, establishing that the applicant/owner is properly trained to handle, care for, restrain, and recapture the type of animal for which the permit application is being made;
      3. The applicant has provided either application information or oral testimony at the application review meeting demonstrating ownership of, and training and proficiency with, tranquilizing and restraint equipment that is species-appropriate, to the satisfaction of the Village Board, and shall demonstrate adequate training and certification in first aid and CPR;
      4. The exotic animal and the manner in which it will be kept will be fully in compliance with the requirements of this Section and that the animal will be kept in such manner so as not pose a threat to public safety and health;
      5. The applicant has demonstrated that the animal will be kept in a humane manner consistent with this Section and all other applicable federal and state standards; and
      6. The site is properly zoned for such use.
    3. Validity.
      1. A copy of the exotic animal permit shall be displayed, in plain view, on or reasonably near the animal’s confinement area.
      2. An exotic animal permit is not transferable without re-application under this Section. Permits for each exotic animal shall be valid for one (1) year.
      3. The permit year shall commence on January 1 or as soon thereafter as officially issued and expire on December 31 of that year.
      4. In addition to the application fee under Subsection (d)(4), the fee for an annual exotic animal permit, or renewal thereof, shall be as prescribed in Section 1-3-1 for each exotic animal.
    4. Permit Renewal; Issuance Criteria. a. Exotic animal permit renewal applications shall be submitted to the Village Clerk-Treasurer on or before November 15 of the permit year. b. Along with each permit renewal application, the applicant shall submit the required renewal fee, a current certificate of good health for the animal(s), update in full all information required for the original permit, and provide proof of the required continued paid-up liability insurance [such proof of insurance shall be no more than thirty (30) days old.] The Village Board shall consider renewals in the same manner as with the issuance of original permits. The Village Board shall not issue or renew a permit if it determines that: 1. The applicant has been convicted of cruelty to animals within the previous ten (10) years; The applicant has failed to provide, withheld or falsified any required permit application or renewal information; or 3. The applicant is, or has been, unable to comply with the requirements necessary to obtain a permit or has failed to comply with the provisions of this Section at any time during the permit year.
    5. Permit Revocation. The Village Board may revoke a permit for violation of this Section after giving written notice of the reasons for revocation to the permit holder. The Village of Deer Park shall give the permittee notice, by certified mail with receipt requested, of intent to consider revocation of the exotic animal permit. The Village shall give the permittee an opportunity to respond to the notice and address the issues identified at an open, noticed Village Board meeting, after which the Village Board shall make its determination, with the reasons therefor included in the record of the Board’s meeting.
    6. Permit Transfer. If an owner can no longer properly care for his/her exotic animal, that person may only transfer his/her exotic animal to another person who has been issued a valid exotic animal permit by the Village Board. An owner/permittee shall notify the Village Clerk-Treasurer of any changes central to the validity of the permit, including the death of the exotic animal.
  6. Confinement Standards for Exotic Animals.
    1. Prohibited Confinement. An exotic animal shall not be tethered, leashed, chained outdoors, or allowed to run at large.
    2. Confinement Standards.
      1. All exotic animals governed by this Section shall be confined in a building or secure enclosure that has a floor, a secure roof and sides, constructed and maintained so as to securely confine the animal and provide sufficient space to allow each animal adequate freedom of movement. Inadequate space may be indicated by evidence of animal debilitation, stress, abnormal behavior patterns, or the professional opinion of a veterinarian, a qualified animal trainer, or experts from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), United States Department of Interior, or Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
      2. For each exotic animal, the permittee shall comply with the AZA’s “Minimum Guidelines” for animal care and maintenance or the USDA’s standards for the humane handling, care and treatment of exotic animals [9 CFR Subchapter A (Animal Welfare, Part 3)], whichever is more restrictive. These standards shall provide the basis against which to assess the sufficiency of space or facility for animals for which a permit is sought or held.
      3. The Village of Clerk-Treasurer recognizes that exotic animals typically require extra care in the provision of confinement and care due to the climate and conditions of their original place of origin.
    3. Minimum Outdoor Area Standards. The outdoor area of an exotic animal’s enclosure shall, at a minimum:
      1. Have two (2) sets of wire enclosures with a minimum of four (4) inches separation between them;
      2. Have the sides of the wire enclosure extend downward and be buried a minimum of twelve (12) inches below ground;
      3. Incorporate a roof design with independent fencing separate from and located between the roof and floor of the enclosure so as to prevent escape in the event high winds damage the roof over the enclosure;
      4. Have a floor with a minimum six (6) inch perimeter of breaker rock-grade aggregate around the borders of the enclosed area and a minimum five (5) inch uniform depth of Class Five gravel for the floor, or a floor with a minimum four (4) inch uniform depth of concrete or asphalt over the remainder of the enclosure floor;
      5. Be provided with shelter that allows the exotic animal, if kept outdoors, to remain dry and warm during snow/sleet/rain;
      6. In the alternative, present to and secure approval from the Village Board for an alternative outdoor confinement system that substantially complies with the safeguards of this Section.
      7. In addition to the structural requirements of the exotic animal’s outdoor enclosure, the permittee shall:
        1. Ensure that the outdoor area is maintained in a safe and healthful manner;
        2. Keep the outdoor area free of standing water, accumulated waste, and debris;
        3. Ensure that sufficient shade, by natural or artificial means, is available when the animal is outdoors; and
        4. Maintain the structural soundness of the outdoor structure in good repair to protect the exotic animals from injury and to prevent escape.
    4. Minimum Indoor Area Standards. The indoor area of an exotic animal’s enclosure shall:
      1. Be an insulated, moisture-proof and windproof structure of adequate area to accommodate the need of the animal for adequate freedom of movement;
      2. Contain a solid floor of no less than four (4) inches thick to prevent the animal from escaping;
      3. Incorporate a roof design with independent fencing separate from and located between the roof and floor of the enclosure so as to prevent escape in the event high winds blow off the roof over the enclosure;
      4. Locate the entrance to the building in which the animal is housed facing away from prevailing winds; and
      5. Have a self-closing door over the human and animal entryway during the winter months to protect the animal from cold temperatures.
      6. In addition to the structural requirements of the animal’s indoor enclosure area, the owner of an animal shall:
        1. Ensure that the indoor enclosure area remains at an ambient temperature that will maintain the good health of the exotic animal;
        2. Provide proper ventilation of the indoor structure by natural or mechanical means to provide fresh air for the animal and to prevent moisture condensation;
        3. Ensure that the animal has natural or artificial lighting and adequate heat and ventilation to properly provide for the health of the animal at all times;
        4. Ensure that the animal has proper bedding in sufficient quantity for insulation against the cold and dampness and that is changed regularly; and
        5. Maintain the indoor enclosure area in good repair to protect the animal from injury and to prevent escape.
      7. Notification Signs. All owners/permittees of an exotic animal(s) shall have continuously posted and displayed at each normal entrance onto the premises where an exotic animal is kept a conspicuous sign, clearly visible, and easily readable by the public, warning that there is an exotic animal on the premises. At least one such sign shall be located within twenty (20) feet of the animal’s confinement area using the words “BEWARE OF”, with the last word to indicate the type of exotic animal that is being confined. In addition, the permittee shall conspicuously display a sign with a warning symbol that adequately informs children of the presence of an exotic animal.
      8. Escape and Liability for Escape.
        1. Notification of Escape.
          1. An owner/permittee shall immediately notify the Village Clerk-Treasurer, local Humane Society, the Village’s animal control officer, and law enforcement authorities serving the Village, including but not limited to, the County Sheriff’s Department, of the escape of any exotic animal for which a permit is required
          2. No person may intentionally release an exotic animal. If an exotic animal is released by any party, authorized or unauthorized, the owner/permittee is liable for all expenses associated with efforts to recapture the animal, and may, in addition, be subject to a forfeiture.
        2. Liability.
          1. The owner/permittee shall be liable for all costs incurred by any public authority or their agents and resulting from the escape of any animal for which a permit is required, including boarding, placement, veterinarian and legal fees.
          2. Neither the Village of Deer Park or any agent of the Village shall be liable for the loss, death, injury or destruction of any animal for which a permit is required, nor shall the Village be liable for any injury or damage caused by any animal for which a permit is required and issued under this Section.
      9. Inspection. The owner/permittee of an exotic animal, at all reasonable times, shall allow designated inspectors of the Village, humane officers and law enforcement authorities to enter the premises where the animal is kept to ensure compliance with this Section as a condition of permit issuance. Such Village representatives may conduct a minimum of three (3) periodic, unannounced inspections of the outdoor and indoor enclosure areas per twelve (12) month period for USDA-designated dangerous exotic animals, and a minimum of one (1) such unannounced inspection per twelve (12) month period for non-dangerous exotic animals, to ensure that said areas are being maintained in the manner required by this Section.
      10. Restraint and Impoundment.
        1. Animals At Large May Be Impounded.
          1. All exotic animals shall be kept confined or under proper restraint by their owners as provided herein and shall not be permitted to run at large. Unrestrained exotic animals and animals running at large may be taken into custody in accordance with Chapter 173, Wis. Stats., and impounded at any facility deemed appropriate for the protection of the public and with facilities and equipment that permit the facility to adequately care for the animal. Such animals shall be considered to be abandoned.
          2. Animal control officers, designees of the Village of Deer Park, humane officers or law enforcement officers, upon receipt of information indicating probable cause of a violation of this Section, may in his/her discretion, and after investigation, seize and impound an animal in emergency situations or where previous written notice has failed to produce compliance and when otherwise authorized by law.
        2. Failure to Reclaim; Costs.
          1. If an owner fails to reclaim an exotic animal within seven (7) days of taking the animal into custody, the Village shall consider the animal to be unclaimed, as authorized by Section 173.23(1m), Wis. Stats., and shall take such steps as authorized by law. The Village may contact the American Zoo and Aquarium Association for further assistance.
          2. The animal’s owner is liable for the costs of capture, care and placement for the exotic animal from the time of confiscation until the time of return to the owner, until the animal is disposed of, or until the time the animal has been relocated to an approved facility, such as a proper wildlife sanctuary.
          3. If an exotic animal is confiscated due to the animal being kept in contravention of this Section, the animal’s owner is required to post a security bond or cash deposit with the Village and/or animal control authority in an amount sufficient to guarantee payment of all reasonable costs expected to be incurred in caring and providing for the animal, including, but not limited to, the estimated cost of feeding, medical care, and housing for at least thirty (30) days. The posting of the bond or cash deposit shall not prevent the Village of Deer Park or animal control authority from disposing of the animal as permitted by law at the end of the thirty (30) days.
          4. An exotic animal may be returned to its owner only if, to the satisfaction of the Village Board, the possessor has a valid Village exotic animal permit, has corrected the conditions resulting in the confiscation, and has paid in full the cost of placement and care of the animal while under the care and control of the Village or humane society.
          5. If the owner of a confiscated exotic animal cannot be located or if a confiscated animal remains unclaimed, the Village or humane society may, at its discretion, contact an approved facility, such as an institution accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA), allow the animal to be adopted by a party who can satisfy the permit requirements of this Section, or may euthanize the animal as permitted by law.
          6. If an escaped exotic animal cannot be recaptured safely and is posing a threat to public health and safety, authorities may euthanize the animal as permitted by law.
      11. Animal Care.
        1. Food and Water. No owner shall fail to provide an exotic animal in his/her care with sufficient food, potable water, or shelter when needed.
        2. Humane Treatment. No person shall ill-treat, beat, torment or otherwise abuse an exotic animal.
      12. Incidents Causing Injury.
        1. Notification. All incidents in the Village of Deer Park in which an exotic animal injures or is suspected of injuring any person or domesticated animal shall be reported by the permittee to the Village Clerk-Treasurer and law enforcement authorities within two (2) hours of the incident.
        2. Liability. The owner of an exotic animal shall be responsible for all expenses incurred as a result of an injury inflicted or suffered by an exotic animal, whether expenses are incurred by the family of the victim, the victim, the Village or on behalf of the animal involved.
      13. Sanitation.
        1. Fecal Matter; Odor. Any person who owns, harbors, keeps, or controls an exotic animal shall be responsible for keeping his/her property properly clean of fecal matter and to keep obnoxious odors under control.
        2. Waste Disposal. Disposal of all animal waste shall be in a manner that is consistent with normal agricultural practices and adequately protects human and animal health.
      14. Limitation on Exotic Animal Numbers. No person shall own, harbor or keep in his/her possession on any one parcel of propety more than two (2) exotic animals over five (5) months of age at any one time, nor shall any person retain a litter/offspring, or portion thereof, of exotic animals longer than five (5) months following birth.
      15. Compliance; Enforcement
        1. Transition Period.
          1. As a measure deemed necessary by the Village Board to protect the public safety, health and welfare, this Section shall apply to owners of exotic animals in the Village of Deer Park and who possess, harbor, board or keep an exotic animal(s) on the effective date of this Section.
          2. All such existing exotic animal owners shall file with the Village Clerk-Treasurer the location, species, gender and age of each such exotic animal within thirty (30) days of the effective date of this Section.
          3. All such existing exotic animal owners shall comply with this Section, including applying for an exotic animal permit, within ninety (90) days of the effective date of this Section.
          4. An exotic animal permit may be issued by the Village Board under the standards and procedures of this Section.
          5. Failure to apply for, and be granted, an exotic animal permit shall result in the animal being removed from its owner by the Village of Deer Park, or its designees, within six (6) months of the effective date.
        2. Enforcement.
          1. The Village Board, with the assistance of the humane society, animal control officers, and other law enforcement authorities, and such veterinarian assistance as may be needed shall be primarily responsible for the enforcement of this of this Section.
          2. The Village Board may appoint additional persons as may be necessary to assist with the enforcement of this Section.
      16. Penalties. The following penalties shall apply to all violatons of this Section:
        1. Forfeiture. Any person who fails to comply with the provisions of this Section shall, upon adjudication of the violation, be subject to a forfeiture of not less than One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) or more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) per violation, plus the costs of prosecution and any assessments and expenses related to enforcement authorized elsewhere in this Section. Each day of violation constitute a separate offense. This penalty is in addition to any other remedies for non-compliance set forth elsewhere in this Section.
        2. Interference With Enforcement. It is unlawful for a permittee/owner or any other person harboring, keeping, boarding or maintaining an exotic animal to fail to comply with the provisions of this Section, and/or for any person on the permittee’s premises to interfere with the enforcement or administration of this Section.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Cylon

