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Bylaw 3371-25 - Dog Control and Licensing Bylaw
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BYLAW 3371-25
OF THE CITY OF CAMROSE
PROVINCE OF ALBERTA
WHEREAS pursuant to the Municipal Government Act, R.S.A., 2000, c M-26, as amended, a
municipality may pass bylaws with respect to wild and domestic Animals and activities in relation
to them;
AND WHEREAS pursuant to the Municipal Government Act, R.S.A., 2000, c M-26, as amended,
a municipality may pass bylaws with respect the safety, health, and welfare of people and the
protection of people and property;
AND WHEREAS, the City of Camrose is of the view it is necessary for the preservation and
protection of public health, safety, and welfare of the residents of the City to provide for the
licensing, control and keeping of Dogs within the City of Camrose.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Council of the City of Camrose, duly
assembled, ENACTS AS FOLLOWS:
1. This Bylaw is called the "Dog Control and Licensing Bylaw."
2. Definitions:
2.1.
"Animal" means any live creature, both domestic and wild, and includes fowl, fish, and
reptiles but does not include a human.
2.2.
"At Large" means a Dog that is not restrained by a Leash or otherwise under the
physical control of a Person at a location other than:
2.2.1.
the Owner's property;
2.2.2.
inside the boundaries of an Off Leash Area;
2.2.3.
on private property with the consent of the Owner of that private property;
2.2.4.
during grooming; or
2.2.5.
while participating in a Dog sporting, training, or show event.
The Leash shall not be greater than two (2) metres in length.
2.3.
"Attack" means an assault by a Dog upon a Person or other Dog, Wildlife, Livestock,
or other domesticated household pet which causes injury to that Person or other Dog,
Wildlife, Livestock, or other domesticated household pet.
2.4.
"Bite" means an application of force by a Dog by means of its mouth and teeth upon
a Person or other Dog which results in pain or injury of any nature being inflicted upon
that Person or Dog.
2.5.
"Cat" means any domesticated Cat.
2.6.
"City" means the Corporation of the City of Camrose, or the corporate limits of the City
of Camrose, as the context requires.
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2.7.
"City Manager" means the individual appointed by Council to the position of Chief
Administrative Officer as per the Municipal Government Act or their designate.
2.8.
"Collar" means a device made of leather, fibre, metal, etc. capable of having metal
Dog Tags securely fastened to it and designed solely intended to be worn around the
neck of a Dog.
2.9.
"Communicable Disease" means diseases which can be passed from Animal to
Animal and zoonotic diseases as per the Animal Protection Act, R.S.A. 2000, c A-41.
2.10. "Council" means the municipal Council of the City of Camrose.
2.11. "Court" means a Court of competent jurisdiction in Alberta.
2.12. "Designated Officer" has the same meaning as given under the Municipal Government
Act, RSA 2000, c M-26.
2.13. "Dog" means any canine Dog over the age of six (6) months.
2.14. "Dog Tag" means a numbered, metal, identification Dog Tag issued by the City for a
specific Dog. It is intended to be worn on a Collar or harness.
2.15. "Dog Shelter" means a facility designated by the City Manager for the safekeeping,
and holding of impounded, or seized Dogs as set out within this Bylaw.
2.16. "Guard Dog" means a Dog that is trained and used for the prevention of unlawful entry
of a business premises in any commercial or industrial area by unauthorized Persons.
2.17. "Guide Dogs" means a Dog trained as a guide Dog for a blind Person and having the
qualifications prescribed by the regulations.
2.18. "Highway" means any thoroughfare, street, road, trail, avenue, parkway, driveway,
viaduct, lane, alley, square, bridge, causeway, trestle way or other place or any part
of any of them, whether publicly or privately owned, that the public is ordinarily entitled
or permitted to use for the passage or parking of vehicles and includes:
2.18.1. A Sidewalk, including a boulevard adjacent to the Sidewalk;
2.18.2. If a ditch lies adjacent to and parallel with the Roadway, the ditch; and
2.18.3. If a Highway right of way is contained between fences or between a fence
and one side of the Roadway, all the land between the fences, or all the land
between the fence and the edge of the Roadway, as the case may be, but
does not include a place declared by regulation not to be a Highway.
2.19. "In Heat" means a recurring period of sexual receptivity in many female mammals.
2.20. "Justice" has the meaning as defined in the Provincial Offences Procedure Act, RSA
2000, c P-34.
2.21. "Leash" means material capable of leading or restraining the Dog on which it is being
used.
2.22. "Licence" means a Licence issued pursuant to this Bylaw.
Bylaw 3371-25 - Dog Control and Licensing Bylaw
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2.23. "Livestock" includes, but is not limited to:
2.23.1. horse, mule, ass, swine, emu, ostrich, llama, alpaca, sheep, or goat;
2.23.2. domestically reared or kept deer, reindeer, moose, elk, or bison; farm-bred,
fur-bearing animals including foxes and mink; animals of the bovine species;
2.23.3. animals of the avian species including chickens, turkeys, duck, geese, or
pheasants;
2.23.4. bison; farm-bred, fur-bearing animals including foxes and mink; animals of
the bovine species; and
2.23.5. all other Animals that are kept for agricultural purposes, but does not include
Cats or Dogs.
2.24. "Medical Officer of Health" means the Medical Officer of Health as appointed and
defined in the Public Health Act, RSA 2000, c P-37.
2.25. "Motor Vehicle" has the meaning given in the Traffic Safety Act, RSA 2000, c T-6.
2.26. "Muzzle" means a humane device of sufficient strength placed over a Dog's mouth to
prevent it from biting.
2.27. "Nuisance Dog" means a Dog declared to be a Nuisance Dog by the City Manager in
accordance with this Bylaw.
2.28. "Off Leash Area" means an area designated by Council, where Dogs are permitted to
be off leash, or designated areas where organized and controlled Dog events may be
held by causing signs to be posted in such areas indicating such designations.
2.29. "Over Limit Permit" means a permit granted under the authority of this Bylaw that
allows a Person to keep at their residence more than the maximum number of Dogs
permitted by this Bylaw.
2.30. "Owner" means any Person:
2.30.1. named on a Licence; or
2.30.2. who has legal title to a Dog;
2.30.3. who has possession or custody, or care and control of a Dog, either
temporarily or permanently; or
2.30.4. who harbours a Dog or allows the Dog to remain on their premises.
2.31. "Peace Officer" means a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, a member
of the Camrose Police Service, or a special constable.
2.32. "Person" means any individual, firm, partnership, association, corporation, society,
trustee, executor, administrator or other legal representative.
2.33. "Playground" means that portion of a public park in the City that contains playground
equipment such as sandboxes, slides, teeter totters, monkey bars, and other
equipment for the use and enjoyment of children.
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2.34. "School Ground" means property within the City owned or operated by any school
district or private school.
2.35. "Service Dog" has the meaning as defined in the Service Dogs Act, SA 2007, c S-7.5,
and includes a Dog that is in training to become Service Dog but does not include
Dogs that are no longer actively being used as a Service Dog.
2.36. "Severe Injury" means any injury that requires medical attention except wound
cleaning and basic first aid and includes: wounds requiring sutures or surgery,
disfiguring or scarring lacerations, broken bones, severe sprains or any other similar
Severe Injury.
2.37. "Sports Field" means land within the City and controlled by the City which is set apart
and used for the playing of a sport including, but not limited to, baseball diamonds,
field hockey, tennis or basketball courts, rugby, soccer, athletic fields, or football fields.
