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Animal Control Bylaw No. 2970, 2026
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THE CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF TRAIL
ANIMAL CONTROL BYLAW NO. 2970, 2026
A BYLAW TO REGULATE THE CARE, LICENSING AND CONTROL OF DOGS AND ANIMALS
WHEREAS the Community Charter, as amended, provides that Council may, by bylaw, regulate,
prohibit and impose requirements in relation to animals within the City of Trail;
NOW THEREFORE, the Municipal Council of the City of Trail, in open meeting assembled, enacts as
follows:
1. CITATION
This Bylaw may be cited as the "Animal Control Bylaw" No. 2970, 2026
2. REPEAL
The City of Trail "Animal Control Bylaw No. 2436, 1999" and all amendments thereto is hereby
repealed.
3. DEFINITIONS
Except as otherwise provided, words and phrases used in this Bylaw will be interpreted consistently
with the Community Charter and the Interpretation Act. A reference to a statute in this Bylaw refers to
a statute of the Province of British Columbia, and a reference to any statute or Bylaw refers to that
enactment as it may be amended or replaced from time to time.
In this bylaw, unless the context otherwise requires, the following words have the following meanings:
"Abandoned" means an animal that:
a) is apparently ownerless;
b) is found straying;
c) is left by an Owner without the intent to return;
"Aggressive Behaviour" means any behaviour by an Animal that intimidates or demonstrates a threat
of harm directed at a Person or Domestic Animal and includes, but is not limited to, snarling, growling,
or pursuing a Person or Domestic Animal;
"Aggressive Dog" means a Dog that without provocation and in the absence of a mitigating factor:
a) has displayed Aggressive Behaviour toward a Person or Domestic Animal; or
b) has caused a Minor injury to a Person or Domestic Animal;
"Animal" means,
a) any member of the Animal kingdom, other than a human being and includes a domestic
animal as defined in the Community Charter; but excludes wildlife, exotic animals and
controlled alien species as defined under the British Columbia Wildlife Act.
"Animal Control Officer" means any person appointed by Council as an Animal Control Officer or
Bylaw Enforcement Officer and includes a Peace Officer or member of the Royal Canadian Mounted
Police.
Animal Control Bylaw No. 2970, 2026
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"At Large" means:
a) not restrained by means of a leash where the Animal is on public property or private property
other than property owned or occupied by the Owner of that Animal;
b) not Under Control where the Animal is on public property or private property other than
property owned or occupied by the Owner of that Animal;
c) on unenclosed land owned or occupied by the Owner of the Animal, and not restrained or
contained in a manner to prevent it from roaming; or
d) a Vicious Dog or Dangerous Dog that is unsupervised on private property and is not contained
in an enclosure or securely confined within a dwelling;
"Animal Shelter" means a facility which is used to house or contain Animals, and which is owned,
operated, or maintained by an incorporated humane society, animal welfare society, society for the
prevention of cruelty to animals, or Municipality to house or contain animals.
"Bite" means contact with a Person or Domestic Animal, including bruising, breaking or puncturing of
the skin, caused by the teeth of a Dog;
"Cat" means an Animal of the Felis catus family, commonly known as a Domestic cat; irrespective of
sex or age;
"City" means the Corporation of the City of Trail.
"Contractor" means a person or organization retained by the City to provide Animal Shelter services,
including the care, housing, and disposition of animals, or to assist with administrative functions under
this Bylaw
"Council" means the Municipal Council for the City of Trail
"Dangerous Dog" means a Dog, as defined by the Community Charter as amended from time to time.
"Distress" means:
a)
deprived of adequate food, water, shelter, ventilation, light, space, exercise, care or
veterinary treatment;
b)
kept in conditions that are unsanitary;
c)
not protected from excessive heat or cold;
d)
injured, sick, in pain or suffering; or
e)
abused or neglected.
"Dog" means an Animal of the Canis familiaris family, commonly known as a Domestic Dog,
irrespective of gender or age;
"Dog Exclusion Zone" means those areas designated via posted signage in which Dogs are prohibited.
"Dog Licence" means a Dog licence issued by the municipality in accordance with this Bylaw consisting
of a tag issued by the municipality which is impressed or stamped with a unique number;
"Enclosure" means a structure at least two metres in height, width and length, constructed of rigid
materials, designed with secure sides, top and bottom, forming or causing an enclosure that is locked
Animal Control Bylaw No. 2970, 2026
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to prevent unauthorized entry, is suitable to confine a Dog and to prevent the Dog from escaping; but
excludes invisible fencing systems;
"Feral Animal" is any animal of a domesticated species that is no longer under human control and is
living in a wild or semi-wild state, reproducing and surviving independently of human care.
"Identification" means:
a) a valid Dog Licence tag issued by the City of Trail
b) a traceable tattoo;
c) a traceable microchip; or
d) a collar or tag worn by an Animal which includes the name, current address and contact
information of the Owner;
"Impound" means to seize, detain, deliver to, receive, or take into the custody of the municipality or in
the custody of the Shelter Manager;
"Kennel" means a parcel of land as defined in the City of Trail Zoning Bylaw No. 2503, 2002", as
amended from time to time.
