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Bylaw No. 5/2018 A Bylaw Providing for the Licensing, Prohibiting, Regulating and Controlling of Animals Page 1 of 44
CITY OF YORKTON
BYLAW NO. 5/2018
A BYLAW OF THE CITY OF YORKTON IN
THE PROVINCE OF SASKATCHEWAN TO
PROVIDE FOR THE LICENSING,
PROHIBITING, REGULATING AND
CONTROLLING OF ANIMALS WITHIN THE
CITY OF YORKTON
Known as 'The Animal Control Bylaw'
04/02/2018
CONSOLIDATED COPY
which includes
Bylaw No. 5/2018, Bylaw
No. 10/2022, No. 3/2026
COPY
Bylaw No. 5/2018 A Bylaw Providing for the Licensing, Prohibiting, Regulating and Controlling of Animals Page 2 of 44
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
PART 1: INTERPRETATION
Title and Purpose
4
Definitions
4
PART 2: CATS
Nuisance or at Large
7
Impoundment
7
Release
8
Disposal of Unclaimed Cats
8
Cat Runs
9
Defecation
9
PART 3: DOGS
Responsibility of Dog Owners
Dog Licenses Required
9
Licensing
9
Dog Tag
10
Nuisances
10
Barking and Howling
11
Defecation
11
Dogs in Vehicles
12
Nuisance Dogs
12
Impoundment of Dogs
Detainment
12
Ability to Restrain Dog
12
Detainment and Release
13
Disposal of Unclaimed Dogs
13
Responsibility of Poundkeeper
14
Miscellaneous
Dog Runs
14
Kennels
14
Humane Destruction of Sick and Injured Animals
14
Prohibited Areas
15
Miscellaneous
15
Quarantine of Animals
15
Rabies Test of Animals
15
Aggressive Dogs
15
PART 4: DANGEROUS DOGS
Dangerous Dogs
17
Fighting Dogs Considered Dangerous
17
COPY
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Dangerous Animal Hearings
18
Offences and Penalties for Dangerous Dogs
19
Order Binds Subsequent Owner
20
Execution of Destruction Order
20
Destruction By Peace Officer
20
Entry and Search
20
Charges May Be Added to Property Taxes
20
Criteria for Muzzle and Leash for Dangerous Animals
21
Requirement for Inoculation of Animals
21
Requirements for Microchipping of Dangerous Animals
21
Requirements for Enclosures for Dangerous Animals
21
Requirement for Signage
22
PART 5: CONTROL AND REGULATION OF EXOTIC AND WILD ANIMALS
Owning and Harbouring Exotic and Wild Animals
22
Exemptions to Owning and Harbouring Exotic and Wild Animals
23
PART 6: PENALTIES AND OFFENCES
Penalties
23
Service of Orders
24
Severability
24
Repeal of Former Bylaw
24
Effective Date of Bylaw
25
SCHEDULES
Schedule "A" - Cat Trap Permit
26
Schedule "B" - Charges for Impounded Animals
28
Schedule "C" - Dog License Fees
29
Schedule "D" - Off-Leash Dog Park Location
30
Schedule "E" - Declaration to Have Dog and Vaccinated
31
Schedule "F" - Declaration to Successfully Complete Obedience Class
32
Schedule "G" - Prohibited Areas for Dogs
33
Schedule "H" - Beware of Aggressive Dog Signs
34
Schedule "I" - Beware of Dangerous Dog Signs
35
Schedule "J" - Enclosures for Aggressive/Dangerous Dogs
36
Schedule "K" - List of Animals Prohibited Within the City of Yorkton
37
Schedule "L" - Voluntary Payment Amounts Accepted by City In Lieu of Prosecution
38
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
COPY
Bylaw No. 5/2018 A Bylaw Providing for the Licensing, Prohibiting, Regulating and Controlling of Animals Page 4 of 44
City of Yorkton
Saskatchewan
Bylaw No. 5/2018
A Bylaw to Provide for the Licensing, Prohibiting,
Regulating and Controlling of Animals and the Being at Large of Animals Within the City
of Yorkton
WHEREAS, Section 8 of The Cities Act authorizes a Council to license, regulate and
control any animal or class of animals; and
THEREFORE, the Council of the City of Yorkton in Council assembled enacts as
follows:
PART 1: INTERPRETATION
Title and Purpose
1. (1) This Bylaw may be referred to as "THE ANIMAL CONTROL BYLAW".
(2) The purpose of this Bylaw is to promote the safety, health and welfare of people and the
protection of people and property in the City of Yorkton, to ensure the humane treatment
and control of animals and to regulate or prohibit the keeping of vicious animals within
the City.
Definitions
2. In this Bylaw, unless otherwise specified:
"Aggressive dog" means any dog, whatever its age, whether on public or private property
which has without provocation;
(a) exhibited threatening behavior which creates a reasonable threat of physical
injury and may include growling, lunging, snarling or chasing in a menacing
fashion; and/or
(b) caused serious injury which means a physical injury to another domestic
animal or person that results in lacerations that may require sutures; and/or
(c) bitten a person or persons whether on the property of the owner or not; and/or
(d) done any act to injure a person or persons whether on the property of the
owner or not; and/or
(e) chased or otherwise threatened a person or persons whether on the property of
the owner or not, unless the person chased or threatened is a trespasser on the
property of the owner; and/or
(f) caused death to an animal or person;
"Animal Control Officer" means the City Poundkeeper, any person appointed by Council
for the purpose of bylaw enforcement, any member of the Yorkton Detachment of the RCMP
and any other person or agency appointed by Council to restrain, receive or impound dogs;
COPY
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"Animal Shelter" means any facility designated as such by the City, and shall include the
Pound;
"At Large" means, if the animal is off the premises of its owner, and/or not on a leash under
immediate, continuous and effective control of its owner;
"Business Day" means any day that the City Office is open for business;
"Cat" means either the male or female of the feline family;
"City" means the municipal corporation of the City of Yorkton and the area contained within
its boundaries;
"Council" means the Council of the City of Yorkton;
"Dog" means either male or female of the canidae family that is domesticated and includes
every dog of either sex; and, shall include pups under six (6) months not spayed or neutered
and any female dog that has been spayed and any male dog that has been neutered;
"Dog Run" means a permanent structure outside of a residential dwelling unit, used for the
containment of a dog;
"Excessive Barking" means barking or any noise that persistently occurs or continues to
such a degree or extent that it unreasonably interferes with the comfortable enjoyment of life
or property in the neighbourhood.
"Hen Keeper" means the person having custody, care, control and possession of hens;
"Hen Run" means a non-inhabitable structure that is securely enclosed and intended for
keeping hens;
"Judge" means a Provincial Court Judge or a Justice of the Peace designated to hear Bylaw
hearings;
"Kennel" means any structure used by any person for boarding or otherwise caring for,
training or whelping dogs exceeding three (3) dogs in number over the age of three (3)
months, whether or not for payment, but does not include:
(a) any premises occupied by a duly qualified veterinary surgeon for the practice
of his profession; or
(b) the dwelling house of an ordinary member of the Canadian Kennel Club, or
any other Bona fide Kennel Club, where the total number of dogs kept by the
member does not exceed five (5) in number.
"Leash" means a chain or other material capable of restraining the dog on which it is being
used;
"License Year" means the period from January 1 to December 31 of the same year, both
dates inclusive;
"Livestock" shall mean cattle, horses, mules, asses, sheep, goats, or swine;
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
Amended by
Bylaw No.
3/2026
COPY
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"Non-profit animal rescue/welfare organization" means a non-profit corporation that is
incorporated, continued or registered pursuant to The Non-Profit Corporation Act or equivalent
from other provinces or federally incorporated non-profit corporation; and which is approved
and registered by Canada Revenue Agency as a charity;
"Nuisance" means an animal which is behaving in a manner that interferes with the personal
comfort or amenities of a neighborhood;
"Nuisance Dog" means a dog declared to be a nuisance by the Animal Control Officer in
accordance with Section 18 of this Bylaw;
"Owner" includes:
(a) a person(s) who keeps, possesses, harbours or has charge of or control over an
animal;
(b) the person(s) responsible for the custody of a minor where the minor is the
owner of an animal;
but does not include:
(c) a veterinarian registered pursuant to The Veterinarians Act, 1987.;
(d) the City or the Saskatchewan Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
in respect of an animal shelter or impoundment facility operated by it;
"Person" includes an individual, partnership, association or corporation;
"Poultry" means a chicken, turkey, duck, goose, or other domestic fowl;
"Pound" means such premises and facilities as may be designated by the City, from time to
time, as the City pound;
"Poundkeeper" means a person, persons, or association designated by the City from time to
time to maintain and administer the pound;
"Provocation" means an act done intentionally for the purpose of provoking an animal to
which this Bylaw applies;
"Public Health Officer" means a public health officer appointed under the Public Health
Act;
"Public Playground" means the fallzone safety surface immediately surrounding the play
equipment plus a three metre buffer around the fallzone safety surface, specifically in a park
or municipal reserve owned by the City or under the management and control of the City (see
Figure 1.1);
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
COPY
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Figure 1.1
"Service Dog" means an animal that is trained to be used by:
(a) a person with a disability for reasons relating to his or her disability;
(b) a peace officer in the execution of his or her duties; or
(c) a person who is authorized by a peace officer to assist peace officers in their
duties;
"Sports Field" means a ball diamond playing field or soccer pitch playing field, plus a three
metre buffer around the playing field, and shall only mean ball diamonds and soccer pitches
owned by the City or under the management and control of the City.
