Issues at the City, County, and Metropolitan Levels, and in US Territories
The AKC Government Relations Department is pleased to assist dog owners with canine legislation issues in their local communities, but we can’t help unless we are aware of the proposal. Please contact us at (919) 816-3720 or doglaw@akc.org when new laws are discussed or introduced in your city or county. We will provide you with resources and tools to help defend the rights of dog owners and support responsible dog ownership in your community.
Here are some examples of the local issues currently being addressed by AKC GR:
AL, Red Bay – A proposed ordinance that seeks to restrict ownership of “pit bull” dogs and prohibit new pit bulls from coming into the city has been discussed. Per the city clerk, a dangerous dog ordinance will likely be discussed at an upcoming city council meeting. Read more.
KS, Wichita – Wichita is considering a pet store ordinance that would prohibit the retail sales of pets at pet stores in the city. The city council met in May to propose an ordinance and it is expected they will meet in July to vote on the ordinance. The Animal Advisory Board met on July 20 to discuss the issue and AKC GR testified virtually at the hearing. Read more.
TN, Knoxville –changes to the city animal and tethering ordinance were discussed among city council members in June. An amendment to zoning code to redefine “kennel” and allow overnight animal boarding, subject to certain approvals, in additional zoning categories was on the city council agenda for July 12, 2022.
TX, Frisco – Frisco is considering proposing a pet store ordinance but AKC and other organizations have been successful in recommending language that will still allow pet stores to source dogs from licensed breeders for retail sales. No ordinance has been proposed at this time.
TX, New Braunfels – New Braunfels proposed an Ordinance in April that would prohibit the retail sales of pets at pet stores. AKC has been in touch with the city since December 2021 opposing the proposal of a pet store ordinance. The city council is expected to take a full vote on the ordinance in July or August.
TX, San Marcos – In February the San Marcos, Texas City Council tabled an ordinance to prohibit pet stores from selling dogs from licensed breeders. The issue was referred to the San Marcos Animal Services Committee where it remains pending.
VA, Rockingham County – At a recent County Planning Commission meeting, the Commission table a proposed Dog Kennel Ordinance. Under the draft proposal, commercial breeding kennels can have no more than four adult breeding females on premises during any rolling 12-month period. Breeding female dogs may have no more than two litters in a rolling 12-month period. The proposal also contains requirements for such operations. AKC GR is reviewing the proposal and will be providing comments and recommended changes to the Planning Commission. Read more.