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Eau Galle

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Emerald

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Erin Prairie

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Forest

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Glenwood

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Hammond

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Hudson

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Kinnickinnic

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Richmond

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Rush River

No regulation of exotic animals in Town’s Animal Control Ordinance.

No regulation of exotic animals in Town’s Animal Control Ordinance.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Somerset

ARTICLE V. – OTHER EXOTIC ANIMALS

Sec. 8-182 – Prohibited animals: Ownership of certain species.

Ownership or possession of the following exotic animals is prohibited in the town:

  1. Family Canidae, other than Canis familiaris (domestic dogs);
  2. Family Felidae, other than Felis catus (domestic cats);
  3. Family Ursidae (bears, including hybrids);
  4. Family Mustelidae (wolverines);
  5. Family Hyaenidae (hyenas);
  6. Order Primates (monkeys, apes, etc.);
  7. Order Proboscidae, Family Elephantidae (elephants);
  8. Order Perissodactyla, Family Rhinocerotidae (rhinoceroses);
  9. Order Artiodactyla, Family Suidae (warthogs) and Family Hippopotamidae (hippopotamuses);
  10. Order Crocodilia (crocodiles, alligators, and caimans);
  11. Venomous reptiles, including all members of the following families:
    1. Helodermidae (gila monsters and Mexican beaded lizards);
    2. Viperidae vipers;
    3. Crotalidae (pit vipers);
    4. Hydrophilidae (sea snakes);
    5. Elapidae (cobras, coral snakes, and related);
    6. Dispholidus typus (boomslang);
    7. Thebtornis kirtlandii (twig snake);
    8. Rhabdophis (keelbacks);
    9. Order Squamata, Family Boidae (Boa, Python and related); and
    10. Any rear-fanged snakes of the family Colubridae that are known to be life-threatening to humans, including, but not limited to, those specifically listed herein;
  12. Any species of the class Insecta (insects) considered life-threatening to humans in general;
  13. Any species of the class Arachnida (spiders, scorpions, and related) considered life-threatening to humans in general;
  14. Any species of the genera Catoprion, Pygocentrus, Pygopristis, Rooseveltiella, Serrasalmus, Serrasalmo, and Taddyella of the superorder Teleostei of the class Osteichthyes (piranhas).

Sec. 8-18 – Same-Removal or immediate seizure; penalties.

Unless otherwise specifically provided in chapter 24, anyone bringing into the town after the effective date of the ordinance from which this article is derived a prohibited exotic animal shall remove the exotic animal from the town within seven calendar days of the discovery of the exotic animal or face the possibility of immediate seizure of the prohibited exotic animal and a fine for each exotic animal of $1,000.00 plus $250.00 per day for each day the exotic animal is in the custody of the town, plus any additional costs to the town that may arise in connection with seizure of the exotic animal.

Sec. 8-184 – Exceptions.

This article does not apply to the following:

  1. Wildlife rehabilitators licensed by a state or federal agency;
  2. Veterinary clinics in possession of exotic animals for treatment or rehabilitation purposes;
  3. Nonresident circuses, carnivals or traveling fairs for no longer than one seven-day period, per each separate location where such circus is held within the town per calendar year;
  4. Persons temporarily transporting exotic animals through the town, provided that such transport time shall not exceed 24 hours.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Springfield

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of St. Joseph

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Stanton

Unavailable at time of publication.

Unavailable at time of publication.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Star Prairie

Sec. 7-1-9 – Keeping of exotic animals; protected animals, fowl, reptiles and insects.