PART 2: CATS
For the purposes of Part 2 of this Bylaw, "nuisance or at large" includes, but not limited to,
fighting with other cats, defecating or spraying on private property without permission of the
owner or occupant of the property, howling or hissing at night, digging in flower beds or garbage
containers and trespassing on private property.
Nuisance or at Large
3. (1) The owner of a cat shall ensure that the cat is not being a nuisance or at large.
(2) Where a cat is at large, the owner or occupant of the property on which the cat is at large
may file a complaint to the Animal Control Officer or designate.
Harbouring Cats
3.1 (1) No property shall house more than five (5) cats over the age of six (6) months within the
City of Yorkton.
(2) Notwithstanding Clause 3.1(1), exceptions may be granted at the discretion of the Animal
Control Officer for houses fostering cats through a non-profit animal rescue/welfare
organization, provided the cats are not a nuisance.
Impoundment
4. (1) Where an Animal Control Officer receives a complaint of a nuisance caused by a cat, the
Animal Control Officer may at their his discretion:
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
COPY
Bylaw No. 5/2018 A Bylaw Providing for the Licensing, Prohibiting, Regulating and Controlling of Animals Page 8 of 44
(a) Issue a trap to the complainant following completion of a Cat Trap Permit by the
complainant (as set out in Schedule "A"); or
(b) If deemed necessary by the Animal Control Officer, he may seize and impound any cat
found causing a nuisance.
(2) Any person may restrain any cat found at large or becoming a nuisance in the City of
Yorkton and shall deliver the cat so restrained to the Poundkeeper for impoundment. The
person shall leave with the Poundkeeper a statement in writing, describing the name of the
owner (if known), and the place and time of restraint.
(3) Where a trap is issued pursuant to clause 4(1)(a), the complainant shall:
(a) Abide by the terms of the Cat Trap Permit agreement;
(b) Personally check the trap every two hours while the trap is set;
(c) In the event a cat is trapped, immediately deliver the cat to the Poundkeeper, who may
impound the cat.
(4) Where a cat is impounded, the Poundkeeper shall:
(a) Hold the cat until claimed by the owner of the cat or disposed of in accordance with
Section 5(5) and/or Section 6;
(b) Attempt to notify the owner of the cat (if known) of the impoundment. However, no
liability whatsoever shall attach to the City, the Animal Control Officer or the
Poundkeeper by reason of failure in contacting the owner.
(5) An Animal Control Officer or a Veterinarian may take immediate action to humanely
destroy any sick or injured cat found within the City where, in his opinion immediate
destruction of the cat is necessary to avoid unnecessary suffering by the animal.
(6) It shall be the duty of the Poundkeeper to provide each cat impounded under the authority
of this Bylaw, an adequate supply of food and fresh water during its confinement in the
animal shelter and to maintain clean and properly ventilated pens or enclosures for
impounded cats.
Release
5. (1) The Poundkeeper shall keep all impounded cats for a period of at least 72 hours, excluding
the day of impounding. Sundays and statutory holidays shall not be included in the
computation of the 72 hour period. Where a cat is not claimed within the 72 hours, the
Poundkeeper may dispose of the cat by public adoption or by euthanasia, in accordance
with Section 6.
(2) An owner of a cat which has been impounded may claim the cat by:
(a) Providing reasonable proof of ownership to the Poundkeeper;
(b) Paying the impoundment charge and a housing charge, as set forth in Schedule "B";
and
(c) Payment of any fines received due to the incident that cause the cat to be impounded.
(3) Notwithstanding the above, any cat suspected of having rabies or other life threatening
disease shall be isolated and may not be claimed, destroyed or otherwise disposed of except
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
COPY
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after notice to the Public Health Officer and then only in compliance with the direction of
the Public Health Officer and the Veterinarian or Rabies Risk Assessment Veterinarian.
Disposal of Unclaimed Cats
6. (1) A cat will be considered disposed of and become the property of the Poundkeeper if the
impounded cat is not claimed in accordance with Section 21 of the Bylaw or if an owner
relinquishes the cat to the Pound. The cat may be disposed of by the Poundkeeper
without further notice in the following manner:
(a) Disposal by adoption, where in the opinion of the Poundkeeper, the cat is suitable for
adoption;
(b) Disposal by euthanasia where in the opinion of the Poundkeeper, the cat is
not suitable for adoption;
(c) Disposal by euthanasia if the cat is not adopted within a reasonable time, at the
discretion of the Poundkeeper.
(2) The proceeds received from the adoption are kept by the Poundkeeper as provided for in
the agreement between the City and the Poundkeeper.
(3) The Council may, by resolution, enter into an agreement with any person or organization
for the purpose of participation in the enforcement of this Bylaw or for the purpose of
providing pound keeping services.
Cat Runs
7. (1) Where cats are housed or kept in a cat run, the owner of the cats shall:
(a) Remove all defecation from the cat run daily and dispose of in a sanitary manner;
(b) Ensure that the cat run meets the following minimum requirement:
i.
Base and flooring constructed or composed of impervious material or wood;
ii.
Located no closer than one metre of any property line and no closer than five
metres of any neighbouring dwelling unit.
Defecation
8. (1) No owner of a cat shall fail, on request, to immediately remove any defecation of the cat
from private property, other than property owned or occupied by the owner, and dispose
of the defecation in a sanitary manner. No owner shall allow an animal's defecation to
accumulate on the property where the animal is kept to such an extent that, in the opinion
of the Animal Control Officer, it is reasonably likely to annoy or pose a health risk to
others.
(2) An owner of an animal shall remove the animal's defecations from the property where
the animal is kept and shall dispose of the defecation in a sanitary manner.
PART 3: DOGS
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
COPY
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Responsibility of Dog Owners
Dog Licenses Required
9. No person shall own or keep any dog within the City have care and control of a dog unless it
has been a valid licensed for the current year as provided in this Bylaw.
Licensing
10. (1) Every owner of a dog over the age of six months shall obtain a license within 30 days of
becoming the owner and pay an annual fee as set out in Schedule "C".
(2) The license year for dogs shall be from January 1st to December 31st of the same year.
Licenses must be renewed by March 1st of each year.
(3) The license will not be transferable to any other dog or other owner.
(4) No property shall house more than three dogs over the age of three months within the
City of Yorkton.
(5) Any property that is registered with the Canadian Kennel Club or any other bona fide
kennel club shall keep no more than five dogs.
(6) When applying for a license, the applicant must provide the following information:
(a) Name and address of the owner or the keeper of the dog;
(b) Description of the dog;
(c) Breed of the dog;
(d) Proof that the dog has been vaccinated against rabies within two years of the date of
application for the license; and
(e) Other relevant information that may be required for the Animal Control Officer or
appointed representative.
(7) The provisions of Section 10 shall not apply to dogs kept in the ordinary course of business
by the proprietors of the following premises, namely:
(a) A veterinary hospital, clinic, boarding kennel, or grooming parlor;
(b) A public pound;
(c) A shop whose business includes the sale of pets and is licensed as such;
(d) A shelter operated by an association or society incorporated for the purpose of the
protection and humane treatment of animals;
(e) RCMP - Police Service dogs acting in performance of Police work;
(f) Non-profit animal rescue/welfare organizations.
(8) A license issued pursuant to this bylaw is non-refundable and automatically revoked if the
payment is returned to the City of Yorkton for any reason.
(9) A Service Dog, must be licensed as provided by this Bylaw, but at no charge for the
license.
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
COPY
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(10) No person shall give false information when applying for a dog license.
Harbouring Dogs
10.1 (1) No property shall house more than three (3) dogs over the age of six months within the
City of Yorkton.
