Chapter 14 - AnimalsChapter 14
ANIMALS*
Article I. In General
Sec. 14-1. Porpoises, capture and transportation prohibited.
Sec. 14-2. Possession, sale, etc., of certain fish prohibited.
Secs. 14-3—14-25. Reserved.
Article II. Animal Control
Sec. 14-26. Title.
Sec. 14-27. Adoption by reference, construction and purpose.
Sec. 14-28. Definitions.
Sec. 14-29. Authority of County Manager or Designee; Interference with
Officer in Performance of Duty.
Sec. 14-30. Enforcement.
Sec. 14-31. Complaints.
Sec. 14-32. Rabies control.
Sec. 14-33. County Rabies/License certificate; tags, vaccination required.
Sec. 14-34. Keeping/adopting stray animals.
Sec. 14-35. General violations.
Sec. 14-36. Animal care; manner of keeping.
Sec. 14-37. Cruelty to animals.
Sec. 14-38. Dangerous Dogs; Procedures.
Sec. 14-39. Standards of Care.
Sec. 14-40. Penalties.
Sec. 14-41. Disposition of Impounded Animals.
Sec. 14-42. Wild Animals.
Sec. 14-43. Psittacine birds.
Sec. 14-44. Community cats.
Sec. 14-45. Injury to animals by motor vehicles; reporting requirement.
Sec. 14-46. Disposal of bodies of dead animals.
Sec. 14-47. Tampering with animal traps or capture devices.
Sec. 14-48. Livestock.
Secs. 14-49, 14-50. Reserved.
Article III. Equine Infectious Anemia
Sec. 14-51. Definitions.
Sec. 14-52. Construction.
Sec. 14-53. Adoption of references.
Sec. 14-54. Prohibited activities.
Secs. 14-55—14-75. Reserved.
Article IV. Standards of Care for Animal-Related Businesses and
Organizations; Breeders; and Rodeos
Sec. 14-76. Purpose of Ordinance.
Sec. 14-77. General Standards of Care.
*Cross references—Health and sanitation, ch. 66; discharge of firearms or hunting in subdivisions, § 94-62.
Land Development Code reference—Prohibited animals in residential districts, § 2.6.23.
Special Act reference—Special Acts pertaining to animals, ch. 210.
State law references—Authority to act in the common interest of the people of the county and exercise all powers and
privileges not specifically prohibited (all in a manner not inconsistent with law), F.S. § 125.01(1)(w); livestock at large, F.S. ch.
588; damage by dogs, F.S. ch. 767; cruelty to animals, F.S. ch. 828.
CD14:1Supp. No. 122
Sec. 14-78. Proper Animal Husbandry.
Sec. 14-79. Regulations for Animal-Related Businesses and Organizations.
Sec. 14-80. Regulations for Rodeos.
Sec. 14-81. Regulations for Breeders and Pet Shops.
Sec. 14-82. Penalties.
Secs. 14-83—14-105. Reserved.
Article V. Animal Abuser Registry
Sec. 14-106. Title.
Sec. 14-107. Definitions.
Sec. 14-108. Establishing an abuser registry.
Sec. 14-109. Abuser registration requirements.
Sec. 14-110. Prohibition on contact with animals.
Sec. 14-111. Animal shelters, pet sellers, private citizens, or other entities
prohibited from transferring animal ownership to abusers.
Sec. 14-112. Penalties.
Secs. 14-113—14-135. Reserved.
COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:2Supp. No. 122
A § 14-25
ANIMALS
ARTICLE I. IN GENERAL hybrid of the white amur.Accordingly,the prohibi-
tions contained in subsection (a) of this section
Sec. 14-1. Porpoises, capture and shall not apply to the introduction of the triploid
transportation prohibited. hybrid of the white amur where such activities
(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to are conducted in accordance with the terms of a
capture or molest a mammalian dolphin, validly issued and valid permit from said corn-
hereinafter referred to as a porpoise, or to mission.
