To: Aaron Rector, City Manager
From: Bradley G. Fortune, Chief of Police
Subject:
Title
Consider an ordinance amending the City of Keller Code of Ordinances Chapter 3 - Animals, Fowl, Insects and Reptiles by amending Section 3-100. Definitions; Section 3-460. Trapping of Animals; and adding a new Section 3-465. Animals in Protective Custody; providing a cumulative clause; a severability clause; directing publication; and establishing an effective date.
Background:
The Keller Police Department, in coordination with Animal Services, has reviewed and proposes to update animal-related ordinances to improve efficiency, align with state laws, and ensure best practices.
Trapping of Animals (Sec. 3-460) - The amended section clarifies it is unlawful for individuals to tamper with, remove, or damage traps set by Animal Services personnel. It also prohibits setting traps in a manner that may injure or kill an animal. These changes ensure the humane treatment of animals and compliance with best practices and applicable state laws.
Animals in Protective Custody (Sec. 3-465) - establishes a 10-day hold period for animals taken in due to emergencies such as fires, hospitalizations, or arrests. Fees will be waived in certain cases, while boarding fees will apply after 24 hours for animals impounded due to an arrest. Owners or authorized persons may reclaim their pets at any time.
Dangerous dog definition (Sec. 3-100) - The revised definition expands the scope of a “dangerous dog” to include any dog that makes an unprovoked attack resulting in serious bodily injury to a domesticated animal in areas outside of a private enclosure, commercial kennel, animal shelter, or city-designated dog park. This update aligns the City’s ordinance with the Texas Health and Safety Code and brings consistency with surrounding jurisdictions.
Legal Review:
The City Attorney has reviewed this item.
Council Action:
Staff recommends approval of the proposed ordinance as presented.