(2) Any property that is registered with the Canadian Kennel Club or any other bona fide
kennel club shall keep no more than five (5) dogs.
(3) Notwithstanding Clause 10.1(1), exceptions may be granted at the discretion of the
Animal Control Officer for houses fostering dogs through a non-profit animal
rescue/welfare organization. The non-profit animal rescue/welfare organization shall be
required to follow all other requirements of this Bylaw.
Dog Tag
11. (1) When issuing a license for a dog, the City of Yorkton will provide the applicant with a
tag and a receipt for the license fee.
(2) The owner must ensure that the dog wears the current valid dog tag when the dog is off
the property of the owner.
(3) The owner must notify the City immediately if the dog tag is lost.
(4) The owner must notify the City immediately if the address the dog resides at changes.
Nuisances
General
12. (1) All dogs, when off the premises of its owner, must not be at large.
(2) If a dog is found to be at large the owner shall be deemed to have permitted the dog to be
at large, and shall be guilty of an offence.
(3) Notwithstanding subsection (1), a dog may be off-leash at the off-leash dog park listed in
Schedule "D".
13. The owner of a dog must ensure that his/her dog will not upset any waste receptacles or scatter
the contents on a street, lane, or other public property, or on property not belonging to the
owner of the dog.
14. (1) The owner of a dog must ensure that his/her dog will not:
(a) Bite a person or persons whether on the property of the owner or not;
(b) Do any act to injure a person or persons whether on the property of the owner or not;
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
COPY
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(c) Chase or otherwise threaten a person or persons whether on the property of the owner
or not, unless the person chased or threatened is a trespasser on the property of the
owner;
(d) Cause damage to property or other domestic animals;
(e) Cause death to people or other domestic animals.
Barking and Howling
15. (1) No owner of a dog shall allow the animal to become a nuisance by the sound of howling,
whining or excessive barking, which can be heard by a person not on the same premises
and which unreasonably disturbs or is likely to disturb the quiet, peace, rest enjoyment,
comfort or convenience of that person.
(2) A Judge, after convicting the owner of a dog of an offence under Section 15(1) may, in
addition to any other penalties, impose the following:
(a) Direct the Animal Control Officer dog owner to give notice to such owner requiring
the nuisance complained of to be abated so as to prevent the recurrence of any
nuisance;
(b) Removal of the dog from city limits; or
(c) If such nuisance continues, Order said dog to be destroyed upon notice being given to
the owner, unless the owner voluntarily agrees to dispose of the dog.
(3) Failure to comply with this section will constitute an offence under this Bylaw.
15. (1) No owner of a dog shall permit the dog to bark or howl so as to create a nuisance.
(2) For the purposes of this section, the factors for determining whether the barking or
howling of a dog has become a nuisance are as follows:
(a) the proximity of the barking or howling to sleeping facilities;
(b) the land use, nature and zoning of the area from which the barking or howling
emanates and the area where it is received or perceived;
(c) the time of day or night the barking or howling occurs;
(d) whether the barking or howling is the result of provocation;
(e) the volume of the barking or howling; and
(f) whether the barking or howling is recurrent, intermittent or constant.
(3) Barking or howling in a residential area is deemed to be a nuisance if the barking or
howling persists for a period of:
(a) 15 consecutive minutes or longer; or
(b) 1 hour or longer, intermittently.
(4) Failure to comply with this section will constitute as an Offence under this Bylaw. The
fine for barking or howling shall be set out in Schedule "L".
Defecation
16. (1) If a dog defecates on any property other than the owners, the dog owner shall remove
such feces immediately.
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
COPY
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(2) Any dog owner shall remove any and all dog feces from their property on a daily basis
and shall dispose of the feces in a sanitary manner.
(3) An owner or occupant of private property must not allow animal feces to accumulate on
the property.
(4) An Animal Control Officer may serve an owner or occupant of private property with a
notice to remove all animal feces from the property within 24 hours of service of the
notice in accordance with Section 51.
(5) The City may remove the feces from the property if:
(a) The person to whom the request is made fails to remove the feces within 24 hours; or
(b) After reasonable inquiry, the whereabouts of the owner or occupant of the property
cannot be determined.
(6) If the City carries out the work under subsection (5), the costs and expenses incurred are
a debt due to the City.
Dogs in Vehicles
17. Dogs shall not be left unattended in any motor vehicle unless the dog is secured and is
provided with suitable ventilation.
Nuisance Dogs
18. (1) An Animal Control Officer may declare a dog a Nuisance Dog after three Notice of
Violation tickets have been issued for offences under Sections 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, or 17 of
this Bylaw, within a period of one year.
(2) The declaration of a dog as a Nuisance Dog shall be reviewed annually by the Animal
Control Officer, who shall remove the declaration after a period of two years has passed
with no Notice of Violation tickets issued.
Impoundment of Dogs
Detainment
19. (1) The Animal Control Officer may seize and impound:
a) Any dog found at large;
b) Any unlicensed dog found to be subject of a complaint; and/or
c) Any dog that has caused or alleged to have caused injury to a person or domestic
animal.
(2) The Animal Control Officer may enter onto the land surrounding any building in pursuit
of any dog which has been observed at large.
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
COPY
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(3) No person, including the person who is the owner of a dog which is being impounded or
has been impounded, shall interfere with a Poundkeeper or Animal Control Officer who
is impounding any dog in accordance with the provisions of this Bylaw.
Ability to Restrain Dog
20. Any person may restrain any dog at large in the City and must deliver such dog to the Animal
Control Officer or Poundkeeper for impoundment. The Animal Control Officer or
Poundkeeper may request a statement in writing describing the dog restrained, the name of
the owner (if known) and the place and time of restraint.
Detainment and Release
21. (1) The Poundkeeper shall keep all impounded dogs for a period of at least 72 hours,
excluding the day of impounding. Sundays and statutory holidays shall not be included in
the computation of the 72 hour period.
(2) During this period, the owner may reclaim the dog from the pound following:
a) Payment to the Poundkeeper of the fees set out in Schedule "B";
b) Payment of any fines received due to the incident that caused the dog to be
impounded;
c) Purchase of a dog license (if the dog is unlicensed), unless the dog is not required to
be licensed in accordance with Section 10;
d) A certificate being produced that the dog has been vaccinated against rabies within
the last two years;
e) If a dog has not been vaccinated for rabies in the last two years, requirements of
subsection (d) may be met by the dog owner completing a declaration as provided in
Schedule "E" and pre-paying the Poundkeeper for the cost of the rabies vaccination.
f) Failure to carry out the requirements specified on a declaration made pursuant to
section 21(2)(f) shall constitute a contravention of this Bylaw.
(3) If a dog impounded is wearing a valid license tag for the current year, the Poundkeeper
shall immediately notify the owner by telephone or in writing of the impoundment of the
dog at the telephone number or address shown in the license records. No liability
whatsoever shall attach to the City or the Poundkeeper by reason of the failure of the
owner to receive such notice.
(4) If a dog is not reclaimed within the period set out in Subsection (1), or if the owner of a
dog fails or refuses to comply within this period with the conditions set out in Subsection
(2), the Poundkeeper may dispose of the dog.
Disposal of Unclaimed Dogs
22. (1) An animal will be considered disposed of and become the property of the Poundkeeper if
the impounded animal is not claimed in accordance with Section 21 of the Bylaw or if an
owner relinquishes the dog to the Pound. The dog may be disposed of by the
Poundkeeper without further notice in the following manner:
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
COPY
Bylaw No. 5/2018 A Bylaw Providing for the Licensing, Prohibiting, Regulating and Controlling of Animals Page 15 of 44
(a) Disposal by adoption, where in the opinion of the Poundkeeper, the dog is suitable for
adoption;
(b) Disposal by euthanasia where in the opinion of the Poundkeeper, the dog is
not suitable for adoption;
(c) Disposal by euthanasia if the dog is not adopted within a reasonable time, at the
discretion of the Poundkeeper.
(2) The proceeds received from the adoption are kept by the Poundkeeper as provided for in
the agreement between the City and the Poundkeeper.
(3) The Council may, by resolution, enter into an agreement with any person or organization
for the purpose of participation in the enforcement of this Bylaw or for the purpose of
providing pound keeping services.
Responsibility of Poundkeeper
23. It shall be the duty of the Poundkeeper to provide to each dog impounded under the authority
of this Bylaw, an adequate supply of food and fresh water during its confinement in the
animal shelter and to maintain clean and properly ventilated pens or enclosures for
impounded dogs.
