OR 90-471 Animal control AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF COPPELL, TEXAS
ORDINANCE NO. 90471
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF COPPELL, TEXAS, AMENDING ARTICLE 9-1 OF
THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF COPPELL PROVIDING GENERAL
REGULATIONS FOR THE CONTROL OF ANIMALS WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF
THE CITY; RENAMING THE POSITION OF ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER; EXTENDING THE
HOLDING PERIOD FROM 72 HOURS TO FIVE DAYS; INCREASING PET REGISTRATION
FEES; OMITTING THIRTY DAY RETURN CLAUSE ON ADOPTED ANIMALS; INCREASING
DAILY HANDLING FEES; AND ESTABLISHING A TRAP LOAN DEPOSIT FOR LARGE
ANIMALS; AND RELIEVING THE ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER OF THE DUTY TO IMPOUND
ANIMALS ON THE PREMISES OF ANOTHER; PROVIDING A REPEALING CLAUSE;
PROVIDING A SEERABILITY CLAUSE; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY; AND DECLARING AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COPPELL, TEXAS:
SECTION 1. AMENDING ARTICLE 94 OF CHAF1TMI 9 OF THE CITY CODE OF
ORDINANCES TO PROVIDE FOR THE REGULATION AND CONTROL
OF ANIMALS
Article 9-1 "Animal Control" of Chapter 9 of the Code of Ordinances of the City
of Coppell is hereby amended by to read as follows:
"ARTIcI.R 9-1 ANIMAL CONTROL
Section 9-1-1 DEFINITIONS
Animal shall mean any living creature, including, but not limited to:
dogs, cats, cows, horses, birds, fish, mammals, reptiles, insects, fowls,
and livestock both large and small, but specifically excluding human
beings.
AplmaI Control Officer or Deputy Officer(s) shall mean an employee(s)
of the City of Coppelf who is responsible for the enforcement of the
provisions of this Article.
Cats shall mean both male and female of the cat (feline) kind.
Dogs shall mean both male and female of the dog (canine) kind.
Fighti!lg Animal shall mean any animal which has been bred and trained
for fighting in the so-called sport of animal fighting.
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 1
Livestock, large shall mean horses or any member of the domesticated
horse family, including but not 1Lmited to: mules, donkeys, and ponies;
and all types of varieties of cattle, bulls, and all members of the cow
family.
Livestodq Small shall mean all types of domesticated swine, sheep, and
goats.
Owner shall mean any person, firm, or corporation having title to any
animal; or a person who has, harbors, or keeps, or who causes or
permits to be harbored or kept, an animal in theix care.
Running-At-large shall mean not completely confined by a building, wall
or fence of sufficient strength or construction to restrain the animal,
except when such animal is either on a leash, or held in the hands of
the owner or keeper, or under direct supervision of the owner within
the limits of the owner's private property. Any animal within an
automobile or other vehicle of its owner or owner's agent shall not be
deemed at large.
Videus Animal shall mean any animal that commits an unprovoked
attack on a person or animal on public or private property, or that
attacks, threatens to attack, or terrorizes a person on public property or
in a public place, or that has behaved in a manner that the person who
harbors said animal knows or should reasonable know that the animal
is possessed of tendencies to attack or bite persons. No dog may be
declared vicious if the threat, injury or damage was sustained by a
person who, at the time, was committing a willful trespass or other tort
upon the premises occupied by the owner or keeper of the dog, or was
teasing, tormenting, abusing, or assaulting the dog or has, in the past,
been observed or reported to have teased, tormented, abused or
assaulted the dog or was committing or attempting to commit a crime.
Unprovoked with respect to an attack by an animal shall mean that the
animal was not hit, kicked or struck by a person with an object or pan
of a person's body nor was any pan of the animars body pulled, pinched
or squeezed by a person.
Wild Animal shall mean any venomous or dangerous reptile, or any other
animal which can normally be found in the wild state not normally
capable of being domesticated, including but not limited to: skunks,
foxes, ferrets, leopards, panthers, tigers, lions, lynxes, unless certified for
medical, biological, herpetological, or other scientific research or study.
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 2
Sec. 9-1-2 OlqqCE OF ANIMAL CON'rI~OL Officer
A. CREATION OF POSITION
There shall be and is hereby created the position of Animal Control
Officer for the City of Coppell.
B. APPOINTMENT OF ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER
The City Manager shall appoint an employee an Animal Control Officer.
Such Animal Control Officer and any authorized deputies shall be
assigned to the Environmental Health Department.
C. DUTIES OF THE ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER
It shall be the duty of the Animal Control Officer and their deputies to
enforce all state and local laws regulating animals and under the
direction of the Environmemal Health Officer to administer and enforce
such regulations which the Local Health Authority is authorized to
administer and enforce.
D. PO~ OF OFFICE. RS, DEPU-rlES AND PEACE OFIqCE. RS
The Animal Control Officer, their deputies and peace officers are
authorized to impound any animal mentioned in this Article which is in
violation of this Article. In the event the animal is on private property
or property of animal's owner, the Animal Control Officer, their deputies
and peace officers may emer the property, other than a private dwelling,
for the purpose of impoundment or issuance of a dtation, or both,
subject to the applicable provisions of law.
E. ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER TO ISSUE CITATIONS FOR VIOLATIONS
Any Animal Control Officer shall have the authority to issue citations
for any violation of this Article. If the person being cited is not present,
the Animal Control Officer may send the citation to the alleged offender
by registered or certified mail.
F. UNLAWFUL TO IN'rERFERE WITH ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER
It shall be unlawful for any person to interfere with any Animal Control
Officer or deputy in the performance of their duties.
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 3
A deposit of $25.00 shall be made when requesting a small animal
trap from the City, $75.00 deposit on large size traps.