transport a porpoise from the waters of the
county, except an agent of the state department
of natural resources to determine the cause of,or (c) If any section,subsection,sentence,clause,
to prevent the injury,death or disease of porpoises. phrase or portion of this section is for any reason
held invalid or unconstitutional by any court of
(b) It shall be unlawful for any person to competent jurisdiction, such portion shall be
molest or capture a porpoise,in the waters of the deemed a separate, distinct and independent
county, or to transport a porpoise from the provision and such holding shall not affect the
waters of the county without written authoriza- validity of the remaining portion hereof. In the
tion from the state division of marine resources event this section conflicts with other applicable
to capture a porpoise specifically in the county or law, the more restrictive shall apply. If any part
transport a porpoise from the waters of the of this section conflicts with any part, it shall be
county. severed and the remainder shall have full force
(c) Any person who violates this section shall and effect and be liberally construed.
be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable according
to law.
(Ord. No. 72-8, § 1) (d) A violation of any provision of this section
State law references—Penalty for ordinance violations, shall be prosecuted in accordance with general
F.S. § 125.69;similar provisions,F.S. §370.28(3). law in the name of the state in the county court
by the prosecuting attorney, and upon conviction
Sec. 14-2. Possession, sale, etc., of certain shall be punished by a fine not to exceed$500.00
fish prohibited. or by imprisonment in the county jail not to
(a) The possession,sale,importation or release exceed 60 days,or by both such fine and imprison-
into any waters of the County of any of the ment. Each violation and each day a violation
following fish is prohibited: continues shall constitute a separate offense.
(1) White Amur or Grass Carp(Ctenopharyn The board of county commissioners shall have
godon idella). the power to collaterally enforce the provisions of
this section by appropriate judicial writ or proceed-
(2) Walking catfish:Any member of the Clari- ing notwithstanding any prosecution as a
idae family (Clarias, Heterophneustes, misdemeanor.
Gymnallables, Channallables or Hetero (Ord. No. 74-9, §§ 1-4; Ord. No. 82 3, § 4; Ord.
branchus genera). No. 2009 62, § 1)
(3) Piranha (Sersalmus, Rooseveltilla and Cross references—Natural resources,ch.90;waterways,
Pygocentrus genera). ch. 146.
State law reference—Penalty for ordinance violations,
(b) The State Game and Freshwater Fish F.S. § 125.69.
Commission has recommended as a safe and
useful aquatic plant management tool the use of
the triploid hybrid of the white amur in enclosed
bodies of water; and said commission issues Secs. 14-3-14-25. Reserved.
permits for individual bodies of water which are
subject to rules and regulations controlling the
distribution, quantity and site for the triploid
Supp. No. 77 CD14:3
4 14-26 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
ARTICLE II. ANIMAL CONTROL* ascribed to them in this section, except where
the context clearly indicates a different meaning:
Sec. 14-26. Title. Abandon shall mean to forsake an animal
entirely or neglect or refuse to provide or perform
This Ordinance shall be known and may be the legal obligations for care and support of an
cited as the "Collier County Animal Control animal by its Owner or its Custodian.
Ordinance."
(Ord. No. 2013-33, § 1) Animal means every living vertebrate other
than a human being.
Sec. 14-27. Adoption by reference,construe- Animal Control Officer shall be defined in
tion and purpose. accordance with F.S. §828.27,as may be amended
and shall be deemed appointed as an agent of the
The Board adopts by reference as part of this County as contemplated in F.S. § 828.03.
chapter, all laws of the State of Florida relating
to animal control, animal welfare, and animal Animal cruelty, torture or torment shall be
cruelty. It is the intent of the Board that this held to include every act, omission, or neglect
whereby unnecessary or unjustifiable pain or
chapter shall supplement the provisions of state suffering is caused, except when done in the
law, including required procedures, and that in interest of medical science, or otherwise permit-
the event of any conflict between the terms of ted under Florida Law.
this chapter and state law,state law shall control.
This Ordinance is enacted with the primary Animal hoarding means the activity of a
purpose of insuring the health of the human person characterized by the following:
esidents and visitors of the county and with the
secondary purpose of insuring the health of the A. Failure to provide minimal standards of
animals in the county. This Ordinance is to be sanitation, space, nutrition or veterinary
liberally construed to affect those objectives.
care for animals; and
B. Attempts to accumulate or maintain a
The Ordinance is established to support the collection of animals in the face of progres-
mission of animal services, as established by the sively deteriorating conditions.