  1. Intent.
    1. Purpose. It is the purpose and intent of the town in adopting this section to protect the public safety, health and general welfare from the safety and health risks that the unregulated keeping or harboring of exotic animals can pose to the community and to protect the health and welfare of permitted exotic animals held in private possession. By their very nature, exotic animals are wild and potentially dangerous, and, typically, do not adjust well to a captive environment. This section shall be liberally construed in favor of the town’s right and authority to protect the public health, safety and welfare.
    2. Prohibition. It shall be unlawful for any person to own, possess, maintain, harbor, bring into the town, have in one’s possession, act as a custodian for, or have custody or control on an exotic animal, except in compliance with this section.
  2. Definitions. The following definitions and terms shall be applicable in this section. Words used in the present tense include the future; the singular number includes the plural number; and the plural number includes the singular number. The word “shall” is mandatory and not permissive; the word “may” is nonmandatory and discretionary:
    1. Animal. For purposes of this section, shall mean exotic animals.
    2. Animal control officer. Law enforcement officers, building inspector, town chairperson, animal control officers, humane society employees, or any other person designated by the town to enforce or assist in the enforcement of this section.
    3. Animal shelter. Any premises designated or used by the town for the purpose of impounding and caring for animals found in violation of this section, or of any other town ordinance regulating the keeping of and care of animals. Included within this definition are animal shelters whose services are secured by the town through contract or intergovernmental agreement.
    4. At large. An animal is at large when:
      1. It is off the property of the owner and not properly confined or restrained in a manner such that the risk of uncontrolled or accidental contact by the animal with humans or domesticated animals has been minimized; or
      2. It is on the property of the owner, but is improperly restrained or confined so as to pose a risk of leaving the property and having uncontrolled or accidental contact by with humans or domesticated animals off of the owner’s property; or
      3. It is so improperly, inadequately or negligently restrained or confined on the owner’s property so to pose a risk of potentially dangerous contact with humans or domesticated animals which come on to the owner’s property.
    5. Enclosure or enclosure area. The indoor and/or outdoor area in which an animal is kept confined or restrained, including any structure(s) in which it is kept, confined or restrained.
    6. Exotic animal (including USDA dangerous animals). Any animal, fowl, insect, or reptile that is not normally domesticated in Wisconsin or is inherently wild by nature. Exotic animals include, but are not limited to, any or all of the following orders, families and/or species, whether bred in the wild or in captivity, and also hybrids with domestic species. The animals, fowl, insects, and reptiles listed in parentheses are intended to act as examples and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list nor to limit the generality of each group of animals, fowl, reptiles or insects:
      1. Non-human primates and prosimians*, including chimpanzees (Pan); monkeys (Cercopithecidae); gibbons (Hylobates); gorillas (Gorilla); orangutans (Pongo); siamangs (Symphalangus); and baboons (Papoi, Mandrillus).
      2. Canidae*, excluding non-hybrid domesticated dogs, including wolves (Canis lupus); coyotes (Canis latrans); and all foxes and jackals.
      3. Felidae*, excluding domesticated cats, including cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus); jaguars (Panthera onca); leopards (Panthera pardus); lions (Panthera leo); lynxes (Lynx); pumas (Felis concolor) which are also known as cougars, mountain lions or panthers; snow leopards (Panthera uncia); tigers (Panthera tigris); and ocelots.
      4. Ursidae*, including all bears.
      5. Crocodilians (Crocodilia) 30 inches in length or more, including alligators, caimans, and crocodiles.
      6. Proboscidea*, including elephants (Elephas and Loxodonta).
      7. Hyaenidea*, including all hyenas.
      8. Artiodactyla*, including hippopotami (Hippopotamidae) and giraffes (excluding camels, cattle, swine, sheep and goats).
      9. Procyonidae, including coatis (raccoons excluded).
      10. Marsupialia, including kangaroos (opossums excluded).
      11. Perissodactyla*, including rhinoceroses (Rhinocero tidae) and tapirs, excluding horses, donkeys and mules.
      12. Edentata, including anteaters, sloths and armadillos.
      13. Viverridae, including mongooses, civets and genets.
      14. Game cocks and other fighting birds.
      15. Varanidae, including only water monitors and crocodile monitors.
      16. Any other type of dangerous or carnivorous wild animal, fowl, or reptile.
        • Species listed on the United States Department of Agriculture’s dangerous species list.
    7. Humane Society. The Humane Society of St. Croix County or similar organization.
    8. Own/owner/owning. Any person, corporation, partnership, limited liability corporation, organization, association, joint venture, trust, or other legal entity who possesses, harbors, keeps, controls, boards, or has in his/her custody an exotic animal in the town, and any officer, member, shareholder, director, employee, agent or representative thereof. Any animal is being harbored if it is being fed and/or sheltered by such party.
    9. Section. The same meaning as “this ordinance.”
    10. Solid surface. A surface constructed of cement, concrete, metal, asphalt, fiberglass or similar such hard, impervious surface.
    11. Town. The Town of Star Prairie, St. Croix County, Wisconsin.
    12. Town board. The town board of the Town of Star Prairie, and authorized committees and subunits thereof.
  3. Compliance with federal regulations.
    1. Federal code requirements. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to buy, sell or offer for sale a native or foreign species or subspecies of mammal, bird, amphibian or reptile, or the dead body or parts thereof, which appears on the endangered species list designated by the United States Secretary of the Department of Interior and published in the Code of Federal Regulations pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1969 (Public Law 135, 91st Congress).
    2. Regulation of the importation of birds. No person, firm or corporation shall import or cause to be imported into this town any part of the plumage, skin or dead body of any species of hawk, owl or eagle. This subsection shall not be construed to forbid or restrict the importation or use of the plumage, skin, body or any part thereof legally collected for use by American Indian Nations for ceremonial purposes or in the preservation of their tribal customs and heritage.
  4. Exotic animal permit requirement; application for permit.
    1. Sale, importation, transfer, purchase and/or gifting of an exotic animal. It shall be unlawful for any person to:
      1. Import, transfer, sell, own, or purchase an exotic animal in the town without first obtaining a permit from the town board as prescribed by this section, unless exempt from such permit requirement.
      2. Sell, transfer, deliver, or give an exotic animal to any other person in the town without first obtaining a permit from the town board as prescribed by this section, unless exempt from such permit requirement.
    2. Permit for keeping, harboring, maintaining or controlling an exotic animal. It shall be unlawful for any person in the town to own, keep, maintain, harbor, board, or control an exotic animal without first obtaining a permit from the town board as prescribed by this section, unless exempt from such permit requirement.
    3. Exceptions to exotic animal permit requirement. The exotic animal permit requirements of this section shall not apply to:
      1. Institutions accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA).
      2. State licensed humane societies.
      3. Animal control or law enforcement officers acting in an official capacity.
      4. State licensed veterinary hospitals or clinics.
      5. Persons holding a scientific collectors permit issued by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
      6. Any person, company or organization presenting a transient or itinerant circus or carnival, or an agricultural fair (4-H, FFA), operating within the town ten days or less per year and holding all other required town, county and state permits and/or licenses.
      7. Wildlife rehabilitators licensed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources who temporarily keep, nurture, rehabilitate, and care for exotic animals which are injured or in need of rehabilitation, with the primary purpose of returning such animals to the wild. No animal may be kept under this exception for a period of more than 90 days. No animal may be kept under this exception that poses a danger to the community or domestic animals.
      8. State licensed or accredited research or medical institution.
      9. Any person temporarily transporting an exotic animal through the town if the transit time is not more than 24 hours and the animal is at all times maintained within a confinement sufficient to prevent the exotic animal from escaping.
    4. Application; required application information. An applicant for an exotic animal permit shall file an application with the town clerk-treasurer containing the following information:
      1. Basic application information. The applicant shall file the following information at the time of application filing:
        1. The name, address, and telephone number of the applicant.
        2. A description of each exotic animal the applicant possesses, or seeks to possess, including the scientific name, common name, sex, age, color, weight and any distinguishing marks or coloration that would aid in the identification of the animal.
        3. A photograph of each exotic animal.
        4. A description of the exact location and confinement facilities where the exotic animal will be kept.
        5. The names, addresses, and telephone number of the person from whom the applicant obtained the exotic animal, if known.
        6. The name and address of the veterinarian providing veterinary care to the exotic animal and a certificate of good health for the exotic animal from that veterinarian.
        7. A plan for the prompt and safe recapture of the exotic animal if the exotic animal escapes. Each applicant/permittee shall have a plan for the quick and safe recapture of the exotic animal if the animal escapes, and, if recapture is impossible, then a plan for the destruction of the exotic animal.
        8. In the case of exotic animals included on the United States Department of Agriculture’s dangerous animal list, proof of having obtained a minimum of one year’s, paid in full liability insurance in an amount not less than $2,000,000.00 for each occurrence for liability damages for destruction of or damage to property and death or bodily injury to a person caused by the exotic animal. Failure to at all times keep such liability insurance in full force and effect during the life of the permit shall immediately terminate the validity of such permit; it is the responsibility of the permittee to immediately notify the town clerk-treasurer, in writing, of any changes in his/her insurance status, validity or carrier. The town shall be listed as a co-insured solely for the purpose of notice of cancellation of such insurance policy.
        9. Copies of all United States Department of Agriculture, United States Department of Interior, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and any other state or federal permits/licenses issued to the applicant approving of or governing the applicant’s possession of the species for which a town exotic animal permit is being sought.
        10. Exotic animal permit application fee in the amount per animal prescribed by section 1-3-1.
        11. Any other information required by town authorities to properly consider the application.
      2. Certified information. The applicant shall certify in writing that:
        1. The applicant is 18 years of age or older.
        2. The applicant has not been convicted of or found responsible for violating a local or state law prohibiting cruelty, neglect, or mistreatment of animals or has not within the last ten years been convicted for possession, sale or use of illegal narcotics or controlled substances.
        3. The facility and the conditions in which the exotic animal will be kept are in compliance with this section and all other applicable state and local regulations.
        4. The applicant has regularly provided veterinary care to the exotic animal when needed and will provide such care in the future.
        5. Proof that a licensed veterinarian has spayed or neutered the exotic animal.
  5. Review of exotic animal permit application; issuance; conditions of permit issuance; renewals.
    1. Consideration of application. Upon receipt of the application, application fee and all of the information required by subsection (d)(4) above, the town clerk-treasurer shall schedule consideration of the application before the town board, duly noticing the consideration of the application on the notice/agenda for such meeting in compliance with the Wisconsin Open Meeting Law. All neighboring property owners and residents located within 300 feet of the applicant’s property shall receive written notice of the meeting at which the application is to be considered by the town board a minimum of seven days prior to the meeting date.