See. 9-1-3 ANIMALS RUNNING-AT-LARGE
It shall be unlawful for any dog, or other animal possessed, kept, or harbored,
to run at large within the corporate limits of the City, as the term "run at large"
is defined herein.
Sec. 9-1-4 ANIMAL VACCINATIONS AND REGIS'I'RATION
A. VACCINATION REQUIRED
All dogs and cats over four (4) months of age must be vaccinated every
twelve (12) calendar months for rabies with an anti-rabies vaccine
approved by the United States Depmhxtent of Agriculture and
administered by a duly authorized veterinarian. A metal certificate of
vaccination with the year of vaccinations, a certificate number, and the
name, address and phone number of the vaccinating veterinarian, must
be securely attached to a collar or harness that must be worn by the
animal at all times. In addition to the metal certificate, a paper
certificate must be issued stating the name of the owner, the address of
the owner, description of the animal, the date of the vaccination, the
number of the metal certificate and the kind of vaccine used.
B. REGISTRATION REQUI]~F.n
1. No owner shall have within the city any dog or cat four (4)
months of age or older urdess such dog or cat is currently
registered with the City. A current metal registration certificate
issued by the City, must be affixed to a collax or harness that
must be worn by the animal at all times. No dog or cat shall be
registered until it has a current vaccination.
2. Application for initial issuance or renewal of each registration
must be made by the owner in writing or in person, and be
accompanied by a fee of eight dollars ($8.00), unless the cat or
dog being registered has been neutered or spayed and proof of
such surgical sterilization can be shown, then the fee will be four
dollars ($4.00). If the original current registration certificate is
lost or destroyed, the owner may obtain a duplicate registration
from the City by paying a fee of two dollars ($2.00). Dogs and
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 4
cats under the age of six (6) months shall be registered at the
sterilized fee. Animals may be exempted from sterilization or
rabies vaccination provision upon written recommendation from
a veterinarian that such alteration would be harmful or dangerous
to the animal. Fee exempt registration may be issued for the
following:
a. Police or Sheriffs department dog, and
b. Dogs trained to assist the audio or visually impaired
person.
c. Special rabies vaccination clinics offered at redueed rates
co-sponsored by the City.
Eligibility for fee exempt registration does not relieve the owner
of their responsibility under other provisions of this Article.
3. Registration certificates shall be renewed annually. Registration
certificates shall be effective for one (1) year from the date of
issuance, urdess sooner renewed.
C. VETERINARIAN TO BE DEPUTY COI.I.ECTOR
The City Manager is authorized to designate any licensed veterinarian
to be a Deputy Collector of registration fees and upon such designation
such veterinarian shall have authority to issue dog and cat registration
licenses upon completion of vaccination. Each such Deputy Collector of
registration fees shali, on or before the fifth day of each month, turn in
to the City all monies collected by them during the preceding month
along with a report of such collections upon such form as the City may
devise and distribute. For their assistance in such collection, the Deputy
Collector of this fee shall be entided to one dollar ($1.00) per
registration. Tags will be provided by the City consecutively numbered.
D. REGISTRATION AND/OR VACCINATION CERTIFICATES ONLY VAIJD
FOR ANIMAL TO WHICH ISSUED
Registration and/or vaccination certificates (and tags) shall be valid only
for the animal for which it was originally issued. If there is a change
in ownership of a registered dog or cat, the new owner shall have the
registrarion transferred to their name. There shall be no charge for said
transfer. Application for such transfer shall be made to the City in
writing or in person.
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE S
E. CITY 1VLA.Y ~SE OR ~OKE ANIIVLAL lq,E. GISI-F, ATION
The City may refuse to register an animal, or revoke a permit issued to
any person who has been convicted in any duly authorized court of
jurisdiction in the State of Texas, or resides with any person so
convicted of any of the following:
1. Cruelty to animals as defined in the Texas Penal Code, Article
42.11, inhumane treatment, or negligence to an anLrnal, and (Ord.
87-380)
2. Conviction of four (4) or more separate and distinct violations
of an animal control ordinance of a municipality in the State of
Texas, within any twelve (12) month period.
Sec. 9-1-5 APPEAL FROM REFUSAL OR REVOCATION OF ANIMAL REGISTRATION
A. There is hereby created an Appeal Board known a the Animal Control
Appeal Board, which shall be comprised of the City of Coppeil Local
Health Authority (also known as the City Health Officer), a veterinarian
to be appointed by the City Counc~ and one additional member who
shall be a citizen of the City of Coppell, but shall not be an employee
of the City.
ff any person is denied a registration, or a registration is revoked, they
may appeal the refusal or revocation to said Appeal Board by filing with
the City Manager a written request for hearing within ten (10) days
after denial or revocation. The filing of a request for an appeal hearing
with the City Manager stays an action of the City in revoking a
registration until the Appeal Board makes a final decision. If a request
for an appeal hearing is not made within the ten (10) day period, the
denial or revocation is final.
B. The Appeal Board shall elect a Chair from its members. The Board at
an appeal hearing shall consider evidence offered by any interested
person. The formal rules of evidence do not apply to an appeal hearing;
the Appeal Board shall make its decision on the basis of a preponderance
of the evidence presented at the hearing. The Board must render a
decision within fifteen (15) days after the request for an appeal hearing
filed. The Board shall affn-m or reverse the denial or revocation, and
ks decision is final unless the person making the appeal ties a written
request with the City Council for a hearing within tan (10) days after
receipt of notice of the action of the Appeal Board. A written request
to the City Council stays the action of the Appeal Board in denying or
revoking a registration until the City Council renders a final decision.