"Keep" means to lodge, possess, have care and control of harbor, board, bring upon or feed on a
regular basis on a parcel of land.
"Leash" means a device, or use of a device, of sufficient strength and design to restrain the size and
strength of the Dog for which it is being used, where one end must remain securely affixed to a collar
or harness securely attached to the Dog with the other end held by the Owner of the Dog;
"Leash Area" means any public park, playground, beach areas, playing fields or other such public places
under the care, management, and jurisdiction of the City except where explicated signed and
designated as an "off-leash" area.
"Licensing Year" means that time period between January 1st and December 31st inclusive, in each
and every year.
"Livestock" means animals kept for agricultural purposes, including but not limited to cattle, horses,
swine, goats, sheep, llamas, alpacas, poultry, and farmed fur-bearing animals. It does not include
household pets such as dogs and cats.
"Minor Injury" means a physical injury to a Person or Domestic Animal that includes, but is not limited
to, pinches, minor localized bruising, shallow punctures, or lacerations;
"Mitigating Factor" means a circumstance, provoking event, deliberate action or without being entirely
determined by reason, a Dog's level of response results in Aggressive behaviour or a Dog Bite, which
includes:
a)
responding to an attack by a Person or Aggressive Animal;
b)
responding to an attack by a Person or Aggressive Animal on the Dog's Owner or offspring;
c)
responding to teasing, torment or other provocation;
d)
defending the real or personal property of its Owner from trespass, damage or theft;
"Municipality" means the Corporation of the City of Trail.
Animal Control Bylaw No. 2970, 2026
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"Muzzle" means a humane basket-style fastening or covering device that encloses the nose and mouth
of a Dog and that is strong enough and well-fitted enough to prevent the Dog from biting, without
interfering with the breathing, panting or vision of the Dog or with the Dog's ability to drink;
"Neuter" means the sterilization of a male Animal by removal of the testicles or by any method of
pharmaceutical sterilization approved by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association;
"Nuisance" means any activity or condition related to the keeping of animals that unreasonably
interferes with the use and enjoyment of neighbouring property, including but not limited to:
a) persistent noise (including barking, crowing, whining),
b) odours,
c) unsanitary conditions,
d) attraction of wildlife or vermin,
e) or any other impact that would disturb a reasonable person of ordinary sensitivity.
"Nuisance Sound" means any unprovoked regular pattern of noise or sound continuing for a period of,
or periods totaling, more than five minutes within any 1 hour period between 10:00 PM of one day and
7:00 AM the following day, or for a period of, or periods totaling, more than ten minutes within any 1
hour period between 7:00 AM and 10:00 PM on the same day, or any noise or sound that an Animal
Control Officer may deem to be unusual and unnecessary.
"Owner" means a person:
a) to whom a licence for a dog has been issued under this bylaw; or
b) who owns, is in possession of, or has the care or control of an animal, temporarily or
permanently; or
c) who harbors, shelters, permits or allows an animal to remain in or about that person's land or
premises;
d) who is the custodial parent or legal guardian of a child under the age of eighteen (18) years
who owns, is in possession of, or has the care or control of a dog.
"Parcel" means a lot, block, or other area in which land is held or into which land is subdivided and
which is registered under one title, pursuant to the Land Title Act.
"Permanent Identification" means identification for an Animal in the form of a microchip containing
the current contact information of the Owner, or a traceable tattoo in the case of general licensing.
Where a dog is designated as Aggressive, Vicious, or Dangerous under this Bylaw, Permanent
Identification shall mean a microchip only.
"Poultry" means domesticated birds kept for agricultural purposes, including but not limited to
chickens, roosters, ducks, turkeys, geese, pheasants, and other fowl.
"Public Place" includes a highway, street, lane, boulevard, park, beach, or any other real property
owned, held, vested in, or operated, managed or administered by, the municipality or by a school
located within the municipality, and includes places where the public is invited;
"Shelter Manager" means a municipal employee or contractor employed or contracted by the
municipality for the purposes of managing the animal shelter and includes those Persons delegated to
manage the shelter by the shelter manager;
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"Serious Injury" means a physical injury to a Person or Domestic Animal that includes, but not limited
to deep punctures, lacerations in more than one direction, broken bones, or requires sutures or
cosmetic surgery;
"Service Dog" means any Dog trained by a recognized and accredited institution:
a)
as a law enforcement Dog; or
b)
to provide assistance to a hearing or visually impaired, physically or developmentally
challenged person.