2.38. "Vicious Dog" means any Dog:
2.38.1. which in the opinion of the City Manager has a propensity to attack, to cause
injury or to otherwise endanger the safety of a Person or other Dog, Wildlife,
Livestock, or other domesticated household pets; or
2.38.2. that has been declared to be a Vicious or Dangerous Dog pursuant to a
Bylaw of another municipality; or
2.38.3. that has been the subject of an order issued by a Justice pursuant to the
Dangerous Dogs Act, RSA 2000, c D-3.
2.39. "Violation Tag" means a tag or similar document issued by the City that alleges an
offence and provides a Person with the opportunity to pay an amount to the City in lieu
of prosecution for the offence.
2.40. "Violation Ticket" means a ticket issued under Part 2 of the Provincial Offences
Procedure Act, RSA 2000, c. P-34.
2.41. "Wildlife" has the meaning as defined in the Wildlife Act, RSA 2000, c W-10.
3. Purpose and Application
3.1.
A reference in this Bylaw to a bylaw, statute or regulation means the statute or
regulation as amended, replaced or in effect from time to time.
3.2.
In this Bylaw, words used in the singular shall include the plural and the plural the
singular, except where the context requires otherwise.
3.3.
Words in this Bylaw have the same meaning as those set out in the Municipal
Government Act, except where otherwise defined in this Bylaw.
3.4.
The headings in this Bylaw are for convenience only and must not be construed as
defining or in away limiting the scope or intent of the provisions of this Bylaw.
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4. Number of Dogs
4.1.
No Person shall keep or permit to be kept more than three (3) Dogs over the age of
six (6) months on any parcel of land or real property within the City, unless:
4.1.1.
that Person holds a valid Business Licence from the City for one or more of
the following purposes:
4.1.1.1. the care and treatment of Dogs operated and in charge of a
veterinarian; and/or
4.1.1.2. the operation of a training or obedience class for Dogs; and/or
4.1.1.3. the operation of a pet store or kennel;
or
4.1.2.
that Person has applied for and has been approved for an Over Limit Permit.
4.2.
An Owner seeking to obtain or renew an Over Limit Permit must submit a completed
application to the City Manager annually, no later than January 31 of the current year,
using the form prescribed by the City Manager.
4.3.
An application for an Over Limit Permit shall include the following information:
4.3.1.
Owner's full name, residential address, email address, and telephone
number;
4.3.2.
civic address where the Dogs shall be kept;
4.3.2.1. if the Owner is not the registered owner of the property,
authorization from the registered owner(s) shall be required.
4.3.3.
purpose for keeping the Dogs;
4.3.4.
breed, sex, and age of each Dogs; and
4.3.5.
a description of the measures the Owner will implement to minimize noise
and mitigate nuisance to neighbouring properties.
4.4.
The City Manager may deny or cancel an Over Limit Permit. This decision shall be
based on, but is not limited to, the following considerations:
4.4.1.
review of bylaw/animal related complaints associated to the involved
address;
4.4.2.
site inspection;
4.4.3.
review of neighbourhood inquiries or complaints to the impact of the Over
Limit Permit in the area.
4.4.4.
any false or misleading information on the application form;
4.4.5.
if the Owner or a Person residing or allowed to remain at the residence is
charged or convicted of animal related offence(s).
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4.5.
An appeal of the cancellation or denial of an Over Limit Permit must be submitted in
writing to the City Manager, along with any applicable fee, within ten (10) business
days of receiving the decision, in accordance with Section 46.1 of this Bylaw.
5. Licensing
5.1.
An Owner of a Dog shall obtain a Licence for a Dog.
5.2.
An Owner of a Nuisance Dog shall obtain a Licence for a Nuisance Dog.
5.3.
An Owner of a Vicious Dog shall obtain a Licence for a Vicious Dog.
6. Licensing Requirements
6.1.
The Owner of a Dog shall:
6.1.1.
be eighteen (18) years of age or older;
6.1.2.
obtain a City Licence for their Dog within fifteen (15) days following the Dog
having attained six (6) months of age, or acquiring possession of the Dog,
whichever date is later;
6.1.3.
ensure all Dogs wear a Dog Tag purchased for that Dog when the Dog is off
the Owner's property;
6.1.4.
notify the City of any change in information provided in the application for a
Licence under this Bylaw.
6.2.
When applying for a Licence under this Bylaw, the Owner shall provide the following:
6.2.1.
the name, telephone number, and email of the Owner, or the Person
responsible if the Owner is a corporate body;
6.2.2.
a physical description of the Dog, including name, breed, gender and age;
6.2.3.
information establishing whether the Dog is spayed or neutered;
6.2.4.
if the Dog is the subject of any Vicious Dog order by the City Manager, a
Justice or any other municipality;
6.2.5.
any other information which the City Manager may require; and
6.2.6.
the Licence fee for each Dog as set out in the City's Annual Fees and
Charges Bylaw.
6.3.
Every Owner of a Dog that is new to the City where the Dog has been declared Vicious
or Dangerous in another municipality must provide documentation or proof of the same
in a form satisfactory to the City and Licence such Dog with the City accordingly and
provide liability insurance of one million dollars for such Dog.
6.4.
No Person shall give false information when applying for a Licence pursuant to this
Bylaw.
6.5.
Upon licensing a Dog as required by this Bylaw, the Owner shall be issued with a Dog
Tag.
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6.6.
A Dog Tag issued pursuant to this Bylaw is non-transferable and non-refundable.
6.7.
Upon losing a Dog Tag, an Owner of a Dog shall obtain a replacement Dog Tag for a
fee as set out in the City's Annual Fees and Charges Bylaw.
6.8.
Effective January 1, 2026, a Dog Licence is valid for the lifetime of the Dog and does
not need to be renewed unless the Dog is classified as a Nuisance or Dangerous Dog.
6.9.
Nuisance Dogs and Vicious Dogs shall be licenced annually.
7. Exceptions to Licence Requirements
7.1.
A police service member shall not be required to obtain a Licence for their police Dogs
but Owners of those Dogs are required to comply with the other provisions of this
Bylaw except where the offence or other provisions of this Bylaw are contrary to the
functions performed by those Dogs, or an enactment, permit, order or licence
governing police Dogs exempts those Dogs from the application of provisions of this
Bylaw.
7.2.
Where an individual with a disability is the Owner of a Service Dog trained and used
to assist such individual, if that individual provides to the satisfaction of the City
Manager identification that identifies the individual and the individual's Service Dog,
then there shall be no fee payable by the Owner for a Licence for the Service Dog as
set out in the City's Annual Fees and Charges Bylaw.
7.3.
No Dog Licence shall be required for a Dog that is accompanying a Person who is
visiting the City, if they do not stay in the City more than thirty (30) days. The Owner
must be able to produce proof that they are visiting the City not more than thirty (30)
days. Notwithstanding the foregoing, all other provisions of this Bylaw shall still apply
to Dogs referenced in this Section. This includes Dogs brought into the City for the
purposes of a competition, parade, fair, exhibition, or other similar event.
8. Revocation of Licence
8.1.
The City Manager or Peace Officer may revoke any Licence pursuant to this Bylaw if:
8.1.1.
the Owner fails to comply with any conditions of the Licence;
8.1.2.
the Licence was issued on the basis of incorrect or false information;
8.1.3.
the Licence was issued in error; or
8.1.4.
the Owner breaches a provision of this Bylaw.
9. General Care and Control
9.1.
The Owner of a Dog must not allow it to be At Large.
9.2.