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 6
C. If a request for an appeal hearing with the City Council is filed within
the ten (10) day period, the City Council shall hear and consider
evidence offered by any interested person. The formal rules of evidence
do not apply to an appeal hearing before the City Council. The City
Council shall decide the appeal on the basis of a preponderance of the
evidence presented at the hearing. The City Council shall affirm or
reverse the action of the Appeal Board by a majority vote; failure to
reach a majority decision on a motion shall leave the Appeal Board
decision unchanged. The result of an appeal hearing before the City
Council is final. The City Council must render a decision at the next
regularly scheduled City Council meeting after the appeal is filed.
Sec. 9-1-6 GUARD DOGS
Any person having care, control, or custody of any dog which has received
guard dog maining must register such dog with the City. Any dog which has
received guard dog training may be disposed of pursuant to the provisions of
this Article. The Animal Control Officer may use such force as is reasonably
necessary to protect the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of the City
in apprehending a guard dog which is found running-at-large. The owners or
keepers of a guard dog shall be subject to the other provisions of this Article.
An ID collar identifying the dog as a guard dog must be worn at all times, and
the dog must wear a muzzle when off the owner's premises and restrained by
a substantial chain or leash not exceeding six (6) feet in length and under the
control of a responsible person. The muzzle must be made in a manner that
will not cause injury to the dog or interfere with ks vision or respiration but
must prevent it from biting any person or animal.
Sec. 9-1-7 IMPOUNDMF_aNT OF ANIMALS
A. ANIMAt,q WHICH MAY BE IMPOUNDED
1. Cats and dogs not exhibiting evidence of being vaccinated or
registered, as descn'bed in Section 9-1-4 of this Article.
2. Any animal infected or kept under conditions which could
endanger the public or animal health.
3. Any animal that creates a nuisance.
4. Any animal running-at-large, as provided in Section 9-1-3 of this
Article.
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 7
5. Any animal treated in a manner determined by the Animal
Control Officer to be cruel or inhumane.
6. Any animal that has bitten a human being, or needs to be placed
under observation for rabies determination, as determined by an
Animal Control Officer.
7. Any animal found to be in violation of any provision of t_his
Ardcjeo
B. CONI, INEMENT OF ANIMAL ON PREMISES OF ANOTHER
If any of the animals named in this Article are found upon the premises
of any person, the owner or occupant of the premises may con_fine such
animal in a humane manner until they can noti/y the Animal Control
Officer to come and impound such animal.
C. CITY TO ESTABLISH A POUND
The City shall select and establish a place for al] animals impounded
under any provision of this Article.
D. ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER TO NOTIFY OWNER OF IMPOUNDED
ANIMAL OR LIVESTOCK
Reasonable effort shatl be made by an Animal Control Officer to contact
the owner of any animal impounded which is wearing a current
registration tag; however, final responsibility for location of an
impounded animal is that of the owner.
E. I~F. nEMPTION OF IMPOUNDED ANIMALq BY OWNER
The owner can resume possession of any impounded animal upon
payment of impoundment fees, handling fees, and any veterinarian bills
incurred by Animal Control for the welfare of the animal and upon
compliance with vaccination and registration provisions of this Code,
except as prohibited below:
1. Disposition of animals impounded on the grounds of cruel or
inhumane treatment shall be determined by the court of
jurisdiction.
2. If any animal is being held under quarantine or observation for
rabies, the owner shall not be entitled to possession until it has
been released from quarantine.
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 8
F. IMPOUNDMENT FF.F_q AND HANDLING CHARGES
1. Impoundment fees shall be:
a. Class A: Dogs and cats (each cat or dog spayed or
neutered)
First Second Third Fourth
Imp. in Imp. in Imp. in Imp. in
12 Mths 12 Mths 12 Mths 12 Mths
$10.00 $20.00 $40.00 $80.00
Unspayed and urmeutered:
First Second Third Fourth
Imp. in Imp. in Imp. in Imp. in
12 Mths 12 Mths 12 Mths 12 Mths
$15.00 $30.00 $60.00 $120.00
(If proof of surgical ste~llzation is provided within fifteen
(15) days from the date an animal is registered, the
difference in impoundment and other fees between
sterilization and unsterilization will be refunded.)
Dogs and cats under the age of six (6) months shall be
charged the sterilization fee. Animals may be exempted
form sterilization upon written recommendation from a
licensed veterinarian that such alternatives would be
harmful or dangerous to the animal Owners of these
animals are to be subject to the lower impoundment fee.
b. Class B: Small livestock, such as: goats, sheep, lambs,
calves, foals, and animals of the same approximate size
and weight, each animal:
First Second Third Fourth
Imp. in Imp. in Imp. in Imp. in
12 Mths 12 Mths 12 Mths 12 Mths
$30.00 $40.00 $50.00 $60.00
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 9
c. Class C: Large livestock, such as: carfie, homes, ponies,
mules, and animals of the same approximate size and
weight, each animal:
First Second Third Fourth
Imp. in imp. in Imp. in Imp. in
12 Mths 12 Mths 12 Mths 12 Mths
850.00 $60.00 $70.00 $80.00
d. cla~s D: Wild Animals: For wild animals requiring capture
by division personnel:
SAME AS CLASS C
If animal already contained:
SAME AS CLASS A (NEUTERED)
NOTE:The Animal Control Officer shall determine the
"class" of any animal not listed above.
2. Daily Handling Fees
A daily handling fee shall be charged for every day, or fraction
thereof, that an animal is at the animal shelter or confined by
City personnel. Said fee shall be based upon the class of animal
enumerated in SecHon 9-1-7 (F)(1) above:
C. lags A ........................................$9.00
Class B ........................................$9.00
C2mss C ........................................$10.00
Class D ........................................$10.00
3. Observation Fees for Animals in Quarantine
The owner of any animal held in quarantine for observation
purposes shal/be charged five dollars ($5.00) for every day or
fraction of a day an animal is at the animal shelter. This is in
addition to any impoundment or daily handling fee.
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 10
4. Other Fees
Any other costs that have been incurred by the City may be
charged to the owner or adopting party.