"Spay" means the sterilization of a female animal by removal of the ovaries or by any method of
pharmaceutical sterilization approved by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association;
"Standards of Care" means the provision of:
a) adequate and appropriate food and potable water in sanitary receptacles;
b) shelter in an area of sufficient size and which is maintained to prevent the Animal from
suffering discomfort, and which includes clean bedding material;
c) adequate exercise suitable for breed; and
d) veterinary care as may be required to maintain the health and comfort of the particular
"Under Control" means, in respect of any Dog, such circumstances where the Dog: For certainty,
'electronic device' does not include electronic stimulation ('shock') collars.
a) is under physical restraint by hand, voice command or electronic device; and
b) is not displaying Aggressive Behaviour;
"Tether", when used as a noun, means a Leash, rope, chain, line, cord or other similar device by which
an Animal is attached to a stake or other stationary object or to a pulley run or running line, and, when
used as a verb, means to attach an Animal by means of a Leash, rope, chain, line, cord or other similar
device to a stake or other stationary object or to a pulley run or running line.
"Veterinarian" means a Person who is registered and in good standing with the College of
Veterinarians of British Columbia to practice veterinary medicine;
"Vicious Dog" means a Dog that, without provocation and in the absence of a mitigating factor:
a) has caused a minor injury to a Person or Domestic Animal on more than one occasion;
b) has caused a serious injury to a Person or Domestic Animal;
c) the Animal Control Officer has reasonable grounds to believe that, based on repeated
Aggressive Behaviour, is likely to cause a Minor Injury on more than one occasion to a Person
or Animal or is likely to cause a Serious Injury to a Person or Animal; or
d) is a Dangerous Dog;
"Wildlife" includes, but is not limited to, big game, birds of prey, migratory game birds, non-game
animals, or any hybrid offspring resulting from the crossing of two wild animals.
"Zoning Bylaw" means the "City of Trail Zoning Bylaw", as amended from time to time.
Animal Control Bylaw No. 2970, 2026
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4. GENERAL PROVISIONS
Appointment of Bylaw Enforcement and Animal Control Officer
4.1
The City may appoint or employ such employees and agents as Animal Control Officers, Bylaw
Enforcement Officers, or other titles that deems necessary to enable it to carry out the powers and
duties pursuant to this Bylaw and the Community Charter.
Animal Shelter and Shelter Manager
4.2
The City may contract with any person, firm, society, or corporate body for the purpose of maintaining
an Animal control facility of such size and design and in such location as the City Manager (Chief
Administrative Officer) may from time to time direct, and for the purposes of this Bylaw any such
facility is the Animal Shelter.
4.3
The City may contract a Shelter Manager and such other employees in connection with the operation
of the Animal Shelter and the carrying out and enforcement of the provisions of this Bylaw as the City
considers necessary and expedient.
4.4
The Shelter Manager is hereby authorized to collect any fees or charges due under this Bylaw on behalf
of the City.
4.5
No person shall take, let or assist any animal out of the Animal Shelter or custody of an Animal Control
Officer without the consent of the Animal Control Officer.
5. FEES
5.1
The fees payable under this Bylaw are set out as "Schedule A" and penalties for Bylaw Offences are set
out of "Schedule B" attached to and forming part of this Bylaw.
6. DOG LICENSE AND ANIMAL IDENTIFICATION
Dog License
6.1
A Person shall not own, keep, possess or harbour any Dog in the City unless a valid and subsisting Dog
Licence for the current calendar year has been obtained for the Dog.
6.2
A licence is not required for a dog less than 4 months in age.
6.3
Where this bylaw provides for a reduced Dog Licence fee for a Dog that is Neutered or Spayed, the
application shall be accompanied by a certificate signed by a Veterinarian indicating that the Dog has
been Neutered or Spayed.
6.4
Where a Dog Licence is issued, the Owner of a Dog for which a Dog Licence has been issued under this
bylaw shall affix, and keep affixed, the Dog Licence on the Dog by a collar, harness, or other suitable
device.
6.5
A Person must not remove the Dog Licence required by Section 6.1 from the Dog, unless the Owner
has given authority to remove the Dog Licence.
6.6
The Owner of any licensed Dog shall, within thirty days of the Owner's change of address, notify the
City.
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6.7
If a Dog is licenced outside of the City of Trail and moves into the City, the Owner of that Dog must,
within thirty days of the Dog coming to the City, make an application for a Dog Licence.
6.8
No Dog Licence shall be issued to, or in the name of, any Person under 18 years of age.
6.9
One Dog Licence will be provided per Dog and the Dog Licence is not transferable to another Dog.
6.10 Every Dog Licence issued under this Bylaw shall expire on the 31st day of December in the licence year
it was issued.
6.11 Pursuant to Section 9 of this Bylaw, if the Dog is an Aggressive Dog or a Vicious Dog, the Owner shall
apply for an Aggressive Dog or Vicious Dog Licence, provided that the Aggressive Dog or Vicious Dog
has Permanent Identification and the Identification information is included in the Dog Licence
application.
6.12 The City may issue a replacement dog licence tag upon being satisfied by the owner that the original
tag issued by the City has been lost or stolen and upon payment of the fee provided in Schedule "A" of
this Bylaw.
6.13 The Owner of a Service Dog is exempt from the Dog Licence fees in respect of that Dog, provided that:
a)
the Owner of an Animal applies to the City of Trail, in a form acceptable to the City, to have
that Animal designated as a Service Dog for the purposes of this Bylaw; and
b)
upon receiving and reviewing an application under this section, the Animal Control Officer has
approved the application.