The Owner of a Dog must not allow it to be in a public place unless:
9.2.1.
the Dog is wearing a Leash; and
9.2.2.
the Leash is under the effective control of a Person competent to restrain the
Dog.
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9.3.
An Owner or any other Person having care or control of a Dog is not required to have
the Dog on a Leash in an area of the City which has been designated as an Off Leash
Area, and the Owner of a Dog in an Off Leash Area shall:
9.3.1.
ensure that such Dog is always under control of the Owner;
9.3.2.
not allow or permit more than four (4) Dogs in their custody in an Off Leash
Area;
9.3.3.
be physically capable of controlling and restraining all Dogs in their custody
in an Off Leash Area; and
9.3.4.
carry an appropriate Leash for all Dogs in their custody, on their Person while
in an Off Leash Area.
9.4.
No Owner or any other Person having care or control of a Dog In Heat, a Dog suffering
from a Communicable Disease, a Guard Dog, or a Vicious Dog shall permit the Dog
to be in an Off Leash Area at any time.
9.5.
A Peace Officer may, upon the Owner or any other Person having care or control of a
Dog being in contravention of any provision of this part, order the Owner of an off-
Leash Dog in an Off Leash Area, to:
9.5.1.
restrain the Dog by means of a Leash; or
9.5.2.
remove the Dog from an Off Leash Area;
9.5.3.
or both.
9.6.
An Owner or any other Person having care or control of a Dog who fails to comply with
an order made by a Peace Officer pursuant to this Section to restrain or remove a Dog
is guilty of an offence.
9.7.
City Dog parks are shared, multi-use facilities and Owners or any other Person having
care or control of a Dog should ensure that the following rules are adhered to:
9.7.1.
respect to other Dogs and Owners;
9.7.2.
Dogs are to be wearing a current Dog Tag.
9.7.3.
Dogs must be accompanied by their Owner or any other Person having care
or control of the Dog who must be able to maintain effective verbal control of
the Dog at all times;
9.7.4.
Dogs must be both Dog and human friendly;
9.7.5.
Dogs must be a minimum of six months of age, immunized and
spayed/neutered;
9.7.6.
a Leash not exceeding two meters (six feet) must be carried at all times;
9.7.7.
the Owner or Person having care or control of the Dog must dispose of Dog's
waste in designated containers;
9.7.8.
Guard Dogs and Vicious Dogs are not permitted in these areas; and
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9.7.9.
Owners are responsible for the behaviour, welfare and safety of their Dog(s)
while using these areas. Owners are personally liable for any damages or
injury their Dog inflicts.
9.8.
With the exception of Service or Guide Dogs, no Dog shall be permitted to remain in
any place as prohibited by posted signage.
9.9.
Guide Dogs and Service Dogs shall be able to accompany a visually impaired or
disabled Person in all places where the public is normally allowed to go.
9.10. The Owner or any other Person having care or control of a Dog shall not leave the
Dog unattended in a Motor Vehicle unless:
9.10.1. the Dog is restrained in a manner that prevents contact between the Dog
and any member of the public; and
9.10.2. the Dog has suitable ventilation. For the purposes of this Bylaw suitable
ventilation is the provision and maintenance of air flow and air quality
conditions that ensures the wellbeing of a Dog, preventing any form of
distress.
9.11. The Owner or any other Person having care or control of a Dog shall not leave a Dog
unattended in a Motor Vehicle if the weather conditions are not suitable for
containment and put the Dog's well-being and safety at risk.
10. Securing Animals in Vehicles
10.1. No Person shall allow a Dog to be riding outside of the passenger cab of a Motor
Vehicle on a Highway, regardless of whether the Motor Vehicle is moving or parked.
10.2. A Person may allow a Dog to be outside the passenger cab of a Motor Vehicle, if the
Dog, is:
10.2.1. in a fully enclosed cargo area of the bed of a Motor Vehicle;
10.2.2. contained in a ventilated kennel or similar device securely fastened to the
cargo bed of the Motor Vehicle; or
10.2.3. securely tethered in such a manner that the Dog is not standing on bare
metal, cannot jump or be thrown from the Motor Vehicle, is not in danger of
strangulation, and cannot reach beyond the outside edges of the Motor
Vehicle.
10.3. The Owner of a Motor Vehicle who fails to secure a Dog in a Motor Vehicle in
accordance with this Bylaw may be charged with an offence unless the Owner of the
Motor Vehicle satisfies a Peace Officer or Designated Officer that:
10.3.1. The Motor Vehicle was not being driven or was not being parked by the
Owner; or that the Person driving or parking the Motor Vehicle at the time of
the offence did so without the Owner's express or implied consent.
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11. Dogs In Heat
11.1. The Owner or any other Person having care or control of a Dog that is In Heat shall
confine the Dog indoors within a building or enclosure which will prevent the escape
of the Dog or entry of other Dogs until the Dog is no longer In Heat.
11.2. The Owner or any other Person having care or control of a Dog that is In Heat may
allow the Dog to leave the building or enclosure to urinate, defecate, or exercise if the
Owner always maintains the Dog under care and control, and immediately returns the
Dog to the building or enclosure upon completion of urinating, defecating or exercising.
The Dog must always remain on the Owner's property.
11.3. The Owner or any other Person having care or control of a Dog that is In Heat shall
not allow or permit the Dog to be at any location where the Dog may be a source of
attraction to other Dogs.
12. Communicable Diseases
12.1. An Owner or any other Person having care or control of a Dog which is suffering from
a Communicable Disease shall:
12.1.1. not permit the Dog to be in any public place;
12.1.2. not permit the Dog to be in contact with or in proximity to any other Dog;
12.1.3. keep the Dog confined or restrained; and
12.1.4. immediately report the matter to the Medical Officer of Health or the Office
of Chief Provincial Veterinarian as the case may be, and the City Manager.
13. Removing Excrement
13.1. If a Dog defecates on any property other than the property of its Owner, the Owner or
any other Person having care or control of a Dog shall remove such feces immediately.
13.2. If a Dog is on any property other than the property of its Owner, the Owner or any
other Person having care or control of a Dog shall have in their possession a suitable
means of facilitating the removal of the Dog's feces.
13.3. No Owner or occupant of a Property shall have or allow in or on the property, the
accumulation of Dog feces to such an extent that is reasonably likely to annoy or pose
a health risk to others.
14. Noise
14.1. The Owner or any other Person having care or control of a Dog shall ensure it does
not bark or howl in a manner that is reasonably likely to annoy or disturb the peace of
others.
14.2. In determining whether barking or howling is reasonably likely to annoy or disturb the
peace of others consideration may be given, but is not limited, to the:
14.2.1. proximity of the property where the Dog resides;
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14.2.2. duration of the barking;
14.2.3. time of the day and day of the week;
14.2.4. nature and use of the surrounding area; and
14.2.5. any effect of the barking.
14.3. A Peace Officer may request a Person complaining about a Dog excessively barking,
howling, or engaging in any other activity that causes noise to keep a log of all
occurrences for a period specified by a Peace Officer. Any Person complaining about
a Dog excessively barking, howling, or engaging in any other activity that causes
noise, when requested shall submit a statement in writing to a Peace Officer.