G. I1ViPOUNDED ANI]VIALS TO BE ELrrHANIZE. n
1. Any animal, except vicious or wild animals, not reclaimed by the
owner may be humanely euthardzed after being impounded for
at least five (5) full days, except that any anLmal wearing a
current registration and/or vaccination tag shall be impounded
for at least seven (7) full days.
2. Any impounded vicious or wild animal, unless there is reason to
believe that it has an owner, may be immediately disposed of as
may be deemed appropriate by an Animal Control Officer.
3. Any nursing baby animal impounded without the mother, or
where the mother cannot or refuses to provide nutritious milk,
may be immediately euthanized to prevent further suffering.
4. An owner who no longer wishes responsibility for an animal, or
believes the animal to be in an ill or injured condition, may sign
a written waiver supplied by the Animal Control Officer allowing
the animal to be immediately euthanized in a humane manner,
provided that no warm blooded animal that has bitten a human
being shall be euthanized unt~ the Local Health Authority or the
veterinarian supervising the quarantine has released the animal
from such quarantine status. The quarantine shall be for a period
of not less than ten (10) days. Pets released to the Animal
Control Officer by their owner for euthanasia or disposal shall
be charged a fee for this service.
a. Cats $20.00
b. Dogs (less than 25 pounds) $25.00
c. Dogs (over 25 pounds) $30.00
With financial hardship cases, these fees may be waived in whole
or in part by the City.
5. Any impounded animal that appears to be suffering from extreme
injury or illness may be euthanized or given to a nonprofit
humane organization by the Animal Control Officer.
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 11
H. ADOPTION OF IMPOUNDED ~
1. Any hnpounded cat or dog not wem-ing a registration certificate
may be given up for adoption after five (S) days, except those
under quarantine. Any impounded cat or dog wearing a
registration certificate may be given up for adoption on the
seventh (7th) day of confinement.
2. An individual may adopt an animal (dogs and cats only) from the
City Animal Sheker under the following conditions:
a. The animal has been classified as adoptable by the Animal
Control Officer.
b. The prospective adopter has proper facilities to care for
the animal.
c. The prospective adopter obtains all necessary vaccinations
and registrations at their expense.
3. The Animal Control Officer may refuse to allow a person to
adopt a cat or dog of whom he has reason to believe:
a. Would not be able to obtain a registration certificate under
restrictions of this Article.
b. Would not have proper facilities to contain or care for the
animal, as required by this Article.
c. Wants the dog or cat for the purpose or resale or for
purposes other than pet ownership.
d. Would not be a suitable owner within the sole discretion
of the Animal Control Officer.
e. That the cat or dog would be a hazard to humans or other
Sec. 9-1-8 ANIMAL QUARANTINE AND RABIES CONTROL
A. ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER CAN ORDER QUARANTINE OF ANIMALS
The Animal Control Officer and Environmental Health Officer shall have
the authority to order the quarantine of animals responsible for bite
incidents, or suspected of having any zoonotic disease considered to be
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 12
a hazard to the human population or other animals. All animal bke
reports shall be investigated by Animal Control. The Animal Control
Officer shall direct the disposition of any animal suspected of being
rabid or having any other zoono~c disease considered to be a hazard
to any other animal or human being.
B. QUARANTINE OF ANIMALS WHICH HAVE BI'I'IKN
Every animal that bites a human or attacks another animal in an
unnatural manner, shall be immediately confined by the owner, who
shall promptly notify the Animal Control Officer, of the place where such
animal is confined and the reason therefor. The owner shall not permit
such animal to come in contact with any other person or animal. The
owner shall surrender possession of such animal to the Animal Control
Officer on demand for supervised quarantine. Supervised quarantine
shall be at the animal shelter or a veterinary hospital, or by any other
method of adequate confinemere approved by the Animal Control Officer.
The quarantine shall be for not less than ten (10) days and shall be
under the supendsion of a veterinarian, who shall submit to Animal
Control written reports as to the animal's health on the initial day of
observation and on the fifth (Sth) and tenth (10th) days immediately
following the date of said bite incident or above enumerated purposes
of quarantine. A release from quarantine may be issued if no signs of
rabies have been observed during the quarantine period.
Any animal quarantined other than at the animal shelter shall be
observed by the same veterinarian throughout the entire required
quarantine period in the same manner as outlined above, and the owner
shall immediately notify the Animal Control Officer as to the veterinarian
supervising the quarantine.
If the Animal Control Officer orders quarantine other than in the animal
shelter or veterinary hospital, the owner shall be responsible for
confining the animal. They shall also be required to obtain the same
veterinary supervision of the animal, and release from quarantine as
required in a veterinary hospital or at the animal shekel
Any person having possession of, or responsibility for, any quarantined
animal shall immediately notify the Animal Control Officer if such animal
escapes, or becomes or appears to become sick, or dies; and, in case of
death of the animal while under quarantine, shall immediately surrender
the dead animal to the Animal Control Officer for diagnostic purposes.
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 13
C. VIOLATING QUARANTINE RESTRICTIONS JUST CAUSE FOR
IMPOUNDMENT
The violation of quarantine by any person shall be just cause for seizure
and impoundment of the quarantined animal by Animal Control. It shall
be unlawful for any person to interrupt the observation period.
D. KILI.ING OR REMOVING OF ANIMAL SUSPECTED OF RABIES OR
piAf:E.D UNDER QUARAN'I'INE FROM CrlY UNLAWFUL
Without permission of the Animal Control Officer, it shall be unlawful
for any person to kill or remove from the city limits any animal that has
bitten a person or other animal, or that has been placed under
quarantine, except when it is necessary to kill such animal to protect the
life of any person or other animal.
E. CARCASSES OF DEAD ANIMALS SUSPEurED OF RABIES TO BE
SURRENDERED TO ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER
The carcass of any dead animal exposed to rabies, or suspected of having
been rabid, shall, upon demand, be surrendered to the Animal Control
Officer.