Revocation of Dog Licence
6.14 The City may revoke a Dog Licence in respect of any Dog whose Owner has failed to pay any licensing
or impoundment fees under this Bylaw and not reinstate that Dog Licence until all fees are paid.
6.15 Where a Dog is licenced and is subsequently deemed to be an Aggressive Dog or a Vicious Dog, the Dog
licence applicable to that Dog will become invalid and the Owner of that Dog must apply to the City for
a new Dog Licence.
6.16 If a Dog Licence is revoked under this Bylaw, the City shall deliver notice of the revocation to the
Owner at the address indicated on the Dog Licence application.
Identification
6.17 The Owner of a Dog shall affix, and keep affixed, sufficient Identification on the Dog by a collar,
harness, traceable tattoo, microchip or other suitable device such that a Person finding the Dog
roaming in the City can identify and contact the Owner.
7. CONTROL OF ANIMALS
7.1
The Owner of an Animal shall obey all posted signage that applies to that Animal while in a Public
Place.
7.2
The Owner of an Animal must not cause, permit, allow, or fail to prevent that Animal to
a)
display Aggressive Behaviour towards a Person or a Domestic Animal;
b)
cause a Minor Injury to a Person or Domestic Animal;
c)
cause a Serious injury to a Person or Domestic Animal; or
d)
damage private or Public Property.
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7.3
The Owner who knows or suspects that an Animal has a communicable disease must, where the
disease poses a threat to the health or safety of a Person or Animal, must:
a)
isolate the Animal to the property or premises of the Owner for the period of time that the
Animal has a communicable disease, other than for the purpose of visiting a Veterinarian;
b)
seek the assistance of and follow the orders of a Veterinarian; and
c)
transport the Animal in a manner to ensure it does not come into contact with another
Person or Animal.
7.4
No Owner or person having the custody, care or control of an Animal, shall allow or suffer the Animal
to run At Large in the City.
7.5
No person shall do anything or omit to do anything where such act or omission has or may have the
effect of causing or permitting the running At Large of an Animal within the City.
7.6
The Owner of a female Dog that is not Spayed must confine the Dog during the season in which the
Dog is in heat, in such a manner that the Dog cannot escape nor can another Dog enter the place in
which the Dog is confined.
7.7
No owner or possessor of a dog will allow the dog to be within a dog exclusion zone or a restricted
public area.
Animal Limit
7.8
A Person shall not keep or allow to be kept on any real property more than a total of 3 Dogs unless the
real property is:
a) A licensed veterinary clinic;
b) An Animal Shelter; or
c) A licenced business that provides care for Animals in a manner permitted by the land use
bylaw applicable to the land containing the business.
d) A Kennel where use is permitted under the City's Zoning Bylaw
7.9
No person shall keep more than a total of 3 Cats on any one parcel.
7.10 If a person is providing temporary care for more than 3 Dogs and/or 3 Cats, over the age of 16 weeks (4
months), they shall notify the animal control officer with the number and species of animals, reason
and estimated length of time they will be provided care (example: foster care for an animal welfare
agency).
7.11 No person shall own, operate, or maintain a kennel within the City except where expressly permitted
under the City's Zoning Bylaw.
Animal Defecation
7.12 The Owner of an Animal that defecates in a Public Place or on any private property without the
consent of the Owner of that property, must immediately remove the excrement and dispose of it in a
suitable refuse container.
7.13 Section 7.12 does not apply to an Owner who is legally blind with respect to feces deposited by a
Service Dog.
Nuisance Animals
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7.14 Every Owner of an Animal shall ensure that the Animal does not produce a Nuisance Sound which
disturbs or tends to disturb the quiet, peace, rest, comfort, convenience or enjoyment of the
neighborhood or of persons in the vicinity.
8. STANDARDS OF CARE
Tethering of Animals
8.1
A Person shall not cause, permit or allow an Animal:
a) to be tethered, hitched, tied or fastened to a fixed object in such a way that the Animal is able
to leave the boundaries of the Owner's property;
b) to be tethered, hitched, tied or fastened to a fixed object where a choke, prong or shock
collar or a chain forms part of the securing apparatus, or where a rope or cord is tied directly
around the Animal's neck or be tethered other than with a collar or harness that is properly
fitted to the Animal and attached in a manner that will not injure the Animal or enable the
Animal to injure itself by pulling on the tether;
c) to be tethered, hitched, tied or fastened to a fixed object except with a tether of sufficient
length to enable the full and unrestricted movement of the Animal.
8.2
No Owner shall confine or permit an Animal to be confined in an enclosed space, including but not
limited to a motor vehicle, without adequate ventilation and environmental control to prevent the
Animal from experiencing heat-related distress, discomfort, injury, or death. Such enclosed space or
vehicle (if stationary) shall not rely solely on shade and must be situated and ventilated in a manner
that prevents the build-up of heat and ensures the Animal is not exposed to conditions that could
cause overheating, distress, or heat-related injury.