    2. Town board action. Upon consideration of the application, the town board may issue an exotic animal permit if the board is satisfied that:
      1. All of the application and insurance requirements required by subsections (d)(4) and (e)(4) have been fully satisfied;
      2. The applicant has provided credentials, satisfactory to the town board, establishing that the applicant/owner is properly trained to handle, care for, restrain, and recapture the type of animal for which the permit application is being made;
      3. The applicant has provided either application information or oral testimony at the application review meeting demonstrating ownership of, and training and proficiency with, tranquilizing and restraint equipment that is species-appropriate, to the satisfaction of the town board, and shall demonstrate adequate training and certification in first aid and CPR;
      4. The exotic animal and the manner in which it will be kept will be fully in compliance with the requirements of this section and that the animal will be kept in such manner so as not pose a threat to public safety and health;
      5. The applicant has demonstrated that the animal will be kept in a humane manner consistent with this section and all other applicable federal and state standards; and
      6. The site is properly zoned for such use and no person resides within 100 feet of the quarters in which animals are proposed to be kept.
    3. Validity.
      1. A copy of the exotic animal permit shall be displayed, in plain view, on or reasonably near the animal’s confinement area.
      2. An exotic animal permit is not transferable without re-application under this section.
      3. Permits for each exotic animal shall be valid for one year. The permit year shall commence on January 1 or as soon thereafter as officially issued and expire on December 31 of that year.
      4. In addition to the application fee under subsection (d)(4), the fee for an annual exotic animal permit, or renewal thereof, shall be as prescribed in Sec. 1-3-1 for each exotic animal.
    4. Permit renewal; issuance criteria.
      1. Exotic animal permit renewal applications shall be submitted to the town clerk-treasurer on or before November 15 of the permit year.
      2. Along with each permit renewal application, the applicant shall submit the required renewal fee, a current certificate of good health for the animal(s), update in full all information required for the original permit, and provide proof of the required continued paid-up liability insurance [such proof of insurance shall be no more than 30 days old.]
      3. The town board shall consider renewals in the same manner as with the issuance of original permits.
      4. The town board shall not issue or renew a permit if it determines that:
        1. The applicant has been convicted of cruelty to animals within the previous ten years;
        2. The applicant has failed to provide, withheld or falsified any required permit application or renewal information; or
        3. The applicant is, or has been, unable to comply with the requirements necessary to obtain a permit or has failed to comply with the provisions of this section at any time during the permit year.
    5. Permit revocation. The town board may revoke a permit for violation of this section after giving written notice of the reasons for revocation to the permit holder. The town shall give the permittee notice, by certified mail with receipt requested, of intent to consider revocation of the exotic animal permit. The town shall give the permittee an opportunity to respond to the notice and address the issues identified at an open, noticed town board meeting, after which the town board shall make its determination, with the reasons therefor included in the record of the board’s meeting.
    6. Permit transfer. If an owner can no longer properly care for his/her exotic animal, that person may only transfer his/her exotic animal to another person who has been issued a valid exotic animal permit by the town board. An owner/permittee shall notify the town clerk-treasurer of any changes central to the validity of the permit, including the death of the exotic animal.
  6. Confinement standards for exotic animals.
    1. Prohibited confinement. An exotic animal shall not be tethered, leashed, chained outdoors, or allowed to run at large.
    2. Confinement standards.
      1. All exotic animals governed by this section shall be confined in a building or secure enclosure that has a floor, a secure roof and sides, constructed and maintained so as to securely confine the animal and provide sufficient space to allow each animal adequate freedom of movement. Inadequate space may be indicated by evidence of animal debilitation, stress, abnormal behavior patterns, or the professional opinion of a veterinarian, a qualified animal trainer, or experts from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), United States Department of Interior, or Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
      2. For each exotic animal, the permittee shall comply with the AZA’s “Minimum Guidelines” for animal care and maintenance or the USDA’s standards for the humane handling, care and treatment of exotic animals (9 CFR Subchapter A (Animal Welfare, Part 3)), whichever is more restrictive. These standards shall provide the basis against which to assess the sufficiency of space or facility for animals for which a permit is sought or held.
      3. The town recognizes that exotic animals typically require extra care in the provision of confinement and care due to the climate and conditions of their original place of origin.
    3. Minimum outdoor area standards. The outdoor area of an exotic animal’s enclosure shall, at a minimum:
      1. Have two sets of wire enclosures with a minimum of four inches separation between them;
      2. Have the sides of the wire enclosure extend downward and be buried a minimum of 12 inches below ground;
      3. Incorporate a roof design with independent fencing separate from and located between the roof and floor of the enclosure so as to prevent escape in the event high winds damage the roof over the enclosure;
      4. Have a floor with a minimum six inch perimeter of breaker rock-grade aggregate around the borders of the enclosed area and a minimum five inch uniform depth of class five gravel for the floor, or a floor with a minimum four inch uniform depth of concrete or asphalt over the remainder of the enclosure floor;
      5. Be provided with shelter that allows the exotic animal, if kept outdoors, to remain dry and warm during snow/sleet/rain;
      6. In the alternative, present to and secure approval from the town board for an alternative outdoor confinement system that substantially complies with the safeguards of this section.
      7. In addition to the structural requirements of the exotic animal’s outdoor enclosure, the permittee shall:
        1. Ensure that the outdoor area is maintained in a safe and healthful manner;
        2. Keep the outdoor area free of standing water, accumulated waste, and debris;
        3. Ensure that sufficient shade, by natural or artificial means, is available when the animal is outdoors; and
        4. Maintain the structural soundness of the outdoor structure in good repair to protect the exotic animals from injury and to prevent escape.
    4. Minimum indoor area standards. The indoor area of an exotic animal’s enclosure shall:
      1. Be an insulated, moisture-proof and windproof structure of adequate area to accommodate the need of the animal for adequate freedom of movement;
      2. Contain a solid floor of no less than four inches thick to prevent the animal from escaping;
      3. Incorporate a roof design with independent fencing separate from and located between the roof and floor of the enclosure so as to prevent escape in the event high winds blow off the roof over the enclosure;
      4. Locate the entrance to the building in which the animal is housed facing away from prevailing winds; and
      5. Have a self-closing door over the human and animal entryway during the winter months to protect the animal from cold temperatures.
      6. In addition to the structural requirements of the animal’s indoor enclosure area, the owner of an animal shall:
        1. Ensure that the indoor enclosure area remains at an ambient temperature that will maintain the good health of the exotic animal;
        2. Provide proper ventilation of the indoor structure by natural or mechanical means to provide fresh air for the animal and to prevent moisture condensation;
        3. Ensure that the animal has natural or artificial lighting and adequate heat and ventilation to properly provide for the health of the animal at all times;
        4. Ensure that the animal has proper bedding in sufficient quantity for insulation against the cold and dampness and that is changed regularly; and
        5. Maintain the indoor enclosure area in good repair to protect the animal from injury and to prevent escape.
  7. Notification signs. All owners/permittees of an exotic animal(s) shall have continuously posted and displayed at each normal entrance onto the premises where an exotic animal is kept a conspicuous sign, clearly visible, and easily readable by the public, warning that there is an exotic animal on the premises. At least one such sign shall be located within 20 feet of the animal’s confinement area using the words “BEWARE OF _______,” with the last word to indicate the type of exotic animal that is being confined. In addition, the permittee shall conspicuously display a sign with a warning symbol that adequately informs children of the presence of an exotic animal.
  8. Escape and liability for escape.
    1. Notification of escape.
      1. An owner/permittee shall immediately notify the town chairperson, local humane society, the town’s animal control officer and the county sheriff’s department of the escape of any exotic animal for which a permit is required.
      2. No person may intentionally release an exotic animal. If an exotic animal is released by any party, authorized or unauthorized, the owner/permittee is liable for all expenses associated with efforts to recapture the animal, and may, in addition, be subject to a forfeiture.
    2. Liability.
      1. The owner/permittee shall be liable for all costs incurred by any public authority or their agents and resulting from the escape of any animal for which a permit is required, including boarding, placement, veterinarian and legal fees.
      2. Neither the town or any agent of the town shall be liable for the loss, death, injury or destruction of any animal for which a permit is required, nor shall the town be liable for any injury or damage caused by any animal for which a permit is required and issued under this section.
  9. Inspection. The owner/permittee of an exotic animal, at all reasonable times, shall allow designated inspectors of the town, humane officers and law enforcement authorities to enter the premises where the animal is kept to ensure compliance with this section as a condition of permit issuance. Town representatives shall conduct a minimum of three periodic, unannounced inspections of the outdoor and indoor enclosure areas per 12-month period for USDA-designated dangerous exotic animals, and a minimum of one such unannounced inspection per 12-month period for non-dangerous exotic animals, to ensure that said areas are being maintained in the manner required by this section.
  10. Restraint and impoundment.
    1. Animals at large may be impounded.
      1. All exotic animals shall be kept confined or under proper restraint by their owners as provided herein and shall not be permitted to run at large. Unrestrained exotic animals and animals running at large may be taken into custody in accordance with Wis. Stats. ch. 173, and impounded at any facility deemed appropriate for the protection of the public and with facilities and equipment that permit the facility to adequately care for the animal. Such animals shall be considered to be abandoned.
      2. Law enforcement authorities, designees of the town board, humane officers or law enforcement officers, upon receipt of information indicating probable cause of a violation of this section, may in his/her discretion, and after investigation, seize and impound an animal in emergency situations or where previous written notice has failed to produce compliance and when otherwise authorized by law.
    2. Failure to reclaim; costs.
      1. If an owner fails to reclaim an exotic animal within seven days of taking the animal into custody, the town board shall consider the animal to be unclaimed, as authorized by Wis. Stats. § 173.23(1m), and shall take such steps as authorized by law. The town may contact the American Zoo and Aquarium Association for further assistance.
      2. The animal’s owner is liable for the costs of capture, care and placement for the exotic animal from the time of confiscation until the time of return to the owner, until the animal is disposed of, or until the time the animal has been relocated to an approved facility, such as a proper wildlife sanctuary.
      3. If an exotic animal is confiscated due to the animal being kept in contravention of this section, the animal’s owner is required to post a security bond or cash deposit with the town and/or animal control authority in an amount sufficient to guarantee payment of all reasonable costs expected to be incurred in caring and providing for the animal, including, but not limited to, the estimated cost of feeding, medical care, and housing for at least 30 days. The posting of the bond or cash deposit shall not prevent the town or animal control authority from disposing of the animal as permitted by law at the end of the 30 days.