Miscellaneous
Dog Runs
24. (1) Where a dog is housed or kept in a dog run, the owner must ensure that the dog run is
kept in a sanitary condition protecting the health and safety of the dog.
(2) An owner must ensure the dog run on the owner's property is not located in the front yard
and is a minimum of one metre from the property line and a minimum of five meters
from a dwelling unit located on an adjacent property.
(3) An owner must ensure that a dog run on the owner's property is constructed of material of
sufficient strength and in a manner adequate to:
(a) Confine the dog; and
(b) Prevent the entry of children.
(4) If, in the opinion of the Animal Control Officer, the condition or location of a dog run is
not in accordance with this Bylaw, the Animal Control Officer may order the owner of
the property on which the dog run is located, to clean, alter, demolish or relocate the dog
run within the time period specified in the Order. Failure to Comply with the Order is
deemed an Offence.
(5) The person to whom an Order is issued pursuant to subsection (4) must comply with the
Order within the time specified in the Order.
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
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(6) An Order to relocate a dog run issued pursuant to subsection (4) will allow the owner of
the property on which the dog run is located, at least 15 days to relocate or remove the
dog run.
Kennels
25. The operation of any kennel within the City must comply with the provisions of all Bylaws
regulating the operation of kennels and businesses within the City.
Humane Destruction of Sick and Injured Animals
26. (1) An Animal Control Officer or a Veterinarian shall take immediate action to humanely
destroy any sick or injured animal found within the City where, in his/her opinion,
immediate destruction of the animal is necessary to avoid unnecessary suffering by the
animal.
(2) Reasonable efforts will be made to contact the owner of an animal before it is destroyed;
however no action lies against the Animal Control Officer or Veterinarian solely because
the owner of the animal was not contacted.
Prohibited Areas
27. (1) The areas listed in Schedule "G" are designated as areas where dogs are not permitted.
(2) This section does not apply to a service dog.
Miscellaneous
28. (1) No person may:
(a) Untie, loosen or otherwise free an animal which has been tied or otherwise restrained;
(b) Negligently or willfully open a gate, door or other opening in a fence or enclosure in
which an animal has been confined and thereby allow an animal to be at large in the
City; or
(c) Tease, entice, bait or throw objects at a dog confined within its owner's property.
29. Every female dog in heat must be housed or confined to a kennel.
Quarantine of Animals
30. Where a dog has bitten a person, the owner of the dog shall, unless the dog is ordered destroyed,
quarantine the dog for observation for symptoms of rabies for a period of not less than ten days
in accordance with the Health of Animals Act (Canada).
Rabies Test of Animals
31. (1) Any dog suspected of having rabies or other life threatening disease will be isolated and
may not be claimed from the pound, destroyed or otherwise disposed of except after
notice to the Public Health Officer, and then only in compliance with the direction of the
Public Health Officer and the Veterinarian or Rabies Risk Assessment Veterinarian.
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(2) Every person who destroys a dog following the non-fatal biting of a person or domestic
animal, whether the destruction is pursuant to an Order of a Judge or court or at the
decision of the owner of the dog, shall, if the destruction is carried out before the
completion of the quarantine period mentioned in Section 30, retain the head of the dog
in a manner usable for testing the dog for rabies.
(3) Where a person destroys a dog in the circumstances described in subsection (2), the
person shall immediately notify a Veterinarian or an Animal Control Officer that he is in
possession of the head of a dog to be tested for rabies.
Aggressive Dogs
32. (1) A dog may be deemed aggressive:
(a) After the Animal Control Officer receives a written report of an aggressive dog
incident. The Animal Control Officer shall complete an investigation and report.
After the investigation, if there is sufficient evidence, the Animal Control Officer may
deem the dog an aggressive dog where he/she feels it is in the best interest of public
safety; or
(b) After any dog owner is found guilty of an offence listed under Section 14 of this
Bylaw either on Summary Conviction or by paying a Voluntary Fine for an offence
listed under Schedule "L", specifically for offences relating to Section 14 of this
Bylaw.
(2) Any owner of an aggressive dog must ensure that:
(a) It does not bite, injure, chase, attack or cause death to a person or other domestic animal
whether on the property of the owner or not;
(b) When it is on the property of the owner it is confined in:
(i) An enclosed area as described in Schedule "J" marked with a sign as illustrated
in Schedule "H" indicating the presence of an aggressive dog; or
(ii) A dwelling and under the control of a person over the age of 16 years; and
(c) When it is off the property of the owner it is securely:
(i) Muzzled, and
(ii) Harnessed or leashed in a manner that prevents it from biting, chasing, attacking
or causing death to a person or other animal.
(3) After a period of two years after a dog has been deemed an "aggressive dog" the owner
may apply in writing to the Animal Control Officer requesting that the dog no longer be
deemed aggressive. This may only be granted after the owner proves the following:
(a) That the dog did not, during the preceding two years:
(i) Bite a person or persons whether on the property of the owner or not;
(ii) Do any act to injure a person or persons whether on the property of the owner
or not;
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
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(iii) Chase or otherwise threaten a person or persons whether on the property of the
owner or not, unless the person chased or threatened is a trespasser on the
property of the owner;
(iv) Cause damage to property or other domestic animals; or
(v) Cause death to an animal or person; and
(b) Provide proof the dog has successfully completed an obedience training class.
(4) Where the aggressive dog is moved to a different city or municipality, the owner shall
notify the City of where the aggressive dog is being moved to.
(5) Where the aggressive dog is to be sold or given away, the owner shall:
(a) Notify any prospective owner that the dog has been declared aggressive before it is sold
or given away as the aggressive dog designation will apply to new owners as well; and
(b) Notify the City of the name, address and telephone number of any new owner of the
aggressive dog.
(6) An approved enclosure must be erected or in place within 15 days of receiving an
aggressive dog Order. Failure to erect an enclosure within the time period allowed is an
offence under this Bylaw.
(7) For the purposes of this section, an animal is presumed not to have been provoked, in the
absence of evidence to the contrary.
(8) No dog shall be considered aggressive while the dog was:
(a) Acting in the performance of police work; or
(b) Working as a guard dog on commercial property:
(i) Securely enclosed on the property by a fence or other barrier sufficient to
prevent the escape of the dog and the entry of children; and
(ii) Defending that property against a person who was committing an offence.
PART 4: DANGEROUS ANIMALS
Dangerous Animals
33.
(1)
A dog is dangerous where it is proven in Court that:
(a) The animal, without provocation, in a vicious or menacing manner, chased or
approached a person or domestic animal in an apparent attitude of attack;
(b) The animal has a known propensity, tendency or disposition to attack without
provocation, to cause injury or to otherwise threaten the safety of persons or domestic
animals;
(c) The animal has, without provocation, bitten, inflicted injury, assaulted or otherwise
attacked a person or domestic animal; or
(d) The animal is owned primarily or in part for the purpose of fighting or is trained for
fighting.
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
COPY
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(2) For the purpose of this Section, an animal is presumed not to have been provoked, in the
absence of evidence to the contrary.
(3) No dog shall be considered dangerous while the dog was:
(a) acting in the performance of police work; or
(b) working as a guard dog on commercial property:
(i) securely enclosed on property by a fence or other barrier sufficient to prevent
the escape of the dog and the entry of children; and
(ii) defending that property against a person who was committing an offence.
Fighting Dogs Considered Dangerous
34. Notwithstanding the generality of Section 33, a dog is dangerous where it is proved that the
dog is owned primarily, or in part, for the purpose of dog fighting or is trained for dog fighting.
Dangerous Animal Hearings
35. (1) If a complaint is made that an animal is dangerous, a Judge shall hold a hearing to determine
if, based upon the evidence adduced at the hearing, the animal is, in fact, dangerous.
(2) Notice of the hearing referred to in subsection (1) shall be served upon the owner of the
animal in accordance with Section 51.
(3) Where an owner does not appear at the time and place appointed for the hearing after
having been notified of that time or place, the Judge may proceed ex parte to hear and
determine the proceedings in the absence of the owner as fully and effectively as if the
owner had appeared.
(4) If the Judge is satisfied, on the evidence, that the animal is dangerous, the Judge shall make
an Order embodying all of the following terms:
(a) If the owner removes the animal from the owners property, the owner shall muzzle
and leash it in accordance with the criteria prescribed in Section 42 and keep it under
direct control and supervision;
(b) The owner shall inoculate the animal against rabies in accordance with the
provisions of Section 43;
(c) The owner shall report the sale or other disposition of the animal to the Bylaw
Services Office;
(d) Where the animal is moved to a different city or municipality, the owner shall notify
the Bylaw Services Office of the City of Yorkton and the Bylaw Services Office of
the municipality where the animal is being moved to;
(e) Where the animal is to be sold or given away, the owner shall:
(i) Notify any prospective owner that the animal has been declared dangerous,
before it is sold or given away; and
(ii) Notify the Bylaw Services Office of the name, address and telephone
number of any new owner of the animal;
(f) If the animal is unlicensed, the owner shall purchase the requisite license for the
animal within ten days of the date of the Order;
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(g) The owner shall have the animal micro chipped in accordance with Section 44.