8.3
If an Animal Control Officer reasonably believes that an Animal in an enclosed space, including but not
limited to a motor vehicle, is without sufficient ventilation to prevent the Animal from suffering from
discomfort, a heat related injury or death, the Animal Control Officer may take any and all actions
necessary to recover the Animal from the enclosed space, including but not limited to forcibly entering
the enclosed space and impounding the Animal in accordance with this Bylaw. The City is not liable to
any person for any damage to property, including any motor vehicle, in recovering an Animal in
distress under this section.
Animals in Distress
8.4
A Person shall not cause, permit or allow an Animal to be in Distress.
Animal Abandonment
8.5
A Person shall not abandon any Animal in any Public Place or on any private property without the
consent of the owner or occupier of that property.
Animal Shelter Standards of Care
8.6
The Shelter Manager shall be responsible for the Animals impounded under this Bylaw and may set
standards regarding food, water, shelter, exercise, social interaction and veterinary attention for
Animals kept in the Animal Shelter.
8.7
If a Shelter Manager considers that an impounded Animal requires in shelter care, examination by a
Veterinarian or urgent veterinary care to alleviate any pain or suffering, communicable disease or
parasite as recommended by a Veterinarian, then the Shelter Manager may cause such care to be
provided at the sole cost and expense of the Animal's Owner.
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8.8
During or following the impoundment period, the Shelter Manager must, in consultation with a
Veterinarian, take an Animal to a Veterinarian for euthanasia, where the veterinarian reasonably
believes:
a)
immediate veterinary treatment cannot prolong the Animal's life, or;
b)
prolonging the Animal's life would result in the Animal suffering unduly.
8.9
Any euthanasia method used in or by the Animal Shelter must quickly induce loss of consciousness
followed by death, while ensuring the death is as free from pain, distress, anxiety, or apprehension as
possible. The euthanasia method must be reliable, irreversible and compatible with the species, age
and health status of the animal. Any agent or method that is unacceptable according to the AVMA
Guidelines on Euthanasia is also unacceptable for use in shelters.
8.10 The Shelter Manager is entitled to recover from the owner the cost of veterinary care provided while
the Animal was impounded, in addition to any other fees due to the City of Trail for the redemption of
the Animal.
9. AGGRESSIVE, VICIOUS, AND DANGEROUS DOGS
9.1
Where an Animal Control Officer is of the opinion that a Dog is an Aggressive Dog or Vicious Dog, the
Animal Control Officer may designate the dog an Aggressive Dog or Vicious Dog and shall deliver a
letter to the owner of the Dog advising of the designation.
9.2
The Owner who receives a letter under section 9.1 of this Bylaw may, within fourteen (14) days of
receiving the letter, request the Animal Control Officer or designate to reconsider the designation.
9.3
Upon receiving a request under section 9.2 of this Bylaw, the Animal Control Officer or designate shall
consider the request and may:
a) confirm the designation with respect to the Dog;
b) cancel the designation with respect to the Dog; or
c)
reduce the designation to Aggressive Dog if the Dog was designated as a Vicious Dog;
by delivering a letter to the requesting Owner advising of the Animal Control Officer or
designates' decision.
Aggressive Dogs
9.4
The Owner of an Aggressive Dog must:
a)
not cause, permit, allow, or fail to prevent that Dog, at any time, to be At Large within City of
Trail whether or not the Owner has entrusted the care and custody of the Dog to any other
Person;
b)
when in a public place, secure the Dog by a collar or harness and a leash, with a maximum
length of 1.2 metres from Owner to Dog, suitable to the size and strength of the Dog, and
which must not include a retractable style leash;
c)
ensure the Dog has Permanent identification within fourteen days of receiving notice of the
Dog being designated an Aggressive Dog, and provide the identification information to the
Animal Control Officer;
d)
have the Aggressive Dog photographed and the photo provided to the City for identification
purposes;
e)
notify the Animal Control Officer within two (2) business days if the Dog moves, dies or there
are any changes in residency or ownership of the Dog, and provide new owner information,
f)
in the case of transfer of ownership of the Aggressive Dog, ensure the prospective Owner is
informed that the Dog has been designated as an Aggressive Dog prior to the transfer of
ownership.
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9.5
The Owner of an Aggressive Dog may, if after one year of the Dog being designated an Aggressive Dog:
a) the Dog has not displayed any further Aggressive Behavior or caused any further injury;
b) the City has not received any further complaints in regard to that Dog;
c) the Owner has provided proof and documentation that the Owner and Dog have successfully
completed a humane training course designed to reasonably address the Aggressive
Behaviour; and
d) the Dog has Permanent Identification and a valid City Dog Licence,
e) apply in writing to the Animal Control Officer to have the Aggressive Dog designation
removed, and, if all of the requirements of this section are fulfilled to the satisfaction of the
Animal Control Officer, the designation shall be removed.
9.6
If a Dog is designated an Aggressive Dog more than once or further displays Aggressive Behaviour the
requirements of section 9.4 shall apply in perpetuity.
