Item Coversheet

Item Number 23.

  

City Council 
Staff Report


Subject:

Ordinance of the City of Rocklin Enacting Section 6.12.300 of Title Six of the Rocklin Municipal Code, Requiring the Removal of Animal Waste



Date:June 22, 2021


Submitted By:

Jonas Wilks, Police Sergeant



Department:Police

Staff Recommendation:

Adopt an Ordinance of the City of Rocklin Enacting Section 6.12.300 of Title Six of the Rocklin Municipal Code, Requiring the Removal of Animal Waste.

BACKGROUND:

The proposed Ordinance was introduced, further reading waived, and read by title only at the June 8, 2021 City Council Meeting. The Ordinance is now presented for adoption.

 

The Rocklin Police Department has received complaints from citizens in the community about the owners or those having possession of dogs failing to remove and dispose of dog feces.  The community in Rocklin strives to promote the inclusion of dogs in many venues such as parks, walking trails, and events.  The Rocklin Police Department has been restricted when dealing with incidents and complaints that involved dog feces that were left on City and private property.

 

Current California State law does not address actions when a dog defecates on public or private land.  An ordinance that places accountability on an owner or those with possession of the dog will allow the citizens and visitors of Rocklin to enjoy a more sanitary environment.

 

If adopted, this Ordinance will hold the owner or person in control of a dog responsible for the immediate removal and disposal of feces in a sanitary manner and promotes the carrying of a suitable container by the owner or person responsible for the dog.  Additionally, it holds accountable a private property owner or occupier for odors from animal waste on private property that emits noxious or offensive odors.  This ordinance would give law enforcement and code enforcement additional tools to help remedy these types of complaints.

Fiscal Impact:

None.  The issuance of citations and facilitating administrative hearings will be administered by the police department, code enforcement and the City using existing practices, personnel, and resources.

ATTACHMENTS:
Description
Ordinance
This Staff Report has been reviewed by the City Attorney for legal sufficiency and by the City Manager for content.