(5) An order pursuant to subsection (4) may also include any or all of the following terms:
(a) The owner shall keep the animal in an enclosure which complies with the criteria
prescribed in Section 45;
(b) The owner shall obtain and keep in effect liability insurance in an amount of not less
than $300,000.00 for any bodily injury to or death of any person or domestic animal,
or for damage to property, caused by the animal;
(c) The owner shall display a sign, which complies with the criteria prescribed in Section
46, on the owners property warning of the presence of the animal and shall continue
to display that sign in good condition so long as the animal is present on the property;
(d) The owner shall have the animal spayed or neutered; and/or
(e) The owner shall take such other measures as the Judge considers appropriate.
(6) Notwithstanding subsection (4), a Judge may, in the alternative; order that the animal be
destroyed or otherwise disposed of at the owner's expense and shall give directions with
respect to the destruction or other disposition.
(7) Where an Order has been made pursuant to subsection (5) against the owner, the owner
may apply to the Judge who made the Order, that compliance with the provisions of clause
(5)(b) be waived.
(8) On an application pursuant to subsection (7), the Judge may waive compliance with clause
(5)(b), on any terms and conditions that the Judge considers reasonable, where the Judge
is satisfied that the owner is unable to comply with the requirements of that clause for a
reason other than the owners financial circumstances.
(9) A person desiring to appeal an Order pursuant to this section shall, within seven days of
the order being issued, file a Notice of Appeal with Her Majesty's Court of Queen's Bench,
and the provisions of Part XXVII of the Criminal Code apply with any necessary
modification.
(10) A Judge may also impose penalties for Offences noted in Section 36.
Offences and Penalties for Dangerous Animals
36. (1) Any person who owns a dog for the purpose of dog fighting, or trains, torments, badgers,
baits or otherwise uses a dog for the purpose of causing or encouraging the dog to make
unprovoked attacks on persons or domestic animals is guilty of an offence.
(2) Any person who displays a prescribed sign warning of the presence of a dangerous animal
and who is not acting in accordance with an Order made pursuant to subsection 34(5)(c) or
has not received the permission of the City to display the sign is guilty of an offense.
(3) Any person who does not comply with any part of an Order made against him or her
pursuant to Section 35(4), (5) or (6) is guilty of an offence.
(4) Any person who owns an animal that, without provocation, attacks, assaults, wounds, bites,
injures or kills a person or domestic animal, is guilty of an offence.
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(5) A person who is guilty of an offence pursuant to this section is liable on summary
conviction:
(a) In the case of an individual, to a fine not exceeding $10,000.00, or imprisonment
for not more than one year, or both;
(b) In the case of a corporation, to a fine not exceeding $25,000.00, or imprisonment
of the directors of the corporation for not more than one year, or both.
Order Binds Subsequent Owner
37. An Order issued pursuant to Section 35 continues to apply if the animal is sold or given to a
new owner or is moved to a different municipality.
Execution of Destruction Order
38. (1) Unless the owner otherwise agrees, every Order for destruction of an animal shall state that
it shall not be implemented for eight days.
(2) Where an Appeal is taken against an Order for the destruction of an animal, the application
of the Order is stayed pending the disposition of the Appeal.
(3) Regardless of the outcome of the Appeal, the owner shall be responsible for the payment
of the costs of impoundment of the animal pending the hearing.
(4) Where the Judge on Appeal overturns the Order for destruction of the animal, the animal
shall be released to the owner after the owner has paid the costs of impoundment of the
animal pending the hearing.
Destruction by Peace Officers
39. (1) A Peace Officer as defined by the Criminal Code may destroy any animal that the Officer
finds injuring or viciously attacking a person or domestic animal.
(2) Where the Officer acted in good faith, a Peace Officer who destroys an animal pursuant to
subsection (1) is not liable to the owner for the value of the animal.
Entry and Search
40. If a Peace Officer as defined by the Criminal Code, an Animal Control Officer or a designated
officer has reasonable grounds to believe that an animal that is dangerous or has been ordered
to be destroyed or otherwise disposed of is in or on any premises, the Peace Officer, Animal
Control Officer or designated officer may enter the premises and search for and impound the
animal in accordance with Section 327 of The Cities Act.
Charges May Be Added to Property Taxes
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41. (1) In accordance with Section 333(2)(c) of The Cities Act, if a person owes the City for costs
incurred by the City with respect to a dangerous animal, the City may add the amount
owing to the tax roll of any parcel of land for which the person is the assessed person.
(2) If an amount is added to the tax roll of a parcel of land pursuant to subsection (1), the
amount:
(a) Is deemed for all purposes to be a tax imposed pursuant to The Cities Act from the date
it was added to the tax roll; and
(b) Forms a lien against the parcel of land in favour of the City from the date it was added
to the tax roll.
Criteria for Muzzle and Leash for Dangerous Animals
42. (1) Where an animal that has been declared dangerous pursuant to Section 35 is removed from
the owners property, the animal shall be equipped with a muzzle and be secured by a leash
in accordance with the following criteria:
(a) The animal shall be fitted with a collar or harness for the body that is properly placed
and fitted on the animal;
(b) The movement of the animal shall be controlled by a person by means of a leash
attached to the collar or harness of the animal;
(c) The leash shall not exceed 1.2 meters in length and shall be constructed of a material
having a tensile strength of at least 40 kilograms;
(d) The muzzle on the animal shall be property fitted on the animal to prevent it from biting
any animal or person;
(e) The muzzle shall be fitted on the animal in a manner that it will not interfere with the
vision or respiration of the animal.
Requirements for Inoculation of Animals
43. (1) Where an animal has been declared to be dangerous pursuant to Section 35, the owner of
the animal shall, at the owners expense and within ten days of the date of the Order of the
Judge declaring the animal to be dangerous, have the animal inoculated against rabies by a
veterinarian and provide proof to the Animal Control Officer that the dog has been
inoculated.
(2) Where the owner of an animal provides proof that the animal has been inoculated against
rabies during the period of 12 months prior to the date of the Order, the owner is not
required to comply with subsection (1) until the expiration of 12 months from the date of
inoculation of the animal.
(3) The owner of an animal shall have the animal inoculated within each 12 month period
following the inoculation mentioned in subsection (1) or (2) during the lifetime of the
animal.
Requirements for Microchipping of Dangerous Animals
44. Where an animal has been declared dangerous pursuant to Section 35, the owner of the animal
shall, at the owner's expense and within ten days of the date of the Order, cause the animal to
be microchipped by a veterinarian and provide proof of the same to the Animal Control Officer.
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Requirements for Enclosures for Dangerous Animals
45. (1) If a Judge orders, pursuant to Section 35, that an animal be kept in an enclosure, the
enclosure must comply with the following criteria:
(a) The enclosure shall be constructed of wood or any other building material of sufficient
strength and in a manner adequate to:
(i) Confine the animal; and
(ii) Prevent the entry of children;
(b) The entrances and other areas by which entry to or exit from the enclosure may be made
shall be locked or fastened in a manner adequate to prevent the animal from escaping
from the enclosure;
(c) The enclosure shall be at least 3 meters in length, 1.5 meters in width and 1.8 meters in
height;
(d) The enclosure shall have a top secured to the sides of the enclosure;
(e) The enclosure shall:
(i) Have a floor secured to the sides of the enclosure; or
(ii) The sides of the enclosure shall be embedded in the ground to a depth of at
least 0.6 meters;
(f) The enclosure shall:
(i) Provide protection from the elements for the animal;
(ii) Provide adequate light and ventilation for the animal; and
(iii) Be kept in a sanitary and clean condition.
Requirement for Signage
46. (1) Where an animal has been declared dangerous pursuant to Section 35, the owner of the
animal shall, within ten days of the date of the Order of the Judge declaring the animal to
be dangerous, display a sign on his or her premises warning of the presence of the animal
in the form illustrated in Schedule "I".
(2) A sign required by subsection (1) shall be placed at each entrance to the premises where
the animal is kept and on the enclosure in which the animal is confined.
(3) A sign required by subsection (1) shall be clearly visible and capable of being read from
any adjacent public road.