Vicious Dogs
9.7
The Owner of a Vicious Dog shall comply with the requirements of subsections 9.4(a) to (e) of this
Bylaw that apply to an Owner of an Aggressive Dog and shall:
a)
when in a Public Place, Muzzle the Dog in a manner as to prevent it from being able to Bite a
Person or another Domestic Animal;
b)
post a clearly visible sign at all points of entry onto any premises where the Dog is being kept,
temporarily or permanently, warning that there is a Vicious Dog on the premises;
c)
at all times while the Vicious Dog is on the Owner's premises, keep the Vicious Dog securely
confined indoors or confined outdoors in an Enclosure located within securely fenced
premises, and ensure that all fences and gates are locked as to prevent access to the fenced
area and the enclosure;
d)
notify the Animal Control Officer within two (2) business days if the Dog moves, dies or there
are any changes in residency or ownership of the Dog, and provide new owner information,
e)
in the case of transfer of ownership of the Aggressive Dog, ensure the prospective Owner is
informed that the Dog has been designated as an Aggressive Dog prior to the transfer of
ownership.
9.8 The notice set out in Section 9.1 shall include a statement advising the Owner of the Vicious Dog of the
ability to appeal the determination of the Animal Control Officer under section 9.3.
9.9 The Owner of a Dog which has been designated a Vicious Dog may, within fourteen (14) days of notice
of the designation being delivered, make written representations to the Animal Control Officer, or any
successor position in title, requesting that the designation be removed or changed.
9.10 After reviewing the representations by the Owner of the Dog under section 9.9, the Animal Control
Officer, or any successor position in title, may,
a)
uphold the designation of the Dog as a Vicious Dog;
b)
rescind the designation of the Animal Control Officer and make no designation in regard to
the Dog; or
c) substitute the designation of a Vicious Dog with the designation of an Aggressive Dog.
9.11 In addition to the other powers set out in this Bylaw, an Animal Control Officer is designated by Council
to have the authority to exercise all of the special powers in relation to Dangerous Dogs as set out in
Section 49 of the Community Charter.
Animal Control Bylaw No. 2970, 2026
Page 12 of 18
10. SEIZURE AND IMPOUNDMENT
10.1 An Animal Control Officer may seize and impound:
a) an unlicensed Dog;
b) any Animal that is found At Large on a highway or in a Public Place;
c)
any Animal that is found At Large or straying on private property;
d) any Animal found on unfenced land and not securely restrained or contained;
e) any Animal that is or appears to be in Distress;
f)
any Animal presenting a threat of serious harm to a Person or Animal; or
g) any Animal found to be in contravention of any provision of this Bylaw.
10.2 An Animal Control Officer must, upon seizing an Animal, deliver the Animal to the designated Animal
Shelter for impoundment.
10.3 Upon receiving an Animal, the Shelter Manager may as the Shelter Manager deems appropriate:
a)
ensure the Animal has adequate shelter, food, and water;
b)
check the Animal for any injuries or infections that may require treatment; and
c)
provide for veterinary care and pain control for injured or ill impounded Animals as may be
necessary to sustain its life and relieve Distress.
10.4 Subject to section 10.5, every Owner or Owner's agent of an Animal that has been impounded may
reclaim the Animal by:
a) attending the Animal Shelter with satisfactory proof of ownership of the Animal; and
b) pay in full any and all licensing charges, impounding charges, custodial charges for the care
and maintenance of the Animal and any other charges levied pursuant to this Bylaw, including
veterinary charges incurred while the Animal has been impounded.
10.5 After an Animal has been impounded for longer than five (5) days, the Shelter Manager or designate
may direct that the Animal:
a) be destroyed;
b) be offered to the general public for sale; or
c) be placed with any Person or organization deemed acceptable by the Shelter Manager.
10.6 The Owner of an impounded Animal must pay in full any and all fees and charges levied pursuant to
this Bylaw, regardless of whether or not the owner reclaims the Animal, including, but not limited to:
a) the impound fee for the Animal;
b) the custodial charges for the care and maintenance of the Animal;
c) the Veterinarian charges incurred while the Animal has been impounded;
d) the destruction fee if the Animal is destroyed; and
e) any other fees and charges.
11. LIVESTOCK
11.1 No person shall keep Livestock in any area of the City unless permitted under the Zoning Bylaw.
11.2 All Livestock brought into a Public Place must be kept under control and must not be subjected to
harassment by humans or domestic animals. Bikers, hikers and dogs must yield to horses on the trails
as per https://kccts.wildapricot.org/Trail-Etiquette.
11.3 No person shall keep Livestock in a manner that causes or is likely to cause a Nuisance in the
surrounding area, including by reason of:
Animal Control Bylaw No. 2970, 2026
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a) persistent or excessive noise
b) strong or offensive odours;
c)
attraction of wildlife or vermin;
d) accumulation or improper disposal of manure or other animal waste;
e) runoff, effluent, or pollution affecting adjacent properties;
f)
visual unsightliness related to fencing, shelters, or feed storage.