      4. An exotic animal may be returned to its owner only if, to the satisfaction of the town board, the possessor has a valid town exotic animal permit, has corrected the conditions resulting in the confiscation, and has paid in full the cost of placement and care of the animal while under the care and control of the town or humane society.
      5. If the owner of a confiscated exotic animal cannot be located or if a confiscated animal remains unclaimed, the town or humane society may, at its discretion, contact an approved facility, such as an institution accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA), allow the animal to be adopted by a party who can satisfy the permit requirements of this section, or may euthanize the animal as permitted by law.
      6. If an escaped exotic animal cannot be recaptured safely and is posing a threat to public health and safety, authorities may euthanize the animal as permitted by law.
  11. Animal care.
    1. Food and water. No owner shall fail to provide an exotic animal in his/her care with sufficient food, potable water, or shelter when needed.
    2. Humane treatment. No person shall ill-treat, beat, torment or otherwise abuse an exotic animal.
  12. Incidents causing injury.
    1. Notification. All incidents in the town in which an exotic animal injures or is suspected of injuring any person or domesticated animal shall be reported by the permittee to the town chairperson or town clerk-treasurer within two hours of the incident.
    2. Liability. The owner of an exotic animal shall be responsible for all expenses incurred as a result of an injury inflicted or suffered by an exotic animal, whether expenses are incurred by the family of the victim, the victim, the town or on behalf of the animal involved.
  13. Sanitation.
    1. Fecal matter; odor. Any person who owns, harbors, keeps, or controls an exotic animal shall be responsible for keeping his/her property properly clean of fecal matter and to keep obnoxious odors under control.
    2. Waste disposal. Disposal of all animal waste shall be in a manner that is consistent with normal agricultural practices and adequately protects human and animal health.
  14. Limitation on exotic animal numbers. No person shall own, harbor or keep in his/her possession on any one parcel of property more than two exotic animals over five months of age at any one time, nor shall any person retain a litter/offspring, or portion thereof, of exotic animals longer than five months following birth.
  15. Compliance; enforcement.
    1. Transition period.
      1. As a measure deemed necessary by the town board to protect the public safety, health and welfare, this section shall apply to owners of exotic animals in the town and who possess, harbor, board or keep an exotic animal(s) on the effective date of this section.
      2. All such existing exotic animal owners shall file with the town clerk-treasurer the location, species, gender and age of each such exotic animal within 30 days of the effective date of this section.
      3. All such existing exotic animal owners shall comply with this section, including applying for an exotic animal permit, within 90 days of the effective date of this section.
      4. An exotic animal permit may be issued by the town board under the standards and procedures of this section. Failure to apply for, and be granted, an exotic animal permit shall result in the animal being removed from its owner by the Town, or its designees, within six months of the effective date of this section.
    2. Enforcement. The town chairperson, with the assistance of the humane society and other law enforcement authorities, and such veterinarian assistance as may be needed shall be primarily responsible for the enforcement of this section. The town board may appoint additional persons as may be necessary to assist with the enforcement of this section.
  16. Wolf/dog hybrid regulation and confinement. The provisions of this subsection address the unique public health and safety concerns involved with the keeping of wolf/dog hybrids:
    1. Definitions. A “wolf/dog hybrid” is defined as any cross-breed resulting from the mating of a domesticated dog and a wolf, coyote jackal or dingo or resulting from the mating of any wolf/dog hybrid and another wolf/dog hybrid or a domesticated dog. As used herein:
      1. Canine animal. Includes all members of the family Canidae except foxes.
      2. Domesticated dog. Canis familiaris.
      3. Wolf. Includes both Canis lupus and Canis niger.
      4. Coyote. Canis latrans.
      5. Jackal. Canis aurens.
      6. Dingo. Canis dingo.
    2. Prohibition on unregistered animals. No person shall harbor, keep or maintain within the town any wolf/dog hybrid which has not been registered pursuant to subsection (p)(11) below on or before January 30, 2014. This prohibition shall not apply to animals being transported through the limits of the town within a one-hour period of time. A pup born to a female wolf/dog hybrid so registered shall be removed from the town before it has reached the age of five months. Wolf/dog hybrids permitted in the town shall be confined as set forth in this subsection.
    3. Removal; impoundment. Whenever any person is charged with harboring, keeping or maintaining a wolf/dog hybrid in the town which has not been registered on or before January 30, 2014, that person shall remove said animal from the town until a trial on the citation. If said animal has not been so removed within 48 hours of the service of the citation, the said animal may be impounded as directed by the town board until the trial on the citation. In that case, the owner of any such animal shall pay all expenses incurred due to such impoundment, including but not limited to the cost of shelter, food, handling and veterinary care. If it is determined by plea or trial that said animal is a wolf/dog hybrid not registered pursuant to subsection (p)(11) on or before January 30, 2007, it shall be removed from and not returned to the town.
    4. Confinement requirements. The owner of any wolf/dog hybrid permitted to be kept in the town, and the owner of any property on which such wolf/dog hybrid is kept, shall see that the animal is at all times confined according to the minimum requirements of this subsection. A wolf/dog hybrid may be kept only in enclosures that meet the following minimum requirements:
      1. The first enclosure shall be constructed of not less than nine-gauge galvanized chain link fencing, with mesh openings not greater than two inches, which shall be securely anchored by stainless steel or copper rings, placed at intervals not greater than six inches apart, to a poured concrete base as described herein. Such enclosure shall be not less than 500 square feet in area, plus 250 square feet for each additional canine animal kept therein. Such enclosure shall be the location in which any wolf/dog hybrid is primarily kept.
      2. The first enclosure shall extend to a height of not less than eight feet, and shall be surrounded from ground level to a height of not less than four feet by 1/4-inch galvanized mesh screening.
      3. The first enclosure shall have a full top, which shall also be constructed of not less than nine-gauge chain link fencing with mesh openings not greater than two inches, and which shall be securely anchored to the sides of the enclosure. The entire base of the first enclosure shall be a poured concrete slab floor at least four inches thick.
      4. The second enclosure shall consist of a securely anchored fence at least eight feet in height, which shall entirely surround the first enclosure, and no part of which shall be neared than eight feet in height, which shall entirely surround the first enclosure, and no part of which shall be nearer than six feet from any part of the first enclosure. Said fence shall be a “vision barrier” fence, no more than five percent open for through vision, except, however, that the portion of said fence facing the dwelling of the owner of said animals or of the property on which they are kept shall be constructed of not less than nine-gauge chain link fencing, to provide for observation of said animals. If any portion of said fence is made of wood, the finished or painted side thereof shall face outward from the first enclosure.
      5. Both enclosures shall be kept locked with case hardened locks at all times when an animal is unattended by an adult. The first (innermost) enclosure shall have double entrance gates or doors situated and constructed in such a fashion as to prevent an animal from escaping past an open gate or door. The gates or doors providing access to the first (innermost) enclosure shall be spring-loaded, so as to shut on their own accord behind anyone entering that enclosure.
      6. Within the first enclosure, shelter shall be provided adequate to protect the animals confined against weather extremes. The first enclosure shall be regularly cleaned to remove excreta and other waste materials, dirt and trash, in a manner adequate to minimize health hazards and avoid offensive odors.
      7. The above described enclosures shall be located in the rear yard of any property on which a wolf/dog hybrid is kept, as defined in the applicable zoning code.
    5. Transportation and muzzling of animals. A wolf/dog hybrid may be transported only if confined in a secure, locked container, covered with 1/4-inch galvanized fine mesh screen. This paragraph shall not prohibit the walking of such animals, provided they are muzzled and restrained by a leather lead, at least one inch in diameter and not exceeding three feet in length, attached to a metal choker-type collar, under the control of an adult. The muzzle must be made in a manner that will not cause injury to the wolf/dog hybrid or unduly interfere with its vision or respiration, but will prevent it from biting any person or animal.
    6. Right of inspection. To insure compliance with this subsection, any person possessing any registration papers, certificate, advertisement or other written evidence relating to the bloodlines or ownership of a canine animal found within the town shall produce the same for inspection on demand of any law enforcement, conservation, animal control, or public health officer or court.
    7. Limitation on numbers. No person shall own, harbor or keep in his/her possession on any one parcel of property more than two wolf/dog hybrids over five months of age at any one time, nor shall any person retain a litter or portion of a litter of wolf/dog hybrids longer than five months.
    8. Veterinary exception. The foregoing provisions of this subsection shall not apply to doctors of veterinary medicine in temporary possession of wolf/dog hybrids in the ordinary course of their practice.
    9. Abandonment or negligent release. No person shall willfully or negligently release or abandon a wolf/dog hybrid as defined herein within the town.
    10. Nonconforming enclosures. As to any person keeping wolf/dog hybrids in existing enclosures in the town on the date of passage of this section, subsection (p)(4) shall take effect on January 30, 2014; for all other persons, said subsection shall take effect and be in force from and after passage and publication as provided by law. The remaining provisions of this subsection shall take effect and be in force from and after passage and publication as provided by law.
    11. Wolf/dog hybrid registration. All owners of any wolf/dog hybrid in the town shall, on or before January 30, 2014, and annually thereafter on or before January 30 of each year, register such animal and provide a current color photograph of such animal with the town clerk-treasurer’s office and pay an annual registration fee as prescribed in section 1-3-1. At the time of registration, each owner of any wolf/dog hybrid kept within the town limits shall provide to the town clerk-treasurer proof of liability insurance in the amount of at least $1,000,000.00 for any acts of property damage, personal injury or other liability incurred by virtue of any injury or damage inflicted by such wolf/dog hybrid. Such insurance shall name the town as a named co-insured solely for the purpose of notice of cancellation of such insurance policy.
    12. Warning sign. The owner or keeper of a wolf/dog hybrid shall display on the premises on which such animal is kept signs warning that there is a wolf/dog hybrid on the property as provided herein. Such signs shall be visible and capable of being read within at least 20 feet of their placement, but shall not be more than two square feet in area, and shall state in bold, capital letters, on a white background, the following: “WARNING — WOLF/DOG HYBRIDS PRESENT“. One such sign shall be placed in the front yard of any property on which any wolf/dog hybrid is kept, and additional such signs shall be placed on all gates or doors providing access through the second (outermost) enclosure required above.
  17. Penalties. The following penalties shall apply to all violations of this section, including subsection (p) governing wolf/dog hybrids:
    1. Forfeiture. Any person who fails to comply with the provisions of this section shall, upon adjudication of the violation, be subject to a forfeiture of not less than $100.00 or more than $500.00 per violation, plus the costs of prosecution and any assessments and expenses related to enforcement authorized elsewhere in this section. Each day of violation shall constitute a separate offense. This penalty is in addition to any other remedies for non-compliance set forth elsewhere in this section.
    2. Interference with enforcement. It is unlawful for a permittee/owner or any other person harboring, keeping, boarding or maintaining an exotic animal to fail to comply with the provisions of this section, and/or for any person on the permittee’s premises to interfere with the enforcement or administration of this section.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Troy