PART 5: CONTROL AND REGULATION OF EXOTIC, AND WILD AND CERTAIN
DOMESTICATED ANIMALS
Keeping of Bees
46.1 (1) (a) No person shall own or harbour honeybees without a valid beekeeping licence for
the current year and pay the corresponding fee as contained in Schedule "C".
(b) The Bylaw & Safety Supervisor may refuse to issue or may revoke a licence issued
pursuant to this section by providing written notice to the licensee.
(2) No person shall keep more than one active hive with six supers on one property.
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
COPY
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(3) All honey beekeepers must adhere to The Apiaries Act and The Apiaries Regulations.
(4) The hive must be set up in the rear of the property.
(5) No person shall place the hive within three (3) metres of any property line or a 6 foot
hedge/fence must be between neighbouring property lines.
(6) All beekeepers must:
(a) Place the hive entrance to be directed away from adjacent residential properties.
(b) Not be within 25 metres from any public space or school property.
(c) Provide a water source within the backyard for the bees.
(d) Provide a standard of care to prevent disease and swarms.
(e) Notify all surrounding neighbours within a 25 metre radius of their property with
a letter provided from the City of Yorkton.
(f) Notify all neighbours adjacent to their property with a letter provided from the
City of Yorkton to notify them prior to honey extraction days.
(g) Take the Saskatchewan Beekeeping Development Commission Introductory
Course and provide documentation to the Bylaw & Safety Supervisor that this was
completed successfully.
(h) Register as a beekeeper, as per The Apiaries Act and Regulations, with the
Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture.
(7) Beekeepers must make the hive available for inspection when requested.
Keeping of Hens
46.2 (1) (a) No person shall own or harbour hens without a valid urban hen licence
for the current year and pay the corresponding fee as contained in Schedule "C".
(b) Urban hen licences shall only be issued to residential properties.
(c) All hen keepers must obtain a Saskatchewan Premises Identification (PID) and
provide a copy to the Bylaw & Safety Supervisor within 30 days of hen keepers
licence being issued.
(d) The Bylaw & Safety Supervisor may refuse to issue or may revoke a licence
issued pursuant to this section by providing written notice to the licensee. In the
event of an Urban Hen licence revocation, the hen keeper will be given fourteen (14)
days to rehome the hens.
(2) No person shall keep more than five (5) hens on one property.
(3) No person shall keep chicks or roosters.
(4) No person may sell eggs, hen manure, chicken meat or any other product derived from
the keeping of hens.
(5) All hen keepers must:
(a) Adhere to all Ministry of Agriculture requirements and regulations.
(b) Follow biosecurity procedures recommended by the Canadian Food Inspection
Agency.
(c) Adhere to the National Farm Animal Care Council - Code of Practice for the
Care and Handling of Hatching Eggs, Breeders, Chickens and Turkey's.
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
Amended by
Bylaw No.
3/2026
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(6) Hen keepers are responsible for the animal health and welfare and will be subject to
The Animal Health Act, The Animal Health Regulations, and The Animal Protection
Act.
Coop and Hen Run Requirements
(7) (a) The coop and run area must be approved at the time of application by the Bylaw
& Safety Supervisor or designate.
(b) The coop and run must meet the requirements of the Zoning Bylaw and the
Building Bylaw.
(c) If electrical power is hardwired to the coop or run, all electrical permits must be
obtained.
(d) If a heating source is installed or used in a coop or run, it must be installed,
maintained, and operated in accordance with the Fire Prevention Bylaw.
(e) Any subsequent changes to the coop and run after initial approval must be
approved prior to changes occurring.
Coop and Hen Run Size Requirements
(8) (a) The coop must be a minimum of 0.37 metres squared floor area per hen.
(b) The run must be a minimum of 0.92 metres squared floor area per hen.
(c) The coop and run must not exceed a combined area of 18 metres squared.
(d) The run must not exceed 1.8 metres in height.
(e) The run must include any combination of vegetated or bare earth.
(f) The coop must not exceed the maximum accessory building height of the Zoning
Bylaw.
(g) The coop and run must be fully enclosed and the outside run must be closed in
on the top.
(h) A minimum of one perch per hen must be provided, with the perch at least 15 cm
long.
(i) A minimum of one nest must be provided.
Coop and Hen Run Location
(9) (a) The coop must meet the minimum yard setbacks of the Zoning Bylaw and be a
minimum of three metres from a neighbouring dwelling;
(b) The run must be a minimum of one metre from any property line and a
minimum of three metres from a neighbours dwelling.
(c) Coops and runs must not be located in the front yard of the property, as defined
by the Zoning Bylaw.
(d) Coops and runs must be located within a fully fenced yard.
(e) Coops and runs must be cleaned of all manure and wet shavings on a weekly
basis.
Failure to adhere to coop and run conditions noted in Section 46.2(6) to 46.2(8) is deemed
an offence.
(10) A person who keeps hens must provide hens with food, water, shelter, light,
ventilation, heat in the winter months, veterinary care, and opportunities for essential
behaviours such as scratching, dust-bathing, and roosting to maintain good health for
the hens.
(11) No person shall allow hens to be outside the enclosed coop and run area.
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(12) Hens shall be kept in the coop between the hours of 9:00 pm to 7:00 am (overnight).
(13) If manure is disposed in residential garbage bins, the manure must be bagged.
(14) Hens cannot be butchered or euthanized on a residential property. If a hen is going to
be butchered, it must be transported to an appropriate location to be butchered or
euthanized and dispose of hens lawfully.
(15) Deceased hens cannot be disposed of in a residential garbage can. Deceased hens
must be disposed of at the landfill or at a vet clinic.
(16) Hen keepers must make the coop and pen area available for inspection when requested.
Owning and Harbouring Exotic, and Wild and Certain Domesticated Animals
47. (1) No person may own or harbour any animal, or hybrid of any animal, of the kind listed in
Schedule "K" for any purpose.
(2) No person may buy, sell, trade, or exhibit any animal or hybrid of any animal of the kind
listed in Schedule "K".
(3) Any person found responsible for allowing an animal or hybrid of any animal of the kind
listed in Schedule "K" to be at large will be guilty of an offence and liable on summary
conviction to the penalty contained in Schedule "L".
48. (1) It shall be unlawful to keep any bird in the Columbidae family (such as pigeons, etc.), live
poultry, excluding hens, and/or livestock, and/or bees, within the boundaries of the City
of Yorkton, except:
(a) On the premises of a recognized industry in the business of handling livestock;
(b) On the premises of the Yorkton Agricultural and Industrial Exhibition Association
Ltd. in connection with shows, fairs, and/or exhibitions held with the permission of,
or under the auspices of such association;
(c) Upon receiving written approval from the Council or the City Manager for periods
not to exceed 24 hours.
Exemptions to Owning and Harbouring Exotic, and Wild and Certain Domesticated Animals
49. (1) Section 47(1) shall not prohibit the harbouring of an animal or a hybrid of an animal of the
kind listed in Schedule "K" in the following places or circumstances:
(a) On the premises of the Yorkton Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals;
(b) In a veterinary hospital under the care of a licensed veterinarian;
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
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(c) By anyone holding a license under any statute of the Legislature of Saskatchewan or
the Government of Canada, which permits the keeping of animals under stated
conditions.
(d) Upon receiving written approval from City Council or the City Manager.
PART 6: PENALTIES AND OFFENCES
Offences, Penalties and Order to Comply
50. (1) Subject to subsection (2), any person who contravenes any provision of this Bylaw is guilty
of an offence punishable on summary conviction by a fine in an amount not less than
($100.00) dollars and not exceeding:
(a) $10,000.00 dollars in the case of an individual;
(b) $25,000 dollars in the case of a corporation;
(2) Where an Animal Control Officer or the Peace Officer has reason to believe that a person
has contravened any provision of this Bylaw, that Officer may issue a Notice of Violation
or a Summary Offence Ticket to the person and/or an Order to Comply.
(3) A Notice of Violation may indicate that the City will accept voluntary payment at Yorkton
City Hall for the amount listed, or in the case of a Summary Offence Ticket, that the City
will accept voluntary payment at the Provincial Court House.
(4) Voluntary payment amounts for voluntary payment to avoid prosecution for the offences
in this Bylaw are found in Schedule "L".
(5) Notwithstanding subsection (2), where an Animal Control Officer or Peace Officer has
reason to believe that a person has contravened any provision of this Bylaw and the dog
has been declared a Nuisance Dog, the voluntary payment shall be double the amount
shown in Schedule "L".