F. DISPOSITION OF ANIMAKS EXPOSED TO RABIES
Any person having knowledge of the existence of any animal known to
have been, or suspected of being, exposed to rabies must immediately
report such knowledge to the Animal Control Officer or Environmental
Health Officer, giving any information which may be required. For any
animal known to have been, or suspected of being, exposed to rabies,
the animal shall be handled in one (1) of the following manners:
2. Humane destruction, with notification to, or under the supervision
of, the Animal Control Officer.
2. If not currently vaccinated, quarantine in a veterinary hospital for
at least ninety (90) days immediately following the date of the
exposure, or
3. If currently vaccinated, mediate revaccination and quarantine
for at least thirty (30) days immediately following the date of the
exposure.
If a veterinarian determines that the quarantined animal does not show
the clinical signs of rabies, it may be released to the owner upon
expiration of the quarantine period provided the owner has paid all of
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 14
the reasonable costs of such quarantine and any veterinarian bills.
However, if the quarantined animal does show clinical signs of rabies,
the animal shall be humanely destroyed and its head or brain submitted
to the nearest laboratory, certified by the Texas Department of Health
for rabies diagnosis, for testing.
No wild animal will be placed in quarantine. All wild animals will be
humanely destroyed in such manner that the brain is not mutilated. The
brain will then be submitted to a laboratory, certified for rabies
diagnosis, in order to be tested.
G. UNLAWFUL TO FAIL OR REFUSE TO SURRENDF_,R ANIMAL FOR
QUARANTINE OR DEb'fRUCflON
No person shall fail or refuse to surrender an animal for supervised
quarantine or humane destruction, as required herein for rabies control,
when demand therefor is made by an Animal Control Officer.
Sec. 9-1-9 ANIMAL NUISANCES
The following shall be considered a public nuisance and shall be unlawful:
A. The keeping of any animal, which causes frequent or long continued
offensive odors in the vicinity.
B. The keeping of any animal in such a manner as to endanger the public
health; to annoy neighbors by the accumulation of animal wastes which
cause foul and offensive odors, or are considered to be a hazard to any
other animal or human being; or by continued presence on the premises
of another, or which constitutes or becomes a health hazard as
determined by the Environmental Health Officer or Local Health
Authority.
C. All animal pens, stables or enclosures in which any animal may be kept
or confined which, from use, have become offensive to a person or
ordinary sensibilities.
D. The keeping of bees in such a manner as to deny the lawful use of
adjacent property or endanger personal health and weftare.
E. Persistent laxness in supervision of animals that this results in
disturbance to persons or ordinary sensibilities, or causes property
damage.
F. It sha.ll be unlawful and a public nuisance for any person to harbor or
keep on their premises, or in or about their premises, or premises under
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 15
their control, any dog or animal of the dog kind, which by loud or
unusual barking or howling shall cause the peace or quiet of the
neighborhood or the occupants of adjacent premises to be disturbed.
Sec. 9-1-10 ANIMALS PROHIBITED AS NOVELTIES
A. UNLAWFUL TO SEIL, BARTER, OR GIVE AWAY FOWL UNDER THREE
(3) WE. EF, S OLD AND RABBITS UNDER TWO (2) MONTHS OLD
It shall be unlawful for any person to seE, offer for sale, barter, or give
away as toys, premiums or novelties, baby chickens, ducklings or other
fowl under three (3) weeks old; rabbks under nvo (2) months old;
unless the manner or method of display is first approved by the Animal
Control Officer.
B. UNI~W]rLIL TO SEI.I. OR GIVE AWAY COLORED, DYED OR STAINED
FOWL OR RABBITS
It shall be unlawful to color, dye, stain, or otherwise change the natural
color of any chickens, ducld/ngs, other fowl, or rabbits, or to possess for
the purpose of sale or to be given away, any of the above mentioned
animals which have been so colored.
Sec. 9-1-11 WILD ANIMALS PROI-I]BH'ED
It shall be unlawful to keep any wild an/rnal inside the City of Coppell.
Sec. 9-1-12 VIGIOUS ANIMALS
A. VICIOUS ANIMALS RUNNING-AT-LARGE PROHIBITED
It shall be unlawful to release or allow to run-at-large any wild or
vicious animal. The Animal Control Officer or any peace officer of the
City may use such force as is necessary to protect the public health,
safety and welfare in apprehending or preventing any such vicious or
wild animal to run at large.
B. ANIMAL CON'll~OL OFFICER MAY ORDER EXPULSION OF VICIOUS
ANIMAL FROM CITY
The Animal Control Officer may order in writing an), owner or person
having care, control, or custody of any vicious animal to take such
animal perrnanen~y from the dry. This animal must be removed
inunediately following receipt of such written order, unless an appeal
is immediately initiated as provided herein.
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 16
The owner or person having care, custody, or control of a vicious animal
must report the disposition and relocation of such animal to the Animal
Control Officer, in writing, within ten (10) days after the expiration date
for removal of such animal from the City. Each day thereafter that such
information is not provided shall constitute a separate offense.
The Animal Control Officer shall be authorized to obtain a search and
seizure warrant if there is reason to believe that an animal ordered
removed form the City for being vicious has not been so removed.
C, FAILURE TO REMOVE VICIOUS ANIMAL FROM CITY
If the owner or person having care, custody or control of a vicious
animal fails to remove such animal as provided for in subsection 9-1-
12 (B) of this Afficle, such animal may be impounded pursuant to the
seizure warrant authorized by subsection 9-1o12 (B), and thereafter such
animal may be disposed of as provided for herein.