15. Threatening Behaviours
15.1. The Owner or any other Person having care or control of a Dog shall ensure that such
Dog does not:
15.1.1. chase other Dogs, Wildlife, Livestock or other domesticated household pets;
15.1.2. chase bicycles, Motor Vehicles, or other vehicles;
15.1.3. chase a Person;
15.1.4. Bite, Attack, or cause damage to property, Dogs, Wildlife, Livestock, or other
domesticated household pets, whether on the property of the Owner or not;
15.1.5. cause Severe Injury to a Dog, Wildlife, Livestock, or other domesticated
household pets;
15.1.6. cause death to a Dog, Wildlife, Livestock, or other domesticated household
pets;
15.1.7. Bite, Attack or cause Severe Injury to a Person or Persons whether on the
property of the Owner or not, unless the Person Attacked is a trespasser of
the property Owner; and
15.1.8. commit any other act that injures a Person or Persons whether on the
property of the Owner or not.
15.2. No Owner shall use or direct a Dog to Attack, chase, harass, or threaten a Person,
Dog, Wildlife, Livestock, or other domesticated household pets.
16. Nuisance Dogs
16.1. The City Manager may declare a Dog to be a Nuisance Dog upon fifteen (15) days'
written notice to the Owner.
16.2. In declaring a Dog to be a Nuisance Dog, the City Manager, shall consider any
sections of this Bylaw that have been contravened by such Dog and shall also take
into consideration any other matter which, in the opinion of the City Manager, is
relevant.
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16.3. The City Manager may impose any of the following conditions on the Owner of the
Nuisance Dog as deemed appropriate by way of a Nuisance Dog Licence:
16.3.1. that the Owner keep the Nuisance Dog indoors or secured in a fully enclosed
outdoor pen;
16.3.2. that the Owner ensure the Nuisance Dog is muzzled while outdoors;
16.3.3. that the Owner undertake repairs to the property where the Nuisance Dog
resides to ensure compliance with this Bylaw;
16.3.4. that the Owner of the Nuisance Dog complete a behavioural modification
course specified by the City Manager; and/or
16.3.5. any other condition the City Manager deems reasonable.
16.4. The declaration of a Dog as a Nuisance Dog shall be reviewed annually by the City
Manager, and may be continued, with or without conditions, or revoked.
16.5. An Owner shall not contravene any conditions of a Nuisance Dog Licence.
16.6. The Nuisance Dog declaration may be appealed in writing and with payment of any
associated fee to the City Manager within ten (10) business days of receiving the
notice pursuant to Section 46.1 of this Bylaw.
17. Declaration of Vicious Dog
17.1. If a Peace Officer believes on reasonable and probable grounds that a Dog has:
17.1.1. Attacked or Bitten any Person or Dog, Wildlife, Livestock or other
domesticated household pets; or
17.1.2. been previously determined to be a Vicious Dog or Dangerous Dog under
the Dangerous Dog Act, R.S.A 2000 c D-3, or similar legislation from another
Municipality, Province, or Country;
the Peace Officer may seize and impound the dog and/or recommend to the
City Manager that the Dog be declared Vicious.
17.2. If the City Manager has declared a Dog to be Vicious, written notification shall be
provided to the Dog's Owner advising them:
17.2.1. that the Dog has been declared a Vicious Dog;
17.2.2. of any conditions imposed regarding the keeping of the Dog, effective upon
the Owner's receipt of the notice; and
17.2.3. that if the Vicious Dog is not kept in accordance with Section 20 of this Bylaw,
the Owner will be fined, or subject to enforcement action pursuant to this
Bylaw.
17.3. The City Manager may order the Owner of a Dog alleged to be a Vicious Dog to
surrender the Dog to a Peace Officer and the Dog shall be taken and held in a Dog
Shelter at the Owner's cost pending the outcome of the hearing and any appeals.
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17.4. The City Manager may allow the Owner to keep possession of a Dog alleged to be a
Vicious Dog, pending the outcome of the hearing and any related appeals, with contain
and control conditions, which in the opinion of the City Manager, ensures the safety of
the public.
18. Right of Appeals
18.1. A Person who receives a Vicious Dog notice may file a written appeal with the City
Manager to request that Council reconsider the declaration or imposing of conditions
within ten (10) business days of receiving the declaration. The written appeal shall
contain reasons why Council shall carry out a review and provide any information that
is deemed necessary to help Council fulfil such a review. Council shall review the
Person's written request within thirty (30) calendar days after the City Manager has
received it.
18.2. Upon receipt of the written request for reconsideration by a Person the reconsideration
will follow the below process:
18.2.1. The City Manager shall prepare and forward a report to both the Person and
Council. The report will set out the reasons for the City Manager's decision
and will attach the Person's written request for reconsideration;
18.2.2. Following the preparation of the report, the City Manager will set a date and
time for the Person to appear before Council to be heard regarding the City
Manager's decision and will inform the Person of the date and time of such
appearance in writing;
18.2.3. Upon hearing the evidence, Council shall make an order declaring the Dog
as a Vicious Dog if Council finds that the Dog has caused Severe Injury to a
Person, whether on public or private property, or if the circumstances
otherwise warrant declaring the Dog to be a Vicious Dog.
18.2.4. In addition to or as an alternative to an order under Section 18.2.3 upon
hearing the evidence, Council can declare the Dog to be a Vicious Dog and
order the Dog destroyed if in the opinion of Council the Dog is likely to cause
serious damage or injury to Persons, property, or other Dogs, Wildlife,
Livestock, or other domesticated household pets, taking into account the
following factors:
18.2.4.1. whether the Dog, when unprovoked, has shown a tendency to
pursue, chase, or approach in a menacing fashion any Person or
Persons or other Dogs, Wildlife, Livestock or other domesticated
household pets upon the street, Sidewalk, or on any public or
private property;
18.2.4.2. whether the Dog has attempted to Bite, or has bitten any Person or
Dog, Wildlife, Livestock, or other domesticated household pets;
18.2.4.3. whether the Dog has injured, Attacked or caused Severe Injury to
any Person or Dog, Wildlife, Livestock, or other domesticated
household pets;
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18.2.4.4. the Aggression Scale Classification made by a Peace Officer
pursuant to Section 19.1;
18.2.4.5. the circumstances surrounding any previous Biting, Attacking, or
injuring incidents; and
18.2.4.6. whether the Dog has caused death to another Dog, Wildlife,
Livestock, or other domesticated household pet.
18.2.5. After hearing the evidence, Council shall review the decision proposed by
the City Manager and either confirm or set aside the declaration on terms
Council sees fit.
18.2.6. Council will provide the Person written notice of their decision.
18.3. Council's decision under this part shall be considered final and binding.
18.4. During the review period and until the final disposition has been given, the Dog Owner
shall ensure that the Dog subject to the Vicious Dog declaration is muzzled at all times
when off the property of the Owner.
18.5. A Vicious Dog order pursuant to this Bylaw continues to apply if the Vicious Dog is
sold, given, transferred to a new Owner and the new Owner must be made aware of
the order.
18.6. The Owner of a Vicious Dog must immediately notify the City Manager upon relocating
in the City. The City Manager may take cognizance of an order issued in another
jurisdiction and direct that the order applies within the City.
18.7. The Owner of a Dog alleged to be a Vicious Dog shall comply with a surrender order
made by the City Manager, or any contain and control conditions prescribed by the
City Manager pursuant to this Bylaw.
19. Aggression Scale Classification
19.1. A Peace Officer investigating a complaint involving the threatening behaviour of a Dog
shall classify the behaviour by means of reference to the Dr. Ian Dunbar's Aggression
Scale, as set out in Schedule "C" of this Bylaw.
20. Vicious Dog Regulations
20.1. The Owner of a Vicious Dog shall within five (5) business days after the Dog has been
declared a Vicious Dog:
20.1.1. have a Licenced veterinarian tattoo or implant an electronic identification
microchip in or on the Vicious Dog which identifies the Dog with a unique
identifier to the Dog;
20.1.2. provide the information contained on the tattoo or in the microchip to the City;
and
20.1.3. have the Vicious Dog spayed or neutered if such procedure has not yet been
carried out on the Dog.