(6) Where a Notice of Violation is issued for a contravention under Section 14, the prescribed
amount may be reduced by $100.00, upon completion of a "Declaration to Successfully
Complete Obedience Class", as shown in Schedule "F". Failure to comply with the
conditions of the Declaration will constitute an Offence.
(7) A Judge, in addition to the penalties provided in this section, may if he or she considers
the offence sufficiently serious, direct or order the owner of the dog to stop the animal
from doing mischief or causing the disturbance or nuisance complained of, to have the
animal removed from the City, or have the animal destroyed.
(8) A Judge, after convicting the owner of a dog of an offence under Section 35(1) may, in
addition to any other penalties imposed or orders made, and without further notice or
hearing, declare the subject dog a dangerous dog.
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
COPY
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(9) An Animal Control Officer may serve an owner or occupant of private property with a
notice to remove all animal feces from the property within 24 hours of service of the
notice in accordance with Section 51.
(10) The City may remove the feces from the property if:
(a) The person to whom the request is made fails to remove the feces within 24 hours;
or
(b) After reasonable inquiry, the whereabouts of the owner or occupant of the property
cannot be determined.
(11) If the City carries out the work under subsection (10), the costs and expenses incurred
are a debt due to the City.
(12) Should hens and/or coop be ordered to be removed, all costs and associated
expenditures related to the removal or rehoming of the hens shall be the responsibility of
the hen licence holder and the property owner.
(13) Failure to adhere to the requirements of the Section 46.2, may result in seizure and/or
impoundment of hens.
Service of Orders
51. (1) Except where otherwise provided in this Bylaw, any notice, Order or other document
required by this Bylaw to be given or served may be served:
(a) Personally;
(b) By registered mail to the last known address of the person being served;
(c) By hand delivering a copy of the notice, order or document to the last known address
of the person being served; or
(d) By posting a copy of the notice, order or document at the land, building or structure or
on a vehicle to which the notice, order or document relates.
(2) A notice, order or document served in accordance with clause (1)(b) is deemed to have
been served on the tenth day after the date of its mailing, unless the delivery date shown
on the signed post office receipt card is a date earlier than the tenth day, then the notice,
Order or document is deemed delivered on the delivery date.
(3) A notice, Order or document served in accordance with clause (1)(c) or (d) is deemed to
have been served on the day after the date of its delivery of posting.
(4) If service cannot be effected in accordance with subsection (1):
(a) The notice, order or other document may be served by publishing it in two issues of a
newspaper circulating in the city; and
(b) For the purposes of clause (a), the second publication must appear at least three days
before any action is taken with respect to the matter to which the notice, order or
document relates.
Amended by
Bylaw No.
10/2022
Amended by
Bylaw No.
3/2026
COPY
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Severability
52. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or other portion of this Bylaw is for any
reason held invalid or unconstitutional by a Court of competent jurisdiction, that portion will
be deemed a separate, distinct and independent provision and the holding of the Court will
not affect the validity of the remaining portions of the Bylaw.
Repeal of Former Bylaw
53. Bylaw No. 23/2011, 5/2012, and 23/2003 are hereby repealed.
Effective Date of Bylaw
54. (1) This Bylaw shall come into force and take effect on the day of final passing thereof,
excepting Schedule "C", which shall come into effect on January 1st, 2019.
1. An existing license issued under the Animal Control Bylaw No. 23/2011 remains valid
until the term of such license expires.
___________________________________
MAYOR
___________________________________
CITY CLERK
Introduced and read a first time this 2nd day of April, A.D. 2018.
Read a second time this 2nd day of April, A.D. 2018.
Read a third time and adopted this 2nd day of April, A.D. 2018.
COPY
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SCHEDULE "A"
CAT TRAP PERMIT
Date: ____________________________
Trap No. _________________________
The undersigned agrees to the following terms and conditions:
to place the cat trap on his or her property which is within the City of Yorkton;
to personally check the cat trap every two (2) hours while the trap is set;
in the event a cat is trapped, to immediately deliver the cat to Yorkton Society for the
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals at 79 Seventh Avenue South (Phone No. 783-4080). In
the event that the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is closed, the cat may
be held until the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals re-opens, but in no event
for longer than twenty-four (24) hours. Where a cat is held, the undersigned is responsible
for the humane treatment and shelter of the cat including feeding and watering. A captured
cat should be left in the trap and placed in a shed, garage, basement or other place that is
warm, dry and secure with a blanket placed over the trap to pacify the animal. Do not
attempt to remove an unfamiliar cat from the trap - this will be done by the Poundkeeper.
If the undersigned cannot comply with this condition, the trapped cat must be freed
unharmed.
to ensure that no harm comes to any trapped cat while in their possession including
exposure to inclement weather;
cat traps are not to be used when the temperature falls below 0 degrees Celsius or rises
above 25 degrees Celsius;
an Animal Control Officer may enter the property of the undersigned to ensure the trap is
being used properly;
to advise the Poundkeeper or Animal Control Officer of the ownership of any cat trapped,
if known;
to be responsible for the trap, including the cost of repair or replacement if damaged, lost
or stolen. The trap is to be returned in a good and clean condition;
traps must not be set on statutory holidays as the Animal Control Office is closed;
the trap is to be returned to the Poundkeeper two days after issuance.
COPY
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* IT IS A CRIMINAL OFFENCE TO HARM ANY DOMESTIC ANIMAL
Address of intended location of trap: ____________________________________
I understand and accept all liability which may arise in connection with the use of this cat trap
while it is in my possession and will save and indemnify the City of Yorkton for all such liability.
Signature: _________________________________________________________
Name of Complainant: _______________________________________________
Address of Complainant: _____________________________________________
TRAP RETURNED
Date: _____________________________________________________________
Received by: _______________________________________________________
Remarks: __________________________________________________________
YORKTON SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION
OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS INC.
79 - Seventh Avenue South
P.O. Box 87, Yorkton, Saskatchewan S3N 2V6
783-4080
Hours of Operation
Monday - Friday 12:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Thursday Evenings 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Saturday 12:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
COPY
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SCHEDULE "B"
CHARGES FOR THE RELEASE OF IMPOUNDED CATS
Impoundment Charges
Neutered/spayed cat - 1st Offence
$20.00
Neutered/spayed cat - 2nd and Subsequent Offence
within a 12 month period
$40.00
Unneutered/unspayed cat - each offense
$50.00
Housing Charges
Per day or part thereof
$8.00 minimum
CHARGES FOR THE RELEASE OF IMPOUNDED DOGS
a) First Offence:
$50.00 plus minimum $10.00 per day or part thereof, plus license fee if unlicensed.
b) Second and Subsequent Offences Within One 12 Month Period:
$100.00 plus minimum $10.00 per day or part thereof.
COPY
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SCHEDULE "C"
DOG LICENCE FEES
DOG LICENSE
ANNUAL
5 YEAR
PERMANENT
Puppy - all dogs between the age of 6
months and 1 year at the time the license
is purchased; such dog license being
valid for the current licensing period
$10.00
Not Available
Not Available
All dogs Spayed or Neutered
$10.00
$30.00
$50.00
All dogs not spayed or neutered
$20.00
$60.00
$100.00
All dogs declared Aggressive or
Dangerous
$300.00
Not Available
Not Available
Service Dog
No Charge
No Charge
No Charge
Replacement Dog Tag
$5.00
$5.00
$5.00
BEE LICENCE FEES
Annual Urban Beekeeping Licence - $50.00
URBAN HEN LICENCE FEES
Annual Urban Hen Licence - $75.00
Amended by
Bylaw No.
3/2026
COPY
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SCHEDULE "D"
OFF-LEASH DOG PARK LOCATION
Wiggly Field Dog Park
COPY
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SCHEDULE "E"
DECLARATION TO HAVE DOG VACCINATED
I, ______________________________of ____________________________________________
Hereby declare that the dog, which is released to me by the SPCA on this date, will be vaccinated
for rabies as required by the City of Yorkton Animal Control Bylaw within 30 days.
I acknowledge that failure to comply with this declaration may result in prosecution under Section
50 21(2)(f) of the Animal Control Bylaw.
________________________________________
_________________________________________
Dog Owner
Description of Dog
________________________________________
_________________________________________
Address
Date
_________________________________________
_________________________________________
Witness
COPY
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SCHEDULE "F"
DECLARATION TO SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETE OBEDIENCE CLASS
I, ______________________________of ____________________________________________
Hereby declare that I will enroll my dog, listed below, in an Obedience Class from a
reputable/certified trainer and provide the Animal Control Officer the start and end date the
Obedience Class within 30 days.