11.4 In the event of a conflict between this Bylaw and the Zoning Bylaw with respect to where Livestock
may be kept, the Zoning Bylaw shall prevail.
12. PIGEONS
12.1 No person shall keep pigeons or doves on any parcel in the City unless that person complies with all of
the following requirements:
a) not more than three (3) pairs of pigeons or doves, or a combination of both, shall be kept on
any parcel within the City and the owner of the pigeons or doves must reside on the
premises;
b) all pigeon or dove lofts shall be no closer than 9 metres to any public or private building,
other than that of the owner of the loft or his immediate family;
c) no person shall have more than one loft and no such loft shall contain more than three (3)
pairs of pigeons or doves, or a combination of both.
12.2 No person shall place, or cause to be placed, on or near the property of that person, any matter which
has the effect of attracting pigeons. This subsection does not apply to a person who keeps pigeons in
compliance with section 12.1.
12.3 No person shall place, or cause to be placed, on any public place, any matter which has the effect of
attracting pigeons.
13. EXCEPTIONS
13.1 Section 5 and 6 of this Bylaw shall not apply to:
a) an Animal Shelter;
b) any premises operated by the British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to
Animals (BC SPCA);
c) a veterinary hospital;
d) educational facilities where Animals are being kept for study, research or teaching purposes in
conjunction with and under the direct sponsorship of a school or the Ministry of Education;
e) an Owner of a Dog that is conducting wildlife control duties in accordance with a valid
contract with the City or Government agency; or
f) a Dog being utilized by law enforcement officers for duties or training related to law
enforcement.
14. ENFORCEMENT
14.1 The Owner of a Dog shall not leave the scene of a Dog Bite or incident in which an injury to a Person or
domestic Animal has occurred without:
a) providing their name and contact information to the parties involved in the Dog Bite or
incident; or
Animal Control Bylaw No. 2970, 2026
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b) making a report about the Dog Bite or incident to the Animal Control Officer; including name
and contact information, within 72 hours.
Right of Entry
14.2 Pursuant to section 16 of the Community Charter, an Animal Control Officer may enter into or upon
any parcel within the City at a reasonable time, in a reasonable manner and taking reasonable steps to
advise the Owner or occupier before entering the property for the following purposes:
a) to inspect and determine whether all regulations, prohibitions and requirements are being
met;
b) imposed under or pursuant to this bylaw are being met;
c) to take action on default of an order under this bylaw; or
d) to request anything to be produced to assist with an inspection, enforcement or action on
default performed for the purpose of this bylaw
14.3 A Person shall not interfere with, hinder or obstruct an Animal Control Officer in the exercise or
performance of their powers, duties or functions under this Bylaw including, but not limited to:
a) not providing identification information or providing false information;
b) unlocking or unlatching or otherwise opening a vehicle or Enclosure in which an impounded
Animal has been placed;
c) removing or attempting to remove any Animal from the possession of a Shelter Manager or
Animal Control Officer; or
d) removing, or attempting to remove, an Animal from the Animal Shelter except in accordance
with Section 10.4 of this Bylaw.
15. OFFENCE AND PENALTY
15.1 Any Person who contravenes, violates, or fails to comply with any provision of this Bylaw, or who
suffers or permits any act or thing to be done in contravention or violation of this Bylaw, commits an
offence under this bylaw.
15.2 Any person who commits an offence under this bylaw shall be liable:
a) Except as otherwise provided in this Bylaw, or any other City of Trail Municipal Ticketing
Bylaw or Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, and amendments thereto, any person who
violates any of the provisions of this Bylaw or who suffers or permits any act or thing to be
done in contravention of this Bylaw, or who refuses, or omits or neglects to fulfill, observe,
carryout or perform any duty or obligation imposed by this Bylaw shall be liable upon
summary conviction following a prosecution under the Offence Act, RSBC 1996, c 338, to a
maximum fine of $50,000, together with the cost of the prosecution and any other penalty or
order imposed pursuant to the Community Charter, SBC 2003, c 26, the Local Government
Act, RSBC 2015, c1, or the Offence Act, as amended from time to time.
15.3 If an offence continues for more than one day, each day that the offence continues constitutes a
separate and distinct offence.
15.4 Nothing in this Bylaw limits the City of Trail from utilizing any other remedy that is otherwise available
to the City.
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16. MISCELLANEOUS
16.1 If any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this bylaw is deemed to be invalid by the
decision of a Court of competent jurisdiction, the invalid portion shall be severed, and such decision
shall not affect the validity of the remainder of the bylaw.
16.2 This Bylaw shall come into effect on the day of its adoption.
16.3 A Dog that is validly Licensed under "Animal Control Bylaw No. 2436, 1999" at the time this Bylaw
comes into effect is validly Licensed under this Bylaw until that License expires.