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20.2. The Owner of a Vicious Dog shall:
20.2.1. allow a Peace Officer to photograph the Dog, on demand;
20.2.2. within two (2) business days notify the City should the Vicious Dog be sold,
gifted, or transferred to another Person or die;
20.2.3. with two (2) business days of moving into a new residence, provide the City
with the Owner's new address;
20.2.4. remain liable for the actions of the Vicious Dog until formal notification of
sale, gift, or transfer is given to the City; and
20.2.5. immediately advise the Peace Officer or City Manager that the Dog is At
Large or has Bitten or Attacked any Person, Dog, Animal, Wildlife, Livestock,
or other domesticated household pets.
20.3. With regards to the behaviour of a Vicious Dog, the Owner of a Vicious Dog shall:
20.3.1. ensure that such Vicious Dog does not engage in any threatening behaviours
prohibited by this Bylaw;
20.3.2. ensure that such Vicious Dog does not damage or destroy public or private
property;
20.3.3. ensure that such Vicious Dog is not At Large; and
20.3.4. forthwith notify the City of the Vicious Dog being At Large in the event of
escape.
20.4. The Owner of a Vicious Dog shall ensure that when such Vicious Dog is confined
indoors on the property of the Owner such Vicious Dog is under the control of a Person
eighteen (18) years of age or older.
20.5. The Owner of a Vicious Dog shall ensure that when such Vicious Dog is confined
outdoors on the property of the Owner such Vicious Dog is:
20.5.1. securely Muzzled and under the control of a Person eighteen (18) years of
age or older by means of a Leash not exceeding one (1) meter in length in a
manner that prevents it from being in contravention of this Bylaw; or
20.5.2. in a locked pen or other structure, constructed to prevent the escape of the
Vicious Dog, and capable of preventing the entry of any Person not in control
of the Vicious Dog. The locked pen or structure shall:
20.5.2.1. have secure sides and a secure top, and if it has no bottom secured
to the sides, the sides must be embedded in the ground to a
minimum depth of thirty (30) centimetres;
20.5.2.2. provide the Vicious Dog with shelter from the elements;
20.5.2.3. be of the minimum dimensions of one and one-half (1.5) meters by
three (3) meters and be a minimum one and one-half (1.5) meters
in height; and
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20.5.2.4. not be within one (1) meter of the property line or within five (5)
meters of a neighbouring dwelling unit.
20.6. The Owner of a Vicious Dog shall always ensure that, when off the property of the
Owner, such Vicious Dog is securely:
20.6.1. Muzzled;
20.6.2. harnessed or on a Leash with a length that shall not exceed one (1) meter
and in a manner that prevents it from being in contravention of this Bylaw,
as well as preventing damage to the public and private property; and
20.6.3. under the control of a competent Person eighteen (18) years of age or older.
20.7. The Owner of a Vicious Dog shall, within five (5) business days of the date of the order
declaring the Dog to be a Vicious Dog, display a warning sign on their premises
warning of the presence of the Vicious Dog in the form illustrated in Schedule "D" of
this Bylaw, such sign shall:
20.7.1. be a minimum of 8" x 10" in size;
20.7.2. be placed at each entrance to the premises where the Vicious Dog is kept
and, on the pen, or other structure in which the Vicious Dog is confined; and
20.7.3. be posted to be clearly visible and capable of being read from any adjacent
boulevard, sidewalk, or Highway.
20.8. A Person must not deface or remove a sign that is required to be displayed under
Section 20.7.
20.9. The Owner of a Vicious Dog shall, within ten (10) business days of the date of the
order:
20.9.1. obtain and maintain in force a policy of liability insurance in a form
satisfactory to the City Manager providing third party liability coverage in a
minimum amount of one million ($1,000,000) dollars for injuries caused by
the Vicious Dog; and
20.9.2. the liability policy shall contain a provision requiring the insurer to
immediately notify the City, in writing, should the policy expire or be
cancelled or terminated; and
20.9.3. upon cancellation, expiry, or termination of the liability policy, the Dog's
Licence is null and void.
20.10. If the Owner of a Vicious Dog is unwilling or unable to comply with the requirements
of this Section, the Dog may be seized and impounded for ten (10) business days,
after which time the Vicious Dog may be euthanized in a manner approved by a
licenced veterinarian.
20.11. In addition to the remedies set forth in this Bylaw, if the City Manager or Peace Officer
determines that a Vicious Dog is not being kept in accordance with this Bylaw, they
may make application for an order directing that such Dog be kept in accordance with
this Bylaw by the Owner, seize the Dog, or that the Dog be euthanized.
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21. Notice of Contain and Control
21.1. The City Manager may allow an Owner to keep possession of a Dog alleged to have
been engaged in any threatening behaviour as set out in this Bylaw by serving notice
with contain and control conditions which, in the opinion of the City Manager, ensures
the safety of the public.
21.2. The contain and control conditions shall be reviewed annually by the City Manager,
considering any further contraventions of this Bylaw, and may be continued, revised,
or revoked.
21.3. The Owner of a Dog shall comply with contain and control conditions set out in a notice
issued by the City Manager pursuant to this Bylaw.
22. Seizure and Disposition
22.1. A Peace Officer may seize, retain, and take to a Dog Shelter any Dog, Nuisance Dog,
or Vicious Dog:
22.1.1. which is found running At Large;
22.1.2. which is alleged to have engaged in any threatening behaviours as set out
in this Bylaw;
22.1.3. pending the outcome of an application to declare the Dog to be a Vicious
Dog or to destroy the Dog;
22.1.4. which is required to be impounded pursuant to the provisions of any
provincial or federal legislation; or
22.1.5. which has been left unsupervised while tethered or tied on public property or
private property not owned by the Dog's Owner or any other Person having
care or control of a Dog.
22.2. A Peace Officer may seize and impound any Dog alleged to have seriously injured or
killed a Person, Dog, Wildlife, Livestock, or other domesticated household pet.
22.2.1. A Dog seized pursuant to Section 22.2 may not be impounded for more than
twenty-one (21) calendar days unless Court proceedings for a destruction or
other order with respect to the Dog are commenced within that time.
22.2.2. Every Dog seized under this Bylaw shall as soon as practical, be taken to
the prescribed Dog Shelter.
22.3. The Owner shall be responsible for all fees associated with the Dog being impounded.
22.4. A Peace Officer, may enter onto any property surrounding any building, whether or
not such property is enclosed by a fence or other such enclosure and seize any Dog
which has been observed running At Large or is alleged to have been exhibiting
threatening behaviour as set out in this Bylaw and to take such reasonable measures
necessary to subdue any such Dog, including the use of tranquilizer equipment and
other capture devices, and take such Dog to a Dog Shelter.
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22.5. Subject to the entry notice provisions of the Municipal Government Act, a Designated
Officer of the City, bearing proper identification, may enter a premises to conduct an
inspection in order to determine whether or not this Bylaw or an order issued pursuant
to this Bylaw is being complied with and, where it is determined that this Bylaw or an
order has been contravened, may, with or without the assistance of a Peace Officer,
seize and remove from the premises a Dog and take the Dog to a Dog Shelter.
22.6. A Person who takes control of any Dog running At Large, Nuisance Dog, or Vicious
Dog, shall forthwith notify a Peace Officer and provide any required information and
surrender the Dog to a Peace Officer at the request of the City Manager or Peace
Officer.