See. 9-1-13 APPEAL FOR REMOVAL OF VICIOUS ANIMALS
A. If any person is ordered, in writing, to remove a vicious animal form the
City, they may appeal the written order to the Animal Control Appeal
Board created by this Artic]e, by filing with the City Manager a v~tten
request for a hearing within ten (10) days after receipt of the writren
order. The filing of a request for an appeal hearing with the City
Manager stays an action of the City ordering the removal of a vicious
anixnal from the City unti] the Appeal Board makes a final decision. if
a request for an appeal heaxlng is not made within the ten (10) day
period, the order to remove is final.
B. The Appeal Board shall e]ect a Chair from its members. The Board at
an appeal hearing shall consider evidence offered by any interested
person. The formal rules of evidence do not apply to an appeal hearing;
the Appeal Board shall make its decision on time basis of a preponderance
of the evidence presented at the hearing. The Board must render a
decision within fifteen (15) days after the request for an appeal hearing
is filed. The Board shall affirm or reverse the denial or revocation, and
its decision is final unless the person making the appeal files a written
request with the City Council for a hearing within ten (10) days after
receipt of notice of the action of the Appeal Board. A written request
to the City Council stays the action of the Appeal Board in ordering the
removal of a vicious animal from the City.
C. If a request for an appeal hearing with the City Council is filed within
the ten (10) day period, the City Council shall hear and consider
evidence offered by any interested person. The formal rules of evidence
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 17
do not apply to an appeal heating before the City Council. The City
Council shall decide the appeal on the basis of a preponderance of the
evidence presented at the hearing. The City Council shall aftinn or
reverse the action of the Animal Control Appeal Board by a majority
vote; failure to reach a majority decision on a motion shall leave the
Appeal Board decision unchanged. The result of an appeal hearing
before the City Council is final. The City Council must render a decision
at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting after the appeal is
filed.
Sec. 9-1-14 FIGHTING ANIMALS
It shall be unlawful for any person to keep, own, maintain, harbor or bring into
the corporate limits of the City of Coppell any dog or other animal which has
been used or trained in the so-called sport of animal fighting. If it comes to
the attention of the Animal Control Officer that such a fighting animal is being
kept, m~ntained, harbored or brought into the City of Coppeil, written notice
shall be given by the Animal Control Officer to the owner of said animal to
remove such animal from the limits of the City wig ten (10) days of receipt
of such notice. Thereafter, each day such animal remains in the City shall
constitute a separate violation of this Article. In addition to the penal remedy
set forth herein, the City may seek a determination and order of a court of
competent jurisdiction that said animal is an animal used or trained in the so-
called sport of animal fighting, does constitute a public nuisance, and should
be removed from the City or impounded or destroyed.
Sec. 9-1-15 REGULATING COMMERCIAL BUSINESSES ASSOCIATED WITH ANIMALS
A. PERMIT REQUIRED FOR COMMKRCIAL BUSINESSES
No person shall conduct the commercial business of selling, grooming,
breeding, showing, exhibiting or boarding of animals without a valid
permit from the Animal Control Officer. A commercial business is
defined as trading or seEdrig goods or services, especially of raising,
selling or slaughtering small or large livestock, or selling animals for
pets.
B. CO1VIPLIANCE WTI'H ALL REGULATIONS REQUI]~KD
Every person engaged in the business of buying, selling, grooming,
breeding, showing, exhibiting or boarding of animals, and all persons
who conduct animal dub shows, must comply with all existing
regulations governing said business or show, and shall maintain said
anlrnals in compliance with this Article so as not to endanger the public
or animal health or safety, or create a nuisance.
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 18
C. APPLICATION FOR PERM]T
Application for permits and payment of the appropriate fee shall be made
to the Animal Control Officer on forms furnished by Animal Control.
The application will not be approved until certification has been received
from appropriate dry officials that the zoning, construction and facility
comply with existing ordinances for establishments housing such
business. If the permit application is approved by the Animal Control
Officer, a permit shall be issued and any special conditions adhered to
by the permittee.
The Animal Control Officer shall make any inspections necessary to
assure compliance under this section. Animals shall be kept under
sanitary conditions so as not to endanger the public or animal health,
or create a nuisance. Certificates of liability may be required to be
furnished by a bona fide insurance company in an amount to be
specified by the City.
D. DURATION AND RENEWAL OF PERMIT
All permits issued under this section shall be valid for the following
twelve (12) months and shall be renewed annually thereafter by proper
written application and payment of fee. No permit issued under this
section shall be renewed without the approval of the Animal Control
Officer. Permits to show or exhibit animals (rodeos, circuses, shows,
etc.) shall be valid only for the thirty (30) day period immediately
following issue. No permit shall be transferable.
E. PERMIT FEES
The foliowing fees shall be charged for:
1. Show or exhibition ......................................$25.00
2. Grooming .....................................................$25.00
3. Commercial Dealer (Retail an&or Wholesale
Distributor) ................................................... $50.00
4. Commercial Stables ....................................$100.00
Persons requiring more than one (1) such permit shall be charged one
(1) fee for all of the permits. Such fee shall be equal to the amount of
the highest individual permit fee which would have been charged if the
permits had been separately issued,
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE ~ PAGE 19
F. PERMITS TO BE PROMINENTLY DISPLAYED
All businesses deserlbed in this section must display the required permits
in public view at said business.
G. EXEMPTIONS
1. In cases involving a scientific or educational program, a nonprofit
organization's show, exhibition, or humane activity, or animals
owned by the city, the Animal Control Officer or the
Envh'oumental Health Officer may waive in writing any
requirements of this section concerning permits, fees, or
conditions within their discretion.
2. Licensed veterinarians and veterinary clinics are exempt form this
section.
S. The permit required by this Article shall not apply to any person
pasturing livestock in an area properly zoned for that use. The
number and type of livestock must be registered with Animal
Control and a drawing of the property subn,jtted at least annually
if changes occurred in the number or type of livestock. No fee
to register livestock shall be assessed.