Board of County Commissioners: To ensure
compliance with local and State animal-related Animal related business means any for profit
laws;to return strays to their owners and promote person or business required to hold a business
the adoption of homeless animals to new families; tax receipt that renders services to,for or by any
and to work toward ending the community domestic animal, excepting commercial
problem of pet overpopulation. agricultural operations and the offices or practices
(Ord. No. 2013-33, § 2) of State-certified and licensed veterinarians.
Examples of animal-related businesses include,
but are not limited to, boarding facilities, doggie
Sec. 14-28. Definitions. day cares, groomers, pet shops, petting zoos,
pony rides, stables, and training facilities.
The following words,terms and phrases,when
used in this Ordinance, shall have the meanings Animal related organization means any not
for-profit entity that maintains premises for the
*Editor's note--Ord. No. 2018-33,§ 1,adopted June 26, purpose of rendering services to, for or by any
2018, amended art. II in its entirety, except for §§ 14-26, domestic animal. Examples of animal-related
14-27 and 14-30 which remain as codified by Ord. No. organizations include, but are not limited to,
2013-33.Former§§14-28-14-42,pertained to similar subject
matter,and derived from Ord. No. 2013-33,§§3,4,6-17. rescues that maintain premises as a central
State law references—Dangerous dogs,F.S. §767.11 et location for their activities, sanctuaries, service
seq.;local animal control ordinances,F.S. §828.27. dog organizations and animal shelters.
Supp. No. 77 CD14:4
Animal services means the Collier County
Domestic Animal Services Division. Animal
services may be referred to herein as "Division."
Animal services center means any place
approved as such by the Board of County Com-
missioners for the detention, care and/or treat-
ment of animals in custody.
At-large means off the premises of the owner
and not under the direct control of the owner or
other competent person, on a suitable leash of
dependable strength sufficient to restrain the
animal.
Commercial Breeder means any person or
business required to hold a business tax receipt
who engages in the sale or breeding of three (3)
or more litters of dogs or cats, per a one-year
period or offers one (1) or more domestic cat(s) or
dog(s) for breeding or stud purposes, producing
three (3) or more litters per year, excepting
service dog organizations that are members of
Assistance Dogs International or the International
Guide Dog Federation. Commercial breeders are
subject to agricultural zoning requirements of
the Land Development Code.
Community cat shall means any un-owned
free-roaming cat that has been sterilized, vac-
cinated against rabies, ear-tipped or ear-notched,
implanted with an RFID, and returned to field
and may be cared for by one (1) or more residents
of the immediate area who is/are known or
unknown.
Community cat caregiver means any person
who provides food, water, shelter, and/or cares
for one (1) or more community cat(s) but who
does not own, harbor, keep, or have custody,
control, or charge of such cats.
County veterinarian means a veterinarian,
duly licensed by the state, appointed by the
County Manager or designee to be a consultant
to the county health department and to the
County Manager or designee.
Custodian means any person who is not the
Owner of an animal, but is in possession of or
control of an animal.
Dangerous dog shall be defined in accordance
with F.S. § 767.11, as may be amended.
Direct control means the immediate, continu-
ous physical control of an animal at all times by
such means as a fence, tether, or suitable leash of
dependable strength, sufficient to restrain the
animal; or specially trained hunting animals
engaged in legal hunting, or animals engaged in
shows or organized obedience training programs
where the animals respond to commands.
Domestic animal means any equine or bovine
animal, goat, sheep, swine, domestic cat, dog,
poultry, ostrich, emu, rhea, or other domesticated
beast or bird.
Ear-notched means a "v" has been cut from
the tip of the left ear of a cat.
Ear-tipped means the tip of the left ear of a cat
has been cut in a straight line.
Free-roaming means any dog or cat found
outdoors regardless of its appearance, behavior
or ownership status.
Grooming means that animals shall be groomed
in such a manner to maintain health. Animals
shall be provided with hair, hoof, claw, nail, tooth
and beak care as appropriate and as necessary to
maintain health and comfort.