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

No mention of exotic animals in Town Ordinances.

Last modified: 2024-06-01

Town of Warren

Sec. 7-1-9 Keeping Of Exotic Animals; Protected Animals, Fowl, Reptiles and Insects.

  1. Intent.
    1. Purpose. It is the purpose and intent of the Town of Warren in adopting this Section to protect the public safety, health and general welfare from the safety and health risks that the unregulated keeping or harboring of exotic animals can pose to the community and to protect the health and welfare of permitted exotic animals held in private possession. By their very nature, exotic animals are wild and potentially dangerous, and, typically, do not adjust well to a captive environment. This Section shall be liberally construed in favor of the Town’s right and authority to protect the public health, safety and welfare.
    2. Prohibition. It shall be unlawful for any person to own, possess, maintain, harbor, bring into the Town, have in one’s possession, act as a custodian for, or have custody or control on an exotic animal, except in compliance with this Section.
  2. Definitions. The following definitions and terms shall be applicable in this Section. Words used in the present tense include the future; the singular number includes the plural number; and the plural number includes the singular number. The word “shall” is mandatory and not permissive; the word “may” is nonmandatory and discretionary:
    1. Animal. For purposes of this Section, shall mean exotic animals.
    2. Animal Control Officer. Law enforcement officers, Building Inspector, Town Chairperson, animal control officers, humane society employees, or any other person designated by the Town of Warren to enforce or assist in the enforcement of this Section.
    3. Animal Shelter. Any premises designated or used by the Town for the purpose of impounding and caring for animals found in violation of this Section, or of any other Town ordinance regulating the keeping of and care of animals. Included within this definition are animal shelters whose services are secured by the Town through contract or intergovernmental agreement.
    4. At Large. An animal is at large when:
      1. It is off the property of the owner and not properly confined or restrained in a manner such that the risk of uncontrolled or accidental contact by the animal with humans or domesticated animals has been minimized; or
      2. It is on the property of the owner, but is improperly restrained or confined so as to pose a risk of leaving the property and having uncontrolled or accidental contact by with humans or domesticated animals off of the owner’s property; or
      3. It is so improperly, inadequately or negligently restrained or confined on the owner’s property so to pose a risk of potentially dangerous contact with humans or domesticated animals which come on to the owner’s property.
    5. Enclosure or Enclosure Area. The indoor and/or outdoor area in which an animal is kept confined or restrained, including any structure(s) in which it is kept, confined or restrained.
    6. Exotic Animal (including USDA Dangerous Animals). Any animal, fowl, insect, or reptile that is not normally domesticated in Wisconsin or is inherently wild by nature. Exotic animals include, but are not limited to, any or all of the following orders, families and/or species, whether bred in the wild or in captivity, and also hybrids with domestic species. The animals, fowl, insects, and reptiles listed in parentheses are intended to act as examples and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list nor to limit the generality of each group of animals, fowl, reptiles or insects:
      1. Non-human primates and prosimians*, including chimpanzees (Pan); monkeys (Cercopithecidae); gibbons (Hylobates); gorillas (Gorilla); orangutans (Pongo); ans siamangs (Symphalangus); and baboons (Papoi, Mandrillus).
      2. Canidae*, excluding non-hybrid domesticated dogs, including wolves (Canis lupus); coyotes (Canis latrans); and all foxes and jackals.
      3. Felidae*, excluding domesticated cats, including cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus); jaguars (Panthera onca); leopards (Panthera pardus); lions (Panthera leo); lynxes (Lynx); pumas (Felis concolor) which are also known as cougars, mountain lions or panthers; snow leopards (Panthera uncia); tigers (Panthera tigris); and ocelots.
      4. Ursidae*, including all bears.
      5. Crocodilians (Crocodilia) thirty (30) inches in length or more, including alligators, caimans, and crocodiles.
      6. Proboscidea*, including elephants (Elephas and Loxodonta).
      7. Hyaenidea*, including all hyenas.
      8. Artiodactyla*, including hippopotami (Hippopotamidae) and giraffes (excluding camels, cattle, swine, sheep and goats).
      9. Procyonidae, including coatis (raccoons excluded).
      10. Marsupialia, including kangaroos (opossums excluded).
      11. Perissodactyla*, including rhinoceroses (Rhinocero tidae) and tapirs, excluding horses, donkeys and mules.
      12. Edentata, including anteaters, sloths and armadillios.
      13. Viverridae, including mongooses, civets and genets.
      14. Game cocks and other fighting birds.
      15. Varanidae, including only water monitors and crocodile monitors.
      16. Any other type of dangerous or carnivorous wild animal, fowl, or reptile.
        • Species listed on the United States Department of Agriculture’s dangerous species list.
    7. Humane Society. The Humane Society of Pierce/St. Croix, Inc.
    8. Own/Owner/Owning. Any person, corporation, partnership, limited liability corporation, organization, association, joint venture, trust, or other legal entity who possesses, harbors, keeps, controls, boards, or has in his/her custody an exotic animal in the Town, and any officer, member, shareholder, director, employee, agent or representative thereof. Any animal is being harbored if it is being fed and/or sheltered by such party.
    9. Section. The same meaning as “this Ordinance.”
    10. Solid Surface. A surface constructed of cement, concrete, metal, asphalt, fiberglass or similar such hard, impervious surface.
    11. Town. The Town of Warren.
    12. Town Board. The Town Board of the Town of Warren, and authorized committees and subunits thereof.
  3. Compliance with Federal Regulations.
    1. Federal Code Requirements. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to buy, sell or offer for sale a native or foreign species or subspecies of mammal, bird, amphibian or reptile, or the dead body or parts thereof, which appears on the endangered species list designated by the United States Secretary of the Department of Interior and published in the Code of Federal Regulations pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1969 (Public Law 135, 91st Congress).
    2. Regulation of the Importation of Birds. No person, firm or corporation shall import or cause to be imported into this Town any part of the plumage, skin or dead body of any species of hawk, owl or eagle. This Subsection shall not be construed to forbid or restrict the importation or use of the plumage, skin, body or any part thereof legally collected for use by American Indian Nations for ceremonial purposes or in the preservation of their tribal customs and heritage.
  4. Exotic Animal Permit Requirement – Application for Permit.
    1. Sale, Importation, Transfer, Purchase and/or Gifting of an Exotic Animal. It shall be unlawful for any person to:
      1. Import, transfer, sell, own, or purchase an exotic animal in the Town without first obtaining a permit from the Town Board as prescribed by this Section, unless exempt from such permit requirement.
      2. Sell, transfer, deliver, or give an exotic animal to any other person in the Town without first obtaining a permit from the Town Board as prescribed by this Section, unless exempt from such permit requirement.
    2. Keeping, Harboring, Maintaining or Controlling an Exotic Animal. It shall be unlawful for any person in the Town to own, keep, maintain, harbor, board, or control an exotic animal without first obtaining a permit from the Town Board as prescribed by this Section, unless exempt from such permit requirement.
    3. Exceptions to Exotic Animal Permit Requirement. The exotic animal permit requirements of this Section shall not apply to:
      1. Institutions accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA).
      2. State licensed humane societies.
      3. Animal control or law enforcement officers acting in an official capacity.
      4. State licensed veterinary hospitals or clinics.
      5. Persons holding a Scientific Collectors Permit issued by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
      6. Any person, company or organization presenting a transient or itinerant circus or carnival operating within the Town ten (10) days or less per year and holding all other required Town, county and state permits and/or licenses.
      7. Wildlife rehabilitators licensed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources who temporarily keep, nurture, rehabilitate, and care for exotic animals which are injured or in need of rehabilitation, with the primary purpose of returning such animals to the wild. No animal may be kept under this exception for a period of more than ninety (90) days. No animal may be kept under this exception that poses a danger to the community or domestic animals.
      8. State licensed or accredited research or medical institution.
      9. Any person temporarily transporting an exotic animal through the Town if the transit time is not more than twenty-four (24) hours and the animal is at all times maintained within a confinement sufficient to prevent the exotic animal from escaping.
    4. Application; Required Application Information. An applicant for an exotic animal permit shall file an application with the Town Clerk-Treasurer containing the following information:
      1. Basic Application Information. The applicant shall file the following information at the time of application filing:
        1. The name, address, and telephone number of the applicant.
        2. A description of each exotic animal the applicant possesses, or seeks to possess, including the scientific name, common name, sex, age, color, weight and any distinguishing marks or coloration that would aid in the identification of the animal.
        3. A photograph of each exotic animal.
        4. A description of the exact location and confinement facilities where the exotic animal will be kept.
        5. The names, addresses, and telephone number of the person from whom the applicant obtained the exotic animal, if known.
        6. The name and address of the veterinarian providing veterinary care to the exotic animal and a certificate of good health for the exotic animal from that veterinarian.
        7. A plan for the prompt and safe recapture of the exotic animal if the exotic animal escapes. Each applicant/permittee shall have a plan for the quick and safe recapture of the exotic animal if the animal escapes, and, if recapture is impossible, then a plan for the destruction of the exotic animal.
        8. In the case of exotic animals included on the United States Department of Agriculture’s dangerous animal list, proof of having obtained a minimum of one year’s, paid in full liability insurance in an amount not less than Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000) for each occurrence for liability damages for destruction of or damage to property and death or bodily injury to a person caused by the exotic animal. [Failure to at all times keep such liability insurance in full force and effect during the life of the permit shall immediately terminate the validity of such permit; it is the responsibility of the permittee to immediately notify the Town Clerk-Treasurer, in writing, of any changes in his/her insurance status, validity or carrier]. The Town of Warren shall be listed as a co-insured solely for the purpose of notice of cancellation of such insurance policy.
        9. Copies of all United States Department of Agriculture, United States Department of Interior, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and any other state or federal permits/ licenses issued to the applicant approving of or governing the applicant’s possession of the species for which a Town exotic animal permit is being sought.
        10. Exotic animal permit application fee in the amount per animal as prescribed in Section 1-3-1.
        11. Any other information required by Town authorities to properly consider the application.
      2. Certified Information. The applicant shall certify in writing that:
        1. The applicant is eighteen (18) years of age or older.
        2. The applicant has not been convicted of or found responsible for violating a local or state law prohibiting cruelty, neglect, or mistreatment of animals or has not within the last ten (10) years been convicted for possession, sale or use of illegal narcotics or controlled substances.
        3. The facility and the conditions in which the exotic animal will be kept are in compliance with this Section and all other applicable state and local regulations.
        4. The applicant has regularly provided veterinary care to the exotic animal when needed and will provide such care in the future.
        5. Proof that a licensed veterinarian has spayed or neutered the exotic animal.
  5. Review of Exotic Animal Permit Application; Issuance; Conditions of Permit Issuance; Renewals.
    1. Consideration of Application. Upon receipt of the application, application fee and all of the information required by Subsection (d)(4) above, the Town Clerk-Treasurer shall schedule consideration of the application before the Town Board, duly noticing the consideration of the application on the notice/agenda for such meeting in compliance with the Wisconsin Open Meeting Law. All neighboring property owners and residents located within three hundred (300) feet of the applicant’s property shall receive written notice of the meeting at which the application is to be considered by the Town Board a minimum of seven (7) days prior to the meeting date.