23. Obstruction and Interference
23.1. No Person, whether that Person is the Owner of a Dog, Nuisance Dog, or Vicious Dog
which is being or has been pursued or seized shall:
23.1.1. interfere with or attempt to obstruct a Peace Officer who is attempting to
seize or who has seized a Dog which is subject to seizure;
23.1.2. open any vehicle in which the seized Dog has been placed; or
23.1.3. remove, or attempt to remove, from the Dog Shelter and/or the possession
of a Peace Officer the Dog which has been seized.
23.2. No Person shall:
23.2.1. untie, loosen, or otherwise free a Dog which has been tied or otherwise
restrained;
23.2.2. negligently or wilfully open a gate, door or other opening in a fence or
enclosure in which a Dog has been confined and thereby allow the Dog to
be At Large in the City;
23.2.3. entice a Dog to run At Large;
23.2.4. tease a Dog caught or confined in an enclosed space;
23.2.5. throw or poke any object into an enclosed space when a Dog is caught or
confined therein;
23.2.6. provide false information to a Peace Officer; or
23.2.7. obstruct or hinder a Peace Officer in the execution of their powers and duties
pursuant to this Bylaw.
23.3. Section 23.2 shall not apply to a Peace Officer who is attempting to seize or who has
seized a Dog which is subject to seizure pursuant to this Bylaw.
24. Notification to Owner
24.1. If a Peace Officer knows or can ascertain the name of the Owner of any seized Dog,
they shall serve the Owner with a copy of the notice, either personally or by leaving it
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with any adult Person at, or by mailing it to or by leaving it at, the last known address
of the Owner.
24.2. An Owner of a Dog to whom a notice is mailed is deemed to have received a notice
within seven (7) calendar days from the date it is mailed. A notice personally delivered
to the Owner or any adult Person at the last known address of the Owner shall be
deemed to be served on the day of service.
25. Dog Shelter
25.1. Council authorizes the establishment, maintenance, and operation of facilities for the
impounding and seizure of Dogs at such place or places as it directs.
25.2. Council authorizes the City Manager to enter into an agreement to maintain, operate,
and regulate the conduct of a Dog Shelter.
25.3. The Dog Shelter shall:
25.3.1. receive and impound any Dog seized under the provisions of this Bylaw;
25.3.2. keep a record of such Dog on the form approved by the City Manager;
25.3.3. ensure that a Dog that is impounded is provided with sufficient food and
potable water to maintain the health and comfort of the Dog;
25.3.4. ensure that no Dog, while impounded, is mistreated; and
25.3.5. provide the services of a veterinarian, as soon as practical, for any Dog
which appears to be ill or injured.
25.4. To ensure the protection of the facility and the health and welfare of Dogs or other
Animals within the facility, the Dog Shelter may take the Dog to a registered
veterinarian who may examine, vaccinate, and treat any Dog in the Dog Shelter.
25.5. A Peace Officer or Dog Shelter shall, if the Dog impounded is wearing a Dog Tag or
has any other identification, make an effort to notify the Owner that the Dog has been
impounded within twenty (24) hours. And give the Owner ten (10) business days to
claim the Dog before disposing of the Dog in accordance with this Bylaw.
25.6. The Dog Shelter may establish procedures for the adoption of Dogs that have been
kept in the timeframe in accordance with this Bylaw.
26. Reclaiming
26.1. The Owner of any seized Dog, Nuisance Dog, or Vicious Dog may reclaim the Dog,
Nuisance Dog, or Vicious Dog by:
26.1.1. paying any fees of impoundment, any care, subsistence, or veterinary
charges incurred as set out in the City's Annual Fees and Charges Bylaw;
26.1.2. obtaining the Licence for such Dog, Nuisance Dog, and Vicious Dog where
a Licence is required pursuant to this Bylaw;
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26.1.3. complying with any provisions which may be imposed in accordance with
this Bylaw.
26.2. Where a Dog, Nuisance Dog or Vicious Dog is claimed, the Owner shall provide proof
of ownership.
26.3. No Person shall purchase an impounded Dog and thereafter return it to the previous
Owner, unless they first report their intention to return the Dog to such Owner and
provide the name and address of said Owner to the City or Peace Officer.
27. Disposition of Dogs
27.1. The City Manager may:
27.1.1. receive Dogs into protective care at a Dog Shelter arising from an emergency
due to fire, flood, or other reasons;
27.1.2. retain a Dog temporarily at a Dog Shelter;
27.1.3. charge the Owner any fees, costs of impoundment, any care, subsistence,
or veterinary charges incurred as set out in the City's Annual Fees and
Charges Bylaw;
27.1.4. at the end of the protective care period, if no other arrangements are made
between the Owner and the City Manager or Peace Officer, or the Owner
cannot be ascertained, treat such Dog as a seized Dog; or
27.1.5. offer for sale, euthanize, or otherwise dispose of all unclaimed Dogs which
have been seized or deemed to be seized.
27.2. The City Manager shall not sell, euthanize, or otherwise dispose of a seized Dog until
a Dog is retained at the Dog Shelter for:
27.2.1. ten (10) business days after the Owner has received notice or is deemed to
have received notice that the Dog has been seized; or
27.2.2. three (3) business days, if the name and address of the Owner is not known.
27.3. The City Manager may retain a seized Dog for a longer period if in their opinion the
circumstances warrant the expense or there are reasonable grounds to believe that
the seized Dog is a continued danger to a Person, Animal, Wildlife, Livestock, or other
domesticated household pets, or property.
27.4. No action for damages shall be taken against the City or any Person acting under the
authority of this Bylaw in respect of the destruction, sale, or other disposal of any Dog
seized pursuant to this Bylaw.
27.5. All fees, costs of impoundment, any care, subsistence, or veterinary charges shall be
paid to the City or the Dog Shelter prior to release a Dog to an Owner.
28. Spay or Neuter
28.1. The City Manager, may, before selling an unclaimed seized Dog, require that the Dog
be spayed or neutered.
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29. Euthanizing Due to Injury
29.1. Any veterinarian, being properly and fully qualified as required by the Province of
Alberta, may destroy any Dog delivered to the veterinarian after injury to the Dog,
providing the injury is determined by the veterinarian to be serious enough in nature,
based upon their professional opinion, that the Dog must be destroyed immediately
and such costs of the destruction may be billed by the City, and the City is at liberty to
take all steps considered necessary to recover such costs from the Owner of the Dog.
30. Fee for Euthanizing
30.1. When the City Manager decides to euthanize a seized Dog pursuant to this Bylaw, the
Owner shall pay the costs of such euthanasia to the City.
31. Offence
31.1. Every Owner of a Dog or Person who contravenes any provision of this Bylaw by:
31.1.1. doing any act or thing which the Person is prohibited from doing; or
31.1.2. failing to do any act or thing the Person is required to do,
is guilty of an offence.
32. Violation Tag
32.1. If a Violation Tag is issued in respect of an offence the Violation Tag must specify the
fine amount established by this Bylaw for the offence.
32.2. For any offence involving a Motor Vehicle, a Violation Tag may be placed and left on
the Motor Vehicle itself.
33. Payment in Lieu of Prosecution
33.1. A Person who commits an offence may, if a Violation Tag is issued in respect of the
offence, pay the fine amount establish by this Bylaw for the offence, and if the amount
is paid on or before the required date, the Person will not be prosecuted for the
offence.
33.2. A Violation Tag may also set out a reduced fine amount established by this Bylaw as
an incentive for early payment conditional on the amount being paid on or before a
certain date.