Health officer means the director of the County
health department, or his designee.
Hobby Breeder means any person who
intentionally or unintentionally causes or allows
the breeding or studding of one (1) or more
domestic cat(s) or dog(s), producing one (1) to
two (2) litters per household or premises per a
one-year period, which results in the selling or
otherwise transferring ownership of offspring;
retaining offspring; improving the breed; exhibit-
ing dogs or cats at shows operated by a national,
state, or local recognized organization; or raising
service animals or animals used for law enforce-
ment or other types of work, excepting service
dog organizations that are members of Assistance
Dogs International or the International Guide
Federation.
Livestock means all animals of equine, bovine,
or swine class, including sheep, goats and other
grazing animals.
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CD14:5Supp. No. 122
Owner means any person having a right of
property in an animal. If the owner is a minor as
defined by statute, the minor's parent(s) or legal
guardian(s) shall be deemed the owner for
purposes of this chapter.
Pet dealer shall mean any person who, in
commerce, for compensation or profit engages in
the sale of a dog(s) or cat(s) for use as a pet but
who does not engage in breeding dogs or cats.
This definition excludes humane societies, private
nonprofit animal organizations, animal rescue
organizations and animal shelters.
Police working dog shall mean any dog owned
by any State, County or municipal police depart-
ment or any State or Federal law enforcement
agency, which has been trained to aid law enforce-
ment officers and is actually being used for
police work purposes.
Premises means the principal place of opera-
tion for all animal-related businesses, animal-
related organizations, commercial and hobby
breeders, and rodeos, specifically where animals
are housed on a day-to-day basis.
Proper Enclosure for primary means of confine-
ment for dogs means an enclosed or locked pen or
structure, designed to prevent the animal from
escaping. Such pen or structure shall be a
structurally sound enclosure, made of materials
impervious to moisture and shall also provide
protection from injury and the elements. The
square footage of a proper enclosure used as a
primary means of confinement for a dog must be
equal to or greater than the length of the animal
from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail,
doubled, then squared, and divided by 144. For
example, a dog measuring 30 inches from the tip
of the nose to the base of the tail will require a 25
square foot enclosure (30 x 2 = 60; 60 x 60 =
3,600; 3,600/144 = 25). The height of the enclosure
shall be equal to or greater than the length of the
animal from the tip of the nose to the base of the
tail multiplied by 1.5.
Psittacine birds means all birds commonly
known as parrots, Amazons, Mexican double-
heads, parakeets, African grays, cockatoos,
macaws, lovebirds, loris, lorikeets, and other
birds of the Psittacine family.
Radio frequency identification device (RFID),
commonly referred to as a Microchip, means a
device that is implanted underneath the skin of
a dog, cat or other animal that when scanned
produces a unique number that identifies the
animal and its owner, if properly registered.
When present, an RFID with registration informa-
tion shall be considered the primary indication of
ownership.
Rescue Organization, Animal Rescue Group,
Animal-related organization shall mean a duly
incorporated non-profit organization that has
tax exempt status in accordance with Section
501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue
Code, founded or chartered with the primary
mission being the welfare, care, and adoption/
placement of stray, abandoned, or surrendered
animals, and which does not breed dogs or cats
or obtain these animals for any form of payment
or compensation from any source other than an
animal shelter. Such organizations make pets
available on a cost-recovery basis and/or foster
animals or enlist others to foster animals.
Rescue Pet Placement Partner means a group
of persons who has completed a Collier County
Pet Placement Partner application and is approved
to rescue adopt animals from animals services,
who hold themselves out as an animal rescue
group, accept or solicit dogs, cats, or other animals
with the intent of finding permanent adoptive
homes or providing lifelong care for such dogs,
cats, or other animals, and who use foster homes
as the primary means of housing animals; or a
group of persons formed for the prevention of
cruelty to animals.