I will provide the Animal Control Officer a copy of the Certificate of Successful Completion of
the Obedience Class within 30 days of the completion of the Class.
I acknowledge that failure to comply with this declaration may result in prosecution under Section
50 of the Animal Control Bylaw.
________________________________________
_________________________________________
Dog Name
Dog Breed
________________________________________
_________________________________________
Description of Dog
Dog License Number
________________________________________
Dog Owner Name (Printed)
________________________________________
Address
_________________________________________
Address
________________________________________
_________________________________________
Owner Signature
Date
_________________________________________
Witness
COPY
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SCHEDULE "G"
PROHIBITED AREAS FOR DOGS
All Public Playgrounds
Deer Park Municipal Golf Course
All Sports Fields
COPY
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SCHEDULE "H"
Aggressive Dog
on
Premises
COPY
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SCHEDULE "I"
Dangerous Dog
on
Premises
COPY
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SCHEDULE "J"
ENCLOSURES FOR AGGRESSIVE/DANGEROUS DOGS
DIMENSIONS (minimum dimensions)
3 meters in length
1.5 meters in width
1.8 meters in height
LOCATION OF ENCLOSURE
located in rear yard only
no closer than 1 meter to the property line
no closer than 1.2 meters from any other building on your property
no closer than 5 meters from a dwelling unit located on an adjacent property
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
must be constructed of wood or any other building material of sufficient strength and in a
manner adequate to prevent the animal from jumping, climbing or digging out of the
enclosure
the roof and floor must be secured to the sides of the enclosure
the sides of the enclosure must be embedded in the ground to a depth of at least 0.6 meters
the entrances to the enclosure must be locked or fastened in a manner adequate of prevent
the animal from escaping, and prevent the entry of unauthorized persons
must provide adequate light, ventilation and protection from the elements for the animal
must be kept in a sanitary and clean condition
COPY
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SCHEDULE "K"
BEING A LIST OF ANIMALS THE KEEPING OF WHICH IS
PROHIBITED WITHIN THE CITY OF YORKTON LIST OF
PROHIBITED ANIMALS
All Arachnids dangerous to humans (such as scorpions and tarantulas, except tarantulas of
the genera Aphonopelma, Avicularia and Grammostola)
All Artiodactylus Ungulates, except (such as domestic goats, sheep, cattle, and pigs)
All Bats
All Canids, except the domestic dog
All Crocodilians (such as alligators, crocodiles, and caimans)
All Edentates (such as anteaters, sloths, and armadillos)
All Elephants
All Felids, except the domestic cat
All Hyaenas
All Marsupials (such as kangaroos and opossums)
All Mustelids (such as skunks, weasles, otters, and badgers) except the domestic ferret
All non-human Primates (such as gorillas and monkeys)
All Perissodactylus Ungulates, exept except the domestic horse, mule, and ass
All Pinnipeds (such as seals, fur seals, and walruses)
All Procyonids (such as raccoons, coatis, and cacomistles)
All Raptors, diurnal and nocturnal (such as eagles, hawks, and owls)
All Ratite Birds (such as ostriches, rheas, and cassowaries)
All snakes of the families Pythonidae and Boidae
All Ursids (bears)
All venomous Reptiles and Amphibians
All Viverrids (such as mongooses, civets, and genets).
Examples of animals of a particular prohibited group are given in parentheses. They are
examples only and shall not be construed as limiting the generality of the group.
COPY
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SCHEDULE "L"
AMOUNTS WHICH WILL BE ACCEPTED BY CITY
IN LIEU OF PROSECUTION
OFFENCE UNDER
OFFENCE
AMOUNT
Section 3 (1)
Allowing cat to become a nuisance
$100.00
Section 3.1
Exceeding maximum number of cats
$200.00
Section 7 (1)
Failure to clean, alter, demolish or
Relocate cat run
$200.00
Section 8
Failure to remove defecation upon
request
$100.00
Section 9
Unlicensed dog
$100.00
Section 10 (10)
False information
$100.00
Section 10.1(1)
Exceeding maximum number of dogs
$100.00
Section 10.1(2)
Canadian Kennel Club member exceeding
maximum number of dogs
$100.00
Section 11 (2)
Dog was not wearing dog tag off the
owner's property
$100.00
Section 12
Dog at large
$100.00
Section 13
Upset waste receptacle
$100.00
Section 14(1) (a)
Biting a person(s)
$200.00
(b)
Injure a person(s)
$200.00
(c)
Chase or otherwise threaten a person(s)
$150.00
(d)
Cause damage to property or other animals
$200.00
(e)
Cause death to a person or other animal $400.00
Section 15 (1)
Permitting a dog to become a nuisance
$100.00
(2)
Disobeying Judges order
$200.00
Section 16 (1)
Defecation - property other than owner
$100.00
(2)
Defecation - owner's property not cleaned
daily
$100.00
(3)
Allowing animal feces to accumulate on
property
$150.00
Subsequent Offence committed within twelve (12) months of the first offence -
DOUBLE THE ABOVE SCHEDULE
COPY
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SCHEDULE "L" Continued
AMOUNTS WHICH WILL BE ACCEPTED BY CITY
IN LIEU OF PROSECUTION
OFFENCE UNDER
OFFENCE
AMOUNT
Section 19 (3)
Interference with enforcement
$500.00
Section 21 (2)
Fail to license or vaccinate dog pursuant
to Section 21(2)
$100.00
Section 24 (4)
Failure to clean, alter, demolish or relocate
dog run
$200.00
Section 27 (1)
Permitting a dog in prohibited areas
$100.00
Section 28 (a)
Untie or free an animal
$100.00
(b)
Willfully open gate or door
$100.00
(c)
Tease; throw things at dog
$100.00
Section 29
Failed to keep female dog in heat housed
$100.00
Section 31
Failure to allow dog to be isolated
$100.00
Section 32 (2)(a)
Failure to prevent aggressive dog biting,
injuring, chasing or attacking a person or
animal whether on the property of the owner
or not
$400.00
(2)(a)
Failure to prevent aggressive dog causing
death to a person or domestic animal, whether
on the property of the owner or not
$500.00
(b)(i)
Aggressive dog not fenced and chained or
signed
$300.00
(ii)
Aggressive dog in dwelling not under control
by person over 16 years of age
$400.00
(c)(i)
Aggressive dog not muzzled
$400.00
(ii)
Aggressive dog not harnessed or leashed
$400.00
(4)
Failure to notify change of address
$300.00
(5)
Failure to report sale, move or giving
away of aggressive dog $300.00
(6)
Failure to erect enclosure within 30 days
$300.00
Subsequent Offence committed within twelve (12) months of the first offence -
DOUBLE THE ABOVE SCHEDULE
COPY
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SCHEDULE "L" Continued
AMOUNTS WHICH WILL BE ACCEPTED BY CITY
IN LIEU OF PROSECUTION
OFFENCE UNDER
OFFENCE
AMOUNT
Section 36 (1)
Own a dog for dog fighting
$500.00
(2)
Failure to post dangerous dog signs
$400.00
(3)
Failure to comply with Order
$500.00
(4)
Failure to prevent dangerous dog from
attacking, biting, chasing, or injuring
another person or domestic animal
$500.00
(4)
Failure to prevent dangerous dog from
killing a person or domestic animal
$600.00
Section 46.1 (1)
Keeping honeybees without licence
$200.00
Section 46.1 (2)
Exceeding number of hives or supers
$100.00
Section 46.2 (1)(a)
Keeping urban hens without a licence
$200.00
(2)
Exceeding number of permitted hens
$100.00
(3)
Keeping chicks or roosters
$150.00
(9)(e)
Failing to clean manure and wet shavings
on a weekly basis
$100.00
(11)
Allowing hens outside the enclosed coop
and run area
$100.00
(12)
Failing to keep hens in coop during
designated hours
$100.00
(14)
Failing to have a hen butchered at
appropriate location
$200.00
(15)
Disposing of hens in a residential garbage
$100.00
Section 47 (1)
Owning and harbouring Exotic
and/or Wild Animals
$400.00
(2)
Buying, selling, trading or exhibiting Exotic
and/or Wild Animals $500.00
(3)
Exotic and Wild Animals at large
$200.00
Section 48
Owning a Columbidae family bird, poultry,
(excluding chickens) or Livestock
$200.00
Section 50 (6)
Failure to comply with the conditions of the
Declaration to Successfully Complete
Obedience Class
$150.00
Subsequent Offence committed within twelve (12) months of the first offence -
DOUBLE THE ABOVE SCHEDULE
Amended by
Bylaw No.
3/2026
COPY