33.3. For the purpose of this Bylaw, if a payment for a Violation Tag is received by the City
within seven (7) calendar days of the offence date, the fine amount of the offence as
set out in Schedule "A" may be reduced by 50%.
34. Violation Tickets and Penalties
34.1. Where a Peace Officer believes that a Person has contravened any provision of this
Bylaw, they may commence proceedings by issuing a Violation Ticket in accordance
with Provincial Offences Procedure Axt, RSA 2000, C P-34.
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34.2. A Peace Officer may issue, by personal service, a Violation Ticket, in a form as
approved by the City, to any Person alleged to have contravened any provision of this
Bylaw.
34.3. The penalty in lieu of prosecution payable in respect of a contravention of this Bylaw,
to be indicated on any such Violation Ticket issued, is the amount specified in
"Schedule "A" of this Bylaw.
34.4. The specified penalties payable in respect of a contravention of a provision of this
Bylaw is the amount shown on Schedule "A" of this Bylaw in respect of that provision.
Notwithstanding Schedule "A" a contravention of a provision of this Bylaw will attract
a minimum penalty of $100 and a maximum penalty of $10,000.
35. Nuisance Dog Fines
35.1. If a Dog has been declared to be a Nuisance Dog, and where, subsequent to the
declaration, any Owner who is in a contravention of any provision of this Bylaw in
respect of that Dog, the specified penalty payable in respect of the offence is double
that amount shown in Schedule "A" of this Bylaw in respect of that provision.
36. Vicious Dog Fines
36.1. Sections 33.3,34.3, 34.4 and 35.1 of this Bylaw do not apply to Vicious Dogs.
36.2. The specified and the minimum penalties on summary conviction in respect of a
contravention of this Bylaw with respect to Vicious Dogs shall be the amount as show
in Schedule "B" of this Bylaw regarding Vicious Dogs. Notwithstanding Schedule "B",
a contravention of this Bylaw relating to a Vicious Dog will attract a minimum penalty
of $500 and a maximum penalty of $10,000.
37. Escalating Penalties for Repeated Offences
37.1. Notwithstanding Sections 34.3, 34.4, 35.1 and 36.2 of this Bylaw:
37.1.1. where any Person has been in contravention of the same provision of this
Bylaw twice within one (1) twelve (12) month period, the specified or
minimum penalty payable in respect of the second offence is double the
amount shown in Schedule "B" of this Bylaw in respect of that provision; and
37.1.2. where any Person has been in contravention of the same provision of this
Bylaw three (3) or more times within one (1) twelve (12) month period, the
specified or minimum penalty payable in respect of the third or subsequent
offence is triple the amount shown in Schedule "B" of this Bylaw in respect
of that provision.
38. Continuing Offences
38.1. In the case of an offence that is of a continuing nature, a contravention constitutes a
separate offence in respect of each day, or part of a day, on which the offence
continues.
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39. Mandatory Court or Information
39.1. No provision of this Bylaw shall prevent any Peace Officer from issuing a Violation
Ticket requiring the Court appearance of the defendant, pursuant to the provisions of
Part 2 of the Provincial Offences Procedure Act, or from laying an information instead
of issuing a Violation Ticket.
40. Liability for Fees
40.1. The levying and payment of any fine or the imprisonment for any period provided in
this Bylaw shall not relieve a Person from the necessity of paying any fees, charges,
or costs from which they are liable under the provisions of this Bylaw.
41. Orders by a Justice
41.1. A Justice, after convicting an Owner of an offence under this Bylaw, in addition to the
penalties provided in this Bylaw, if the Justice considers the offence sufficiently
serious, may direct, order, or declare one or more of the following:
41.1.1. that the Owner prevent the Dog from doing any mischief or causing the
disturbance or nuisance complained of;
41.1.2. that the Owner have the Dog removed from the City;
41.1.3. that the Dog is a Vicious Dog;
41.1.4. that the Dog be humanely destroyed;
41.1.5. that the Owner be prohibited from owning any Dog for a specified period of
time; and/or
41.1.6. make such other order, direction, or declaration that in the opinion of the
Justice is necessary to protect the public, Animals, Wildlife, Livestock, or
other domesticated household pets from the Dog.
41.2. When a Justice considers making a direction, order or declaration pursuant to this
Section, the Justice shall consider the factors set out in Sections 1.1 through 18.9 of
this Bylaw.
42. Authorization
42.1. A Person to whom an authorization has been issued pursuant to this Bylaw, and any
Person carrying out an activity otherwise regulated, restricted or prohibited by this
Bylaw pursuant to such authorization, shall comply with any terms or conditions
forming part of the authorization.
42.2. A Person shall not make any false or misleading statement or provide any false or
misleading information to obtain an authorization pursuant to this Bylaw.
42.3. If any term or condition of an authorization issued pursuant to this Bylaw is
contravened or if a false or misleading statement or false or misleading information
was provided to obtain the authorization, the City Manager may immediately cancel
the authorization.
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43. Proof of Authorization
43.1. The onus of proving an authorization has been issued in relation to any activity
otherwise regulated, restricted or prohibited by this Bylaw is on the Person alleging
the existence of such an authorization on a balance of probabilities.
44. Proof of Licence
44.1. The onus of proving a Person has a valid and subsisting Licence is on the Person
alleging the existence of the Licence.
44.2. The onus of proving the age of a Dog is on the Person alleging the age.
45. Certified Copy of Records
45.1. A copy of the record of the City, certified by the City Manager for the same as a true
copy of the original, shall be admitted in evidence as prima facie proof of the facts
stated in the record without proof of the appointment or signature of the Person signing
it.
46. Review
46.1. An Owner may submit a written request to the City Manager within fourteen (14)
business days of the date of the written notice was received to request that Council
reconsider the City Manager's decision regarding:
46.1.1. any Licence or Permit issued under this Bylaw which has been revoked or
cancelled; or
46.1.2. the Dog being determined to be a Nuisance Dog.
46.2. The written request by the Owner shall contain reasons why Council should carry out
a review and provide any information that is deemed necessary to help Council fulfil
such review. Council shall review the Owner's written request within thirty (30)
calendar days after the City Manager has received it.
46.3. Upon receipt of the Owner's written request for reconsideration, the following process
shall apply:
46.3.1. The City Manager shall prepare and forward a report to both the Owner and
Council. The report will outline the reasons for the City Manager's decision
and will include the Owner's written request for reconsideration.
46.3.2. Following receipt of the City Manager's report, City Manager shall schedule
a date and time for the Owner to appear before Council to present their case
and shall provide written notice of the scheduled appearance to the Owner.
46.3.3. After hearing from the Owner and reviewing the City Manager's report,
Council shall confirm, modify, or overturn the City Manager's decision on
terms Council deems appropriate.
46.3.4. Council shall provide the Owner with written notice of its decision following
the review.
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46.4. Council's decision under this section shall be considered final and binding.
47. Powers of the City Manager
47.1. Without restricting any other power, duty or function granted by this Bylaw the City
Manager may:
47.1.1. carry out any inspections to determine compliance with this Bylaw;
47.1.2. take any steps or carry out any actions required to enforce this Bylaw;
47.1.3. take any steps or carry out any actions required to remedy a contravention
of this Bylaw;
47.1.4. establish areas where activities restricted by this Bylaw are permitted;
47.1.5. establish forms for the purposes of this Bylaw;
47.1.6. issue permits with such terms and conditions as are deemed appropriate;
47.1.7. establish the criteria to be met for a permit pursuant to this Bylaw; and
47.1.8. delegate any powers, duties or functions under this Bylaw to an employee of
the City.