    2. Town Board Action. Upon consideration of the application, the Town Board may issue an exotic animal permit if the Board is satisfied that:
      1. All of the application and insurance requirements required by Subsections (d)(4) and (e)(4) have been fully satisfied;
      2. The applicant has provided credentials, satisfactory to the Town Board, establishing that the applicant/owner is properly trained to handle, care for, restrain, and recapture the type of animal for which the permit application is being made;
      3. The applicant has provided either application information or oral testimony at the application review meeting demonstrating ownership of, and training and proficiency with, tranquilizing and restraint equipment that is species-appropriate, to the satisfaction of the Town Board, and shall demonstrate adequate training and certification in first aid and CPR;
      4. The exotic animal and the manner in which it will be kept will be fully in compliance with the requirements of this Section and that the animal will be kept in such manner so as not pose a threat to public safety and health;
      5. The applicant has demonstrated that the animal will be kept in a humane manner consistent with this Section and all other applicable federal and state standards; and
      6. The site is properly zoned for such use.
    3. Validity.
      1. A copy of the exotic animal permit shall be displayed, in plain view, on or reasonably near the animal’s confinement area.
      2. An exotic animal permit is not transferable without re-application under this Section.
      3. Permits for each exotic animal shall be valid for one (1) year. The permit year shall commence on January 1 or as soon thereafter as officially issued and expire on December 31 of that year.
      4. In addition to the application fee under Subsection (d)(4), the fee for an annual exotic animal permit, or renewal thereof, shall be Thirty-five Dollars ($35.00) for each exotic animal.
    4. Permit Renewal; Issuance Criteria.
      1. Exotic animal permit renewal applications shall be submitted to the Town Clerk- Treasurer on or before November 15 of the permit year.
      2. Along with each permit renewal application, the applicant shall submit the required renewal fee, a current certificate of good health for the animal(s), update in full all information required for the original permit, and provide proof of the required continued paid-up liability insurance [such proof of insurance shall be no more than thirty (30) days old.]
      3. The Town Board shall consider renewals in the same manner as with the issuance of original permits. The Town Board shall not issue or renew a permit if it determines that:
        1. The applicant has been convicted of cruelty to animals within the previous ten (10) years;
        2. The applicant has failed to provide, withheld or falsified any required permit application or renewal information; or
        3. The applicant is, or has been, unable to comply with the requirements necessary to obtain a permit or has failed to comply with the provisions of this Section at any time during the permit year.
    5. Permit Revocation. The Town Board may revoke a permit for violation of this Section after giving written notice of the reasons for revocation to the permit holder. The Town shall give the permittee notice, by certified mail with receipt requested, of intent to consider revocation of the exotic animal permit. The Town shall give the permittee an opportunity to respond to the notice and address the issues identified at an open, noticed Town Board meeting, after which the Town Board shall make its determination, with the reasons therefor included in the record of the Board’s meeting.
    6. Permit Transfer. If an owner can no longer properly care for his/her exotic animal, that person may only transfer his/her exotic animal to another person who has been issued a valid exotic animal permit by the Town Board. An owner/permittee shall notify the Town Clerk-Treasurer of any changes central to the validity of the permit, including the death of the exotic animal.
  6. Confinement Standards for Exotic Animals.
    1. Prohibited Confinement. An exotic animal shall not be tethered, leashed, chained outdoors, or allowed to run at large.
    2. Confinement Standards.
      1. All exotic animals governed by this Section shall be confined in a building or secure enclosure that has a floor, a secure roof and sides, constructed and maintained so as to securely confine the animal and provide sufficient space to allow each animal adequate freedom of movement.
      2. Inadequate space may be indicated by evidence of animal debilitation, stress, abnormal behavior patterns, or the professional opinion of a veterinarian, a qualified animal trainer, or experts from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), United States Department of Interior, or Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
      3. For each exotic animal, the permittee shall comply with the AZA’s “Minimum Guidelines” for animal care and maintenance or the USDA’s standards for the humane handling, care and treatment of exotic animals [9 CFR Subchapter A (Animal Welfare, Part 3)], whichever is more restrictive. These standards shall provide the basis against which to assess the sufficiency of space or facility for animals for which a permit is sought or held. The Town recognizes that exotic animals typically require extra care in the provision of confinement and care due to the climate and conditions of their original place of origin.
    3. Minimum Outdoor Area Standards. The outdoor area of an exotic animal’s enclosure shall, at a minimum:
      1. Have two (2) sets of wire enclosures with a minimum of four (4) inches separation between them;
      2. Have the sides of the wire enclosure extend downward and be buried a minimum of twelve (12) inches below ground;
      3. Incorporate a roof design with independent fencing separate from and located between the roof and floor of the enclosure so as to prevent escape in the event high winds damage the roof over the enclosure;
      4. Have a floor with a minimum six (6) inch perimeter of breaker rock-grade aggregate around the borders of the enclosed area and a minimum five (5) inch uniform depth of Class Five gravel for the floor, or a floor with a minimum four (4) inch uniform depth of concrete or asphalt over the remainder of the enclosure floor;
      5. Be provided with shelter that allows the exotic animal, if kept outdoors, to remain dry and warm during snow/sleet/rain;
      6. In the alternative, present to and secure approval from the Town Board for an alternative outdoor confinement system that substantially complies with the safeguards of this Section.
      7. In addition to the structural requirements of the exotic animal’s outdoor enclosure, the permittee shall:
        1. Ensure that the outdoor area is maintained in a safe and healthful manner;
        2. Keep the outdoor area free of standing water, accumulated waste, and debris;
        3. Ensure that sufficient shade, by natural or artificial means, is available when the animal is outdoors; and
        4. Maintain the structural soundness of the outdoor structure in good repair to protect the exotic animals from injury and to prevent escape.
    4. Minimum Indoor Area Standards. The indoor area of an exotic animal’s enclosure shall:
      1. Be an insulated, moisture-proof and windproof structure of adequate area to accommodate the need of the animal for adequate freedom of movement;
      2. Contain a solid floor of no less than four (4) inches thick to prevent the animal from escaping;
      3. Incorporate a roof design with independent fencing separate from and located between the roof and floor of the enclosure so as to prevent escape in the event high winds blow off the roof over the enclosure;
      4. Locate the entrance to the building in which the animal is housed facing away from prevailing winds; and
      5. Have a self-closing door over the human and animal entryway during the winter months to protect the animal from cold temperatures.
      6. In addition to the structural requirements of the animal’s indoor enclosure area, the owner of an animal shall:
        1. Ensure that the indoor enclosure area remains at an ambient temperature that will maintain the good health of the exotic animal;
        2. Provide proper ventilation of the indoor structure by natural or mechanical means to provide fresh air for the animal and to prevent moisture condensation;
        3. Ensure that the animal has natural or artificial lighting and adequate heat and ventilation to properly provide for the health of the animal at all times;
        4. Ensure that the animal has proper bedding in sufficient quantity for insulation against the cold and dampness and that is changed regularly; and
        5. Maintain the indoor enclosure area in good repair to protect the animal from injury and to prevent escape.
  7. Notification Signs. All owners/permittees of an exotic animal(s) shall have continuously posted and displayed at each normal entrance onto the premises where an exotic animal is kept a conspicuous sign, clearly visible, and easily readable by the public, warning that there is an exotic animal on the premises. At least one such sign shall be located within twenty (20) feet of the animal’s confinement area using the words “BEWARE OF” with the last word to indicate the type of exotic animal that is being confined. In addition, the permittee shall conspicuously display a sign with a warning symbol that adequately informs children of the presence of an exotic animal.
  8. Escape and Liability for Escape.
    1. Notification of Escape.
      1. An owner/permittee shall immediately notify the Town Chairperson, local Humane Society, the Town’s animal control officer and the County Sheriff’s Department of the escape of any exotic animal for which a permit is required.
      2. No person may intentionally release an exotic animal. If an exotic animal is released by any party, authorized or unauthorized, the owner/permittee is liable for all expenses associated with efforts to recapture the animal, and may, in addition, be subject to a forfeiture.
    2. Liability.
      1. The owner/permittee shall be liable for all costs incurred by any public authority or their agents and resulting from the escape of any animal for which a permit is required, including boarding, placement, veterinarian and legal fees.
      2. Neither the Town or any agent of the Town shall be liable for the loss, death, injury or destruction of any animal for which a permit is required, nor shall the Town be liable for any injury or damage caused by any animal for which a permit is required and issued under this Section.
  9. Inspection. The owner/permittee of an exotic animal, at all reasonable times, shall allow designated inspectors of the Town, humane officers and law enforcement authorities to enter the premises where the animal is kept to ensure compliance with this Section as a condition of permit issuance. Town representatives shall conduct a minimum of three (3) periodic, unannounced inspections of the outdoor and indoor enclosure areas per twelve (12) month period for USDA-designated dangerous exotic animals, and a minimum of one (1) such unannounced inspection per twelve (12) month period for non-dangerous exotic animals, to ensure that said areas are being maintained in the manner required by this Section.
  10. Restraint and Impoundment.
    1. Animals At Large May Be Impounded.
      1. All exotic animals shall be kept confined or under proper restraint by their owners as provided herein and shall not be permitted to run at large. Unrestrained exotic animals and animals running at large may be taken into custody in accordance with Chapter 173, Wis. Stats., and impounded at any facility deemed appropriate for the protection of the public and with facilities and equipment that permit the facility to adequately care for the animal. Such animals shall be considered to be abandoned.
      2. Law enforcement authorities, designees of the Town Board, humane officers or law enforcement officers, upon receipt of information indicating probable cause of a violation of this Section, may in his/her discretion, and after investigation, seize and impound an animal in emergency situations or where previous written notice has failed to produce compliance and when otherwise authorized by law.
    2. Failure to Reclaim; Costs.
      1. If an owner fails to reclaim an exotic animal within seven (7) days of taking the animal into custody, the Town Board shall consider the animal to be unclaimed, as authorized by Section 173.23(1m), Wis. Stats., and shall take such steps as authorized by law. The Town may contact the American Zoo and Aquarium Association for further assistance.
      2. The animal’s owner is liable for the costs of capture, care and placement for the exotic animal from the time of confiscation until the time of return to the owner, until the animal is disposed of, or until the time the animal has been relocated to an approved facility, such as a proper wildlife sanctuary.
      3. If an exotic animal is confiscated due to the animal being kept in contravention of this Section, the animal’s owner is required to post a security bond or cash deposit with the Town and/or animal control authority in an amount sufficient to guarantee payment of all reasonable costs expected to be incurred in caring and providing for the animal, including, but not limited to, the estimated cost of feeding, medical care, and housing for at least thirty (30) days. The posting of the bond or cash deposit shall not prevent the Town or animal control authority from disposing of the animal as permitted by law at the end of the thirty (30) days.
      4. An exotic animal may be returned to its owner only if, to the satisfaction of the Town Board, the possessor has a valid Town exotic animal permit, has corrected the conditions resulting in the confiscation, and has paid in full the cost of placement and care of the animal while under the care and control of the Town or Humane Society.