H. ANIMAL TRAPPING AND POISONING WrlHOUT PERMIT PROHIBrrI~;D
Any form of animal trapping or poisoning without a permit from the
Animal Control Officer is prohibited.
I. REVOCATION OF PERMITS
The Animal Control Officer may revoke in writing any permit for failure
to comply with regulations contained herein.
Sec. 9-1-16 APPEAL OF REVOCATION OF PERMITS
A. If the City revokes a permit under Section 9-1-15, the permit holder may
appeal such revocation to the Animal Control Appeal Board created by
this Article, by filing with the City Manager a written request for a
hearing, within ten (10) days after receipt of the revocation. The filing
of a request for an appeal heating with the City Manager stays an action
of the City revoking a permit until the Appeal Board makes a final
decision. If a request for an appeal hearing is not made within the ten
(10) day period, the revocation is final.
B. The Appeal Board shall elect a Chair from its members. The Board at
an appeal hearing shall consider evidence offered by any interested
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 20
person. The formal rules of evidence do not apply to an appeal hearing;
the Appeal Board shall make its decision on the basis of a preponderance
of the evidence presented at the hearing. The Board must render a
decision within fifteen (15) days after the request for an appeal hearing
is filed. The Board shall affirm or reverse the revocation, and their
decision is final unless the person making the appeal files a written
request with the City Council for a hearing within ten (10) days after
receipt of notice of the action of the Appeal Board. A written request
to the City Council stays the action of the Appeal Board in revoking a
permit until the City Council renders a final decision.
C. If a request for an appeal hearing with the City Council is filed within
the ten (10) day period, the City Council shall hear and consider
evidence offered by any interested person. The formal ~les of evidence
do not apply to an appeal hearing before the City Council, The City
Council shall decide the appeal on the basis of a preponderance of the
evidence presented at the hearing. The City Council shall affirm or
reverse the action of the Appeal Board by a majority vote; failure to
reach a majority decision on a motion shall leave the Appeal Board's
decision unchanged. The result of an appeal hearing before the City
Council is final. The City Council must render a decision at the next
regularly scheduled City Council meeting after the appeal is fled.
See. 9-1-17 ICF..EPING OF LIVESTOCK
A. JCF-F..PING OF SWINE PROHIBITED IN CI'IY
It shall be unlawful for a person to keep any swine within the city limits.
B. KEEPING OF COWS OR HORSES
It shall be unlawful for any person to keep a cow or horse on any
premises, the overall area of which is less than one-third (1/3) of an
acre for each cow or horse kept, or keep more than can be cared for
under sanitary conditions and not create a public nuisance and, in no
event, exceed the permitted number of adults and their foals or calves
up to six (6) months of age. The number of cows or horses permitted
shall not exceed one adult per one-third (1/3) acre for the first acre,
and two (2) adults per acre for each additional acre over two (2) acres
of a single tract of land. The persons in lawful possession of the
premises, as owner or tenant, may keep thereon cows or homes
belonging to others, but lirnitation to number of cows or horses on the
premises and the area and distance requirements of this section shall still
apply; and keeping of cows or homes for others shall not be done as a
business in violation of the zoning ordinance.
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 21
C. ENCLOSURE REQHIREMEa'q~ FOR SMALL LIVESTOCK
l. Fencing: Any enclosure, pen, corral, or other restrictive areas for
small Livestock shall consist of a solid wall stretching from the
ground to at least four feet (4') in height, that does not sway or
give way when tested by an Animal Control Officer, or sha]/
consist of a fence. Such a fence must have at least sixteen (16)
gauge wire arranged in a grid pattern (hogwire) with the
maximum size of any grid in the wire being seven and one-half
inches (7 1/2") by twelve inches (12"). This wire pattern must
stretch continuously ~om the ground to at least thirty-two inches
(32") above the ground. Above this wire pattern must be
stretched tautly at least two (2) strands of at least sixteen (16)
gauge wire with one (1) of these strands at least four feet (4')
above the ground. The maximum distance allowed between fence
posts shall be fifteen feet (15'). The fence posts must not sway
more than six inches (6") when tested by an Animal Control
Officer. Trees may not be used as fence posts.
2. Gates: Gates for such a small Livestock enclosure shall be
mounted on hinges to a soLid wall or fence post and stretch from
the ground to at least four feet (4') above the ground. Such a
gate must connect with another fence post or soLid wall in such
a manner that small livestock cannot pass through it, and the
gate kself must be constructed so that there is not an opening
in it larger than seven and one-half inches (7 1/2") by twelve
inches (12"). Such gates must have a latch or chain attached,
capable of keeping the gate dosed when tested by an Animal
Control Officer. Gates must be kept dosed except when a human
being is passing through a gate.
D. ENCLOSURE REQUIREMF2qFS FOR t. ARGE LIVEKIX3(~
1. Fencing: Any enclosure, corral, or restrictive area for large
livestock shall consist of a solid wall stretching from the ground
to at least four feet (4') above the ground, that does not sway
or give way when tested by an Animal Control Officer, or shall
consist of a fence. Such a fence must have at least sixteen (16)
gauge wire stretcLied tau~y between fence posts. Such a fence
shall have at least four (4) strands of wire with one (1) strand
one foot (1') above the ground and one (l) strand at least four
feet (4') above the ground. The maximum distance between the
fence posts shall be ridteen feet (15'). The fence posts must not
sway more than six inches (6") when tested by an Animal Control
Officer. Trees may not be used as fence posts.
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 22
2. Gates: Gates for large livestock shall be mounted on hinges to
a solid wall or fence and stretch from one foot (1') above the
ground to at least four feet (4') above the ground. Such a gate
must connect with another fence post or solid wall in such a
manner that large livestock cannot pass through it, and the gate
itself must be constructed so that there is not an opening in it
large enough for large livestock to pass through. Such gates must
have a latch or chain attached capable of keeping the gate dosed
when tested by an Animal Control Officer. Gates must be kept
dosed, except when a human being is actually passing through
a gate.