48. Severability
48.1. Each provision of this Bylaw is independent of all other provisions. If any such
provision is declared invalid by a Court, all other provisions of this Bylaw will remain
valid and enforceable.
49. Repeal
49.1. Bylaw 3257-23 and any amendments are hereby repealed upon passage of Bylaw
3371-25.
50. Effective Date
50.1. This Bylaw shall come into force upon third and final reading.
READ a FIRST time in COUNCIL this 26th day of May, A.D. 2025.
READ a SECOND time in COUNCIL this 26th day of May, A.D. 2025.
READ a THIRD time in COUNCIL this 26th day of May, A.D. 2025.
MAYOR
GENERAL
MANAGER,
CORPORATE
SERVICES
Original Signed by B. Hillson
Original Signed by Mayor Stasko
Bylaw 3371-25 - Dog Control and Licensing Bylaw
Page 26
SCHEDULE "A"
OFFENCE PENALTIES
Section
Offence
Specified Penalty
4.1.1
Having more than three (3) Dogs in a residence
$250.00
4.2
Failure to renew Over Limit Permit
$250.00
5.1
Unlicenced Dog
$250.00
5.2
Unlicensed Nuisance Dog
$500.00
6.1.3
Failure to wear a tag
$100.00
6.1.4
Failure to notify of change to Licence information
$150.00
6.4
Give false information when applying for Licence
$500.00
9.1
Dog Running At Large
$250.00
9.3.1
Dog not under control in an Off Leash Area
$250.00
9.3.2
More than four (4) Dogs in Off Leash Area
$250.00
9.3.3
Not physically capable of controlling and restraining all Dogs in
custody
$250.00
9.3.4
Failure to carry Leash in Off Leash Area
$150.00
9.4
Allow Dog In Heat/Communicable Disease in Off Leash Area
$250.00
9.4
Allow Guard Dog in Off Leash Area
$500.00
9.6
Failure to restrain/remove Dog from Off Leash Area
$250.00
9.8
Dog in Prohibited Area
$250.00
9.10
Dog left unattended in Vehicle improperly
$150.00
9.11
Dog left unattended in Vehicle when weather conditions not
suitable
$500.00
10.1
Dog outside cab of Vehicle
$500.00
11.3
Allow Dog In Heat to be source of attraction/not confined properly
$150.00
12.1.4
Failure to report suspected case of Communicable Disease
$500.00
13.1
Failure to remove Dog faeces
$300.00
13.2
No suitable means to remove faeces
$100.00
13.3
Allow defecation to accumulate to extent to annoy or pose health
risk
$500.00
Bylaw 3371-25 - Dog Control and Licensing Bylaw
Page 27
14.1
Dog disturbing the peace
$300.00
15.1.1
Chase Dog, Wildlife, Livestock, or other domesticated household
pet
$300.00
15.1.2
Chase bicycles or vehicles
$200.00
15.1.3
Chase or threaten a Person
$500.00
15.1.4
Bite, Attack or cause damage to property Dog, Wildlife, Livestock,
or other domesticated household pet
$750.00
15.1.5
Cause Severe Injury to Dog, Wildlife, Livestock, or other
domesticated household or pet
$1,500.00
15.1.6
Cause death to Dog, Animal, Wildlife, Livestock, or other
domesticated household or pet
$2,000.00
15.1.7
Dog Bites a Person
$1,000.00
15.1.7
Dog Attacks a Person
$2,000.00
15.2
Direct Dog to Attack, chase, harass, threaten a Person, Dog,
Wildlife, Livestock, or other domesticated household pet
$1,000.00
16.5
Failure to obey Nuisance Dog conditions
$750.00
17.3
Failure to surrender Dog
$1,000.00
23.1.1
Obstruct or interfere with Peace Officer seizure
$1,000.00
23.1.2
Open Vehicle in which seized Dog(s) has been placed
$500.00
23.1.3
Remove or attempt to remove seized Dog
$500.00
23.2.1
Untie/loosen/or free restrained Dog
$500.00
23.2.2
Open gate/door/or opening allowing Dog to Run at Large
$500.00
23.2.3
Entice Dog to Run at Large
$500.00
23.2.4
Tease Dog in an enclosure
$500.00
23.5.6
Provide false information to a Peace Officer
$500.00
23.2.7
Obstruct Peace Officer
$1,000.00
Bylaw 3371-25 - Dog Control and Licensing Bylaw
Page 28
SCHEDULE "B"
VICIOUS DOG OFFENCE PENALTIES
Section
Offence
Specified Penalty
5.3
Vicious Dog not licensed
$750.00
9.3
Vicious Dog in Off Leash Area
$1,500.00
20.1.1
Failure to tattoo or implant Vicious Dog with microchip
$500.00
20.1.2
Failure to provide tattoo or microchip information
$500.00
20.1.3
Failure to have Vicious Dog spayed or neutered
$500.00
20.2.2
Failure to notify of sale, gift, transfer, or death of Vicious Dog
$500.00
20.3.1
Vicious Dog conduct any threatening behaviour
$3,000.00
20.3.2
Vicious Dog destroy or damage property
$1,500.000
20.3.3
Vicious Dog Running At Large
$2,000.00
20.3.4
Failure to notify of Vicious Dog Running At Large
$750.00
20.4
Failure to keep Vicious Dog confined indoors and under control of a
Person eighteen (18) years of age or older on property
$1,500.00
20.5.1
Failure to keep Vicious Dog Muzzled on property
$1,500.00
20.5.2
Improper pen or structure for Vicious Dog on property
$1,500.00
20.6.1
Failure to keep Vicious Dog Muzzled
$1,500.00
20.6.2
Harness/Leash exceed 1 meter
$1,500.00
20.6.3
Vicious Dog not under control of a Person eighteen (18) years of
age or older
$1,500.00
20.7
Failure to post Vicious Dog sign
$1,500.00
20.7.4
Deface/Remove Vicious Dog sign
$750.00
Bylaw 3371-25 - Dog Control and Licensing Bylaw
Page 29
SCHEDULE "C"
DR. IAN DUNBAR'S AGGRESSION SCALE
LEVEL 1
Dog growls, lunges, snarls - no teeth touch skin. Mostly intimidation and/or
threatening behaviour.
LEVEL 2
Teeth touch skin but no puncture. May have red mark and/or minor bruise from
Dog's head or snout, may have minor scratches from paws and/or nails. Minor
surface abrasions or lacerations
LEVEL 3
Punctures one (1) to three (3) holes, single Bite. No tearing or slashes. Victim not
shaken side to side. Bruising.
Multiple Level 3 Bites.
LEVEL 4
Two (2) to four (4) holes from a single Bite, typically contact and/or punctures from
more than canines, considerable bruising. Black bruising, tears and/or slashing
wounds. Dog clamped down and held and/or shook head from side to side.
LEVEL 5
Multiple Bites at Level 4 or above. A concerted, repeated Attack causing Severe
Injury.
LEVEL 6
Any Bite resulting in death of an Animal
This scale was developed by Dr. Ian Dunbar PhD. B VetMed, MRCVS, of Berkeley California.
From his studies Dr. Dunbar has been able to separate and classify Bites into a generalized six
level assessment protocol. This Scale is used as a standard throughout the world in canine
aggression investigations and behavior assessment.
Bylaw 3371-25 - Dog Control and Licensing Bylaw
Page 30
SCHEDULE "D"
VICIOUS DOG SIGN