      5. If the owner of a confiscated exotic animal cannot be located or if a confiscated animal remains unclaimed, the Town or Humane Society may, at its discretion, contact an approved facility, such as an institution accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA), allow the animal to be adopted by a party who can satisfy the permit requirements of this Section, or may euthanize the animal as permitted by law.
      6. If an escaped exotic animal cannot be recaptured safely and is posing a threat to public health and safety, authorities may euthanize the animal as permitted by law.
  11. Animal Care.
    1. Food and Water. No owner shall fail to provide an exotic animal in his/her care with sufficient food, potable water, or shelter when needed.
    2. Humane Treatment. No person shall ill-treat, beat, torment or otherwise abuse an exotic animal.
  12. Incidents Causing Injury.
    1. Notification. All incidents in the Town in which an exotic animal injures or is suspected of injuring any person or domesticated animal shall be reported by the permittee to the Town Chairperson or Town Clerk-Treasurer within two (2) hours of the incident.
    2. Liability. The owner of an exotic animal shall be responsible for all expenses incurred as a result of an injury inflicted or suffered by an exotic animal, whether expenses are incurred by the family of the victim, the victim, the Town or on behalf of the animal involved.
  13. Sanitation.
    1. Fecal Matter; Odor. Any person who owns, harbors, keeps, or controls an exotic animal shall be responsible for keeping his/her property properly clean of fecal matter and to keep obnoxious odors under control.
    2. Waste Disposal. Disposal of all animal waste shall be in a manner that is consistent with normal agricultural practices and adequately protects human and animal health.
  14. Limitation on Exotic Animal Numbers. No person shall own, harbor or keep in his/her possession on any one parcel of property more than two (2) exotic animals over five (5) months of age at any one time, nor shall any person retain a litter/offspring, or portion thereof, of exotic animals longer than five (5) months following birth.
  15. Compliance; Enforcement.
    1. Transition Period.
      1. As a measure deemed necessary by the Town Board to protect the public safety, health and welfare, this Section shall apply to owners of exotic animals in the Town and who possess, harbor, board or keep an exotic animal(s) on the effective date of this Section.
      2. All such existing exotic animal owners shall file with the Town Clerk-Treasurer the location, species, gender and age of each such exotic animal within thirty (30) days of the effective date of this Section. All such existing exotic animal owners shall comply with this Section, including applying for an exotic animal permit, within ninety (90) days of the effective date of this Section.
      3. An exotic animal permit may be issued by the Town Board under the standards and procedures of this Section.
      4. Failure to apply for, and be granted, an exotic animal permit shall result in the animal being removed from its owner by the Town, or its designees, within six (6) months of the effective date of this Section.
    2. Enforcement. The Town Chairperson, with the assistance of the Humane Society and other law enforcement authorities, and such veterinarian assistance as may be needed shall be primarily responsible for the enforcement of this Section. The Town Board may appoint additional persons as may be necessary to assist with the enforcement of this Section.
  16. Wolf/Dog Hybrid Regulation and Confinement. The provisions of this Subsection address the unique public health and safety concerns involved with the keeping of wolf/dog hybrids:
    1. Definitions. A “wolf/dog hybrid” is defined as any cross-breed resulting from the mating of a domesticated dog and a wolf, coyote jackal or dingo or resulting from the mating of any wolf/dog hybrid and another wolf/dog hybrid or a domesticated dog. As used herein:
      1. Canine Animal. Includes all members of the family canidae except foxes.
      2. Domesticated Dog. Canis familiaris.
      3. Wolf. Includes both canis lupus and canis niger.
      4. Coyote. Canis latrans.
      5. Jackal. Canis Aurens.
      6. Dingo. Canis dingo.
    2. Prohibition on Unregistered Animals. No person shall harbor, keep or maintain within the Town of Warren any wolf/dog hybrid which has not been registered pursuant to Subsection (p)(11) below on or before January 30, 2008. This prohibition shall not apply to animals being transported through the limits of the Town of Warren within a one (1) hour period of time. A pup born to a female wolf/dog hybrid so registered shall be removed from the Town of Warren before it has reached the age of five (5) months. Wolf/dog hybrids permitted in the Town of Warren shall be confined as set forth in this Subsection.
    3. Removal; Impoundment. Whenever any person is charged with harboring, keeping or maintaining a wolf/dog hybrid in the Town of Warren which has not been registered on or before January 30, 2008, that person shall remove said animal from the Town of Warren until a trial on the citation. If said animal has not been so removed within forty-eight (48) hours of the service of the citation, the said animal may be impounded as directed by the Town Board until the trial on the citation. In that case, the owner of any such animal shall pay all expenses incurred due to such impoundment, including but not limited to the cost of shelter, food, handling and veterinary care. If it is determined by plea or trial that said animal is a wolf/dog hybrid not registered pursuant to Subsection (p)(11) on or before January 30, 2008, it shall be removed from and not returned to the Town of Warren.
    4. Confinement Requirements. The owner of any wolf/dog hybrid permitted to be kept in the Town of Warren, and the owner of any property on which such wolf/dog hybrid is kept, shall see that the animal is at all times confined according to the minimum requirements of this Subsection. A wolf/dog hybrid may be kept only in enclosures that meet the following minimum requirements:
      1. The first enclosure shall be constructed of not less than nine- (9-) gauge galvanized chain link fencing, with mesh openings not greater than two (2) inches, which shall be securely anchored by stainless steel or copper rings, placed at intervals not greater than six (6) inches apart, to a poured concrete base as described herein. Such enclosure shall be not less than five hundred (500) square feet in area, plus two hundred fifty (250) square feet for each additional canine animal kept therein. Such enclosure shall be the location in which any wolf/dog hybrid is primarily kept.
      2. The first enclosure shall extend to a height of not less than eight (8) feet, and shall be surrounded from ground level to a height of not less than four (4) feet by one-quarter (1/4) inch galvanized mesh screening.
      3. The first enclosure shall have a full top, which shall also be constructed of not less than nine- (9-) gauge chain link fencing with mesh openings not greater than two (2) inches, and which shall be securely anchored to the sides of the enclosure. The entire base of the first enclosure shall be a poured concrete slab floor at least four (4) inches thick.
      4. The second enclosure shall consist of a securely anchored fence at least eight (8) feet in height, which shall entirely surround the first enclosure, and no part of which shall be neared than eight (8) feet in height, which shall entirely surround the first enclosure, and no part of which shall be nearer than six (6) feet from any part of the first enclosure. Said fence shall be a “vision barrier” fence, no more than five percent (5%) open for through vision, except, however, that the portion of said fence facing the dwelling of the owner of said animals or of the property on which they are kept shall be constructed of not less than nine- (9-) gauge chain link fencing, to provide for observation of said animals. If any portion of said fence is made of wood, the finished or painted side thereof shall face outward from the first enclosure.
      5. Both enclosures shall be kept locked with case hardened locks at all times when an animal is unattended by an adult. The first (innermost) enclosure shall have double entrance gates or doors situated and constructed in such a fashion as to prevent an animal from escaping past an open gate or door. The gates or doors providing access to the first (innermost) enclosure shall be spring-loaded, so as to shut on their own accord behind anyone entering that enclosure.
      6. Within the first enclosure, shelter shall be provided adequate to protect the animals confined against weather extremes. The first enclosure shall be regularly cleaned to remove excreta and other waste materials, dirt and trash, in a manner adequate to minimize health hazards and avoid offensive odors.
      7. The above described enclosures shall be located in the rear yard of any property on which a wolf/dog hybrid is kept, as defined in the applicable Zoning Code.
    5. Transportation and Muzzling of Animals. A wolf/dog hybrid may be transported only if confined in a secure, locked container, covered with one-fourth (1/4) inch galvanized fine mesh screen. This paragraph shall not prohibit the walking of such animals, provided they are muzzled and restrained by a leather lead, at least one (1) inch in diameter and not exceeding three (3) feet in length, attached to a metal choker-type collar, under the control of an adult. The muzzle must be made in a manner that will not cause injury to the wolf/dog hybrid or unduly interfere with its vision or respiration, but will prevent it from biting any person or animal.
    6. Right of Inspection. To insure compliance with this Subsection, any person possessing any registration papers, certificate, advertisement or other written evidence relating to the bloodlines or ownership of a canine animal found within the Town shall produce the same for inspection on demand of law enforcement, conservation or public health officer or court.
    7. Limitation on Numbers. No person shall own, harbor or keep in his/her possession on any one parcel of property more than two (2) wolf/dog hybrids over five (5) months of age at any one time, nor shall any person retain a litter or portion of a litter of wolf/dog hybrids longer than five (5) months.
    8. Veterinary Exception. The foregoing provisions of this Subsection shall not apply to doctors of veterinary medicine in temporary possession of wolf/dog hybrids in the ordinary course of their practice.
    9. Abandonment or Negligent Release. No person shall willfully or negligently release or abandon a wolf/dog hybrid as defined herein within the Town.
    10. Nonconforming Enclosures. As to any person keeping wolf/dog hybrids in existing enclosures in the Town of Warren on the date of passage of this Section, Subsection (p)(4) shall take effect on January 30, 2008; for all other persons, said Subsection shall take effect and be in force from and after passage and publication as provided by law. The remaining provisions of this Subsection shall take effect and be in force from and after passage and publication as provided by law.
    11. Wolf/Dog Hybrid Registration. All owners of any wolf/dog hybrid in the Town of Warren shall, on or before January 30, 2008, and annually thereafter on or before January 30th of each year, register such animal and provide a current color photograph of such animal with the Town Clerk-Treasurer’s office and pay a registration fee per Section 1-3-1 annually. At the time of registration, each owner of any wolf/dog hybrid kept within the Town limits shall provide to the Town Clerk- Treasurer proof of liability insurance in the amount of at least One Million Dollars ($1,000,000.00) for any acts of property damage, personal injury or other liability incurred by virtue of any injury or damage inflicted by such wolf/dog hybrid. Such insurance shall name the Town of Warren as co-insured solely for the purpose of notice of cancellation of such insurance policy.
    12. Warning Sign. The owner or keeper of a wolf/dog hybrid shall display on the premises on which such animal is kept signs warning that there is a wolf/dog hybrid on the property as provided herein. Such signs shall be visible and capable of being read within at least twenty (20) feet of their placement, but shall not be more than two (2) square feet in area, and shall state in bold, capital letters, on a white background, the following: “WARNING WOLF/DOG HYBRIDS PRESENT“. One such sign shall be placed in the front yard of any property on which any wolf/dog hybrid is kept, and additional such signs shall be placed on all gates or doors providing access through the second (outermost) enclosure required above.
  17. Penalties. The following penalties shall apply to all violatons of this Section, including Subsection (p) governing wolf/dog hybrids:
    1. Forfeiture. Any person who fails to comply with the provisions of this Section shall, upon adjudication of the violation, be subject to a forfeiture of not less than One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) or more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) per violation, plus the costs of prosecution and any assessments and expenses related to enforcement authorized elsewhere in this Section. Each day of violation shall constitute a separate offense. This penalty is in addition to any other remedies for non-compliance set forth elsewhere in this Section.
    2. Interference With Enforcement. It is unlawful for a permittee/owner or any other person harboring, keeping, boarding or maintaining an exotic animal to fail to comply with the provisions of this Section, and/or for any person on the permittee’s premises to interfere with the enforcement or administration of this Section.

Last modified: 2024-06-01