FIRST READING
this day 9th of February, 2026
SECOND READING
this day 9th of February, 2026
THIRD READING
this day 9th of February, 2026
ADOPTED ON
this day 23rd of February, 2026
_________________________
_________________________
Mayor
Corporate Officer
Animal Control Bylaw No. 2970, 2026
Page 16 of 18
CITY OF TRAIL
ANIMAL CONTROL BYLAW NO. 2970
SCHEDULE "A" - DOG LICENCE FEES
Dog licence tags are required when a dog reaches the age of 4 months and fees are payable as follows:
CLASSIFICATION
ANNUAL FEE
For each neutered male dog
(A certificate from a qualified veterinarian is required)
$25.00
For each spayed female dog
(A certificate from a qualified veterinarian is required)
$25.00
For each male dog - per year
$75.00
For each female dog - per year
$75.00
For each aggressive dog - per year
$100.00
For each vicious dog - per year
$200.00
For each dangerous dog - per year
$500.00
Kennel licence - annually
$55.00
If the owner of a dog, not previously licensed in the
City, applies for a dog licence after the first day of July,
the licence fee shall be reduced by one-half (1/2).
Transfer for owner holding a valid and current licence
from another jurisdiction
$10.00
Replacement of a lost/stolen dog licence tag
$5.00
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Page 17 of 18
CITY OF TRAIL
ANIMAL CONTROL BYLAW NO. 2970
SCHEDULE "B"- BYLAW ENFORCEMENT NOTICE OFFENCES
OFFENCE
SECTION
EARLY PAYMENT
(1-14 Days)
PENALTY
Unlicensed dog
6.1
$50.00
$100.00
Fail to affix license to collar/harness
6.4
$50.00
$100.00
Unlicensed aggressive dog
6.11
$100.00
$200.00
Fail to provide photo of vicious dog
6.11
$100.00
$200.00
Animal without identification
6.17
$50.00
$100.00
Disobey Sign
7.1
$50.00
$100.00
Animal display aggressive behaviour
7.2(a)
$50.00
$100.00
Animal cause minor injury
7.2(b)
$150.00
$300.00
Animal cause serious injury
7.2(c)
$250.00
$500.00
Animal cause property damage
7.2(d)
$50.00
$100.00
Fail to confine diseased animal
7.3
$150.00
$300.00
Animal at large
7.4
$50.00
$100.00
Failure to prevent Animal at large
7.5
$50.00
$100.00
Fail to confine dog in heat
7.6
$100.00
$200.00
Animal at large in Exclusion Zone
7.7
$50.00
$100.00
Too many animals
7.8
$150.00
$300.00
Kennel use contrary to Zoning Bylaw
7.11
$150.00
$300.00
Fail to remove feces
7.12
$50.00
$100.00
Fail to control Nuisance Sound
7.14
$50.00
$100.00
Improper tethering
8.1
$50.00
$100.00
Confined animal with inadequate ventilation
8.2
$150.00
$300.00
Improper transportation of animal
8.3
$150.00
$300.00
Animal in distress
8.4
$150.00
$300.00
Abandon animal
8.5
$75.00
$150.00
Aggressive dog at large
9.4(a)
$100.00
$200.00
Aggressive dog improperly leashed
9.4(b)
$100.00
$200.00
Aggressive dog without permanent identification
9.4(c)
$100.00
$200.00
Fail to provide photo of aggressive dog
9.4(d)
$50.00
$100.00
Fail to provide information about aggressive dog
9.4(e)
$150.00
$300.00
Fail to inform before transfer of ownership
9.4(f)
$150.00
$300.00
Vicious dog at large
9.4(a)
$150.00
$300.00
Fail to muzzle vicious dog
9.7(a)
$150.00
$300.00
Vicious dog improperly leashed
9.4(b)
$150.00
$300.00
Fail to post signage
9.7(b)
$150.00
$300.00
Vicious dog without permanent identification
9.4(c)
$150.00
$300.00
Fail to keep vicious dog secure
9.7(c)
$150.00
$300.00
Fail to provide information about vicious dog
9.7(d)
$100.00
$200.00
Fail to obtain vicious dog licence
9.4(c)
$150.00
$300.00
Fail to inform before transfer of ownership
9.7(e)
$100.00
$200.00
Fail to pay impound charges
10.6
$150.00
$300.00
Animal Control Bylaw No. 2970, 2026
Page 18 of 18
CITY OF TRAIL
ANIMAL CONTROL BYLAW NO. 2970
SCHEDULE "B"- BYLAW ENFORCEMENT NOTICE OFFENCES CONTINUED
Keeping Livestock where not permitted under Zoning
Bylaw
11.1
$100.00
$200.00
Bringing Livestock into a Public Place contrary to
bylaw
11.2
$100.00
$200.00
Keeping Livestock in a manner that causes or is likely
to cause a Nuisance
11.3
$100.00
$200.00
Keeping of pigeons or doves contrary to bylaw
12.1
$100.00
$200.00
Attracting of pigeons
12.2
$100.00
$200.00
Fail to provide contact information
14.1(a)
$100.00
$200.00
Fail to report dog incident
14.1(b)
$100.00
$200.00
Interference with Animal Control Officer
14.3
$100.00
$200.00