E. ENCLOSURE REQUIRFAVIEN'I~ WHEN BOTH SMALL AND LARGE
LIVESTOCK ARE KEPT TOGETHER
When small and large livestock are kept together the standards for small
livestock must be met.
F. RES'T~CTING CONFINEMENT OF LIVESTOCK NEAR RESIDENCES OR
ADJOINING RESIDF_2CIIAL PROPERTY
1. It shall be unlawful for any person, finn, or corporation to keep
oz~ premises under their or its control, within the city Limits, any
small or large livestock in such a manner that the Livestock will
be quartered, stabled or shekered closer than one hundred feet
(100'3 from any human living quarters, other than the owner or
keepers living quarters.
2. Any pen or enclosure shall be maintained in such a manner as
to be not less than ten feet (10') from an adjoining residentlally
zoned properr3.,.
G. BREEDING OR EQUINES TO BE CONFINED AND CONTROI.I.ED
Male equines (horses) capable of breeding will be confined in such a
manner that said animal will not be dangerous to human beings, and
all bree;cling will be under the conu'ol of the owner or handler.
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 23
Sec. 9-1-18 SANITARY REQUIREMENTS FOR gEEPING OF ANIMALS
A. GENERALLY
The owner or person in possession of animals shall keep yards, pens,
and enclosures in which such anLmals are confined in such a manner so
as not to give off odors offensive to persons of ordinary sensibilities
residing in the vicinity, or to breed or am'act flies, mosquitoes, or other
noxious insects, or, in any manner, to endanger the public health or
safety, or create a public nuisance.
B. SANITARY REGULATIONS FOR INFFIAL PENS OR ENCLOSURES
All persons keeping such animals shall comply with the following
sanitary regulations:
1. Manure and droppings shall be removed from pens, stables, yards,
cages and other enclosures at least twice weekly and handled or
disposed of in such manner as to keep the premises free of any
2. Mound storage of droppings or manure between such removals
shall be permitted only under sucli conditions as to protect
against the breeding of flies and to prevent migration of fly larvae
(maggots) into the surrounding soil.
3. The feeding of vegetables, meat scraps, or garbage shall be done
only in impervious containers or on an impervious platform.
4. Watering troughs or tanks shall be provided which shall be
equipped with adequate facilities for draining the overflow so as
to prevent the breeding of flies, mosquitoes, or other insects.
5. No putrescible material shall be allowed to accumulate on the
premises, and all such material used to feed which is unconsumed
shall be removed and disposed of by burial or other sanitary
Sec. 9-1-19 PET CARE
The foliowing are established as guidelines for pet and animal care and not
intended to contravene with the provisions for animal cruelty as contained in
the Texas Penal Code.
UNLAINFUL TO NOT PROVIDE FOR ADEQUATE AND HUMANE CARE
AND SHEI.TER FOR ANIMALS
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 24
No owner shall fail to provide their animals with sufficient good and
wholesome food and water, proper shelter and protection from the
weather, veterinary care when needed to prevent suffering, and with
humane care and treatment.
B. ABUSING A~TIM~t-~ OR INSTIGATING ANIMAL FIGHTS PROHIBH-Ie.:I)
No person shall beat, cruelly ill-treat, torment, overload, overwork, or
otherwise abuse an animal; or cause, instigate, or permit any dogfight,
cockfight, bullfight, or other combat between animals or between animals
and humans.
C. ABANDONING ANIMALS PROHIBITED
No owner of an animal shall abandon such animal.
D. UNLAWFUL TO CROP DOG'S EARS UNLESS VETERINARIAN
No person shal] crop a dog's ears, except when a licensed veterinarian
issues a signed cen:ificate that the operation is necessary for the dog's
health and comfort, and in no event shall any person except a licensed
veterinarian perform such an operation.
E. VEH]C~ .~ OPERATORS TO STOP UPON STRIKING ANIMAL, RENDF_.R
ASSISTANCE, AND THEN REPORT SUCH INCIDENT
Any person who, as the operator of a motor vehicle, strikes a domestic
animal shall stop at once and render such assistance as may be possible
and shall immediately report such injury or death to the appropriate
local law enforcement agency."
Section 2. REPEALING CLAUSE
All ordinances, or parts of ordinances, inconsistent or in conflict with the provisions
of this ordinance are hereby repealed.
Section 3. SEVERABII/TY CLAUSE
If any article, paragraph or subdivision, clause or provision of this ordinance shall be
adjudged invalid or held unconstitutional, the same shall not affect the validlty of this
ordinance as a whole or any part or provisions thereof, other than the part so decided to be
invalid or unconstitutional.
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE - PAGE 25
Section 4. PENALTY CLAUSE.
Any person, firm or corporation violating any of the provisions of this ordinance shall
be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be punished by a penalty of
fine not to exceed the sum of Five Handred Dollars ($500.00) for each offense; except where
a different penalty has been established by state law for such offense, the penalty shall be
that fixed by state law, and for any offense which is a violation of any provision that governs
fire safety, zoning, public health and sanitation or dumping of refuse as that term is defined
by Section 2.09 of the Texas Litter Abatement Act, Article 4477-9a, Vemon's Annotated Civil
Statutes, as urnended, the penalty shall be a fine not to exceed the sum of Two Thousand
Dollars, ($2,000.00) for each offense, and each and every day such offense is continued shall
constitute a new and separate offense.
Section 5. EFFEUI1VE DATE.
This ordinance shall take effect immediately after publication of its caption as the law
in such cases provides.
DULY PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Ci~ Council of the City of
Coppe]l, Texas this the ,/._2~ day of i , 1990.
APPROVED:
MAYOR
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
AMENDING ANIMAL CONTROL ORDINANCE .- PAGE 26