Research or testing means any use of any
animal in any vivisection, including demonstra-
tion or practice surgery, medical or biomedical
research, medical experimentation, medical or
nonmedical education, or to test any medication,
radiation, toxicity, element, chemical or chemical
compound, or to study the effects of any consumer
product on humans or animals, or for use in
biological production or other substantially similar
research or testing for scientific, medical, biomedi-
cal, educational, or veterinary purpose, by any
individual, school, college, university, hospital,
laboratory, or any other institution or entity of
§ 14-28 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:6Supp. No. 122
any description, public or private. Such uses of
an animal that does not expose any animal to
any incision or puncture, to torture, torment, or
cruelty, to any immediate or future damage or
impairment, or to unusual stress, is not research
or testing as defined herein.
Rodeo means any event or show involving the
use of equines, and/or bovines for the exhibition
of skills in riding, bronco or bull riding, calf
roping, and/or bulldogging, where a fee is charged
to witness the event.
Shelter shall mean, provision of and access to
a three-dimensional structure having a roof,
walls and a floor, which is dry, sanitary, clean,
weatherproof and made of durable material. At a
minimum, the structure must:
1. Be sufficient in size to allow each sheltered
animal to stand up, turn around, lie
down, and stretch comfortably;
2. Be designed to protect the sheltered
animal from the adverse effects of the
elements and provide access to shade
from direct sunlight and regress from
exposure to inclement weather condi-
tions;
3. Be free of standing water, accumulated
waste and debris, protect the sheltered
animal from injury, and have adequate
ventilation and for dogs and cats, provide
a solid surface, resting platform, pad,
floormat or similar device that is large
enough for the animal to lie on in a
normal manner; and
4. Be properly lighted to provide a regular
lighting cycle of either natural or artificial
light corresponding to the natural period
of daylight unless otherwise directed by
a veterinarian. Structures with wire,
grid or slat floors which permit the
animal's feet to pass through the open-
ings, sag under the animal's weight or
which otherwise do not protect the
animal's feet or toes from injury are
prohibited except for birds where perches
are provided.
Standards of Care refers to a set of rules and
regulations governing the care and feeding of
animals maintained in or by animal-related busi-
nesses, animal-related organizations, commercial
breeders, hobby breeders, and rodeos, as adopted
by the Board of County Commissioners.
Sustenance shall mean access to and the
provision of palatable nourishment appropriate
for the type of animal which is to eat it, free from
contamination and provided in a clean and
sanitary manner. Food shall be of sufficient
nutritional value to maintain the animal in good
health and shall be provided at suitable intervals
for the species, age and condition of the animal
but not less than once daily except as otherwise
prescribed by a veterinarian or as dictated by
naturally occurring states of hibernation or fast-
ing normal to the species.
Tether means to restrain a dog by tying the
dog to any object or structure, including without
limitation a house, tree, fence, post, garage, or
shed, by any means, including without limitation
a chain, rope, cord, leash, or running line. Tether-
ing shall not include using a leash to walk a dog.
Trap-neuter-vaccinate-return (TNVR) shall
mean a program whereby a free-roaming cat is
humanely trapped, spayed or neutered, vac-
cinated against the threat of rabies, implanted
with an RFID, ear-notched or ear-tipped; and
returned to their original point of pick-up or
other suitable location as part of a community
cat management program.
Unaltered shall mean an animal that has not
been sterilized.
Unprovoked means that a person, who has
been conducting himself or herself peacefully
and lawfully, has been bitten or chased in a
menacing fashion or attacked by an animal. The
meaning of "unprovoked" as it relates to Section
Thirteen (§ 14-38) shall follow the definition as
provided in F.S. ch. 767.
Vaccination means administering to any
animal, pursuant to a certificate of vaccination
issued by a licensed state veterinarian, an anti-
rabies vaccine approved by the state department
of health and rehabilitative services.
Water shall mean provision of, and access to,
clean, fresh, potable water, of a drinkable
§ 14-28ANIMALS
CD14:7Supp. No. 122
temperature, which is free from contamination,
and provided in a suitable manner, in sufficient
volume, and at suitable intervals, to at all times
maintain normal hydration for the age, species,
condition, size and types of each animal, except
as otherwise prescribed by a veterinarian or as
dictated by naturally occurring states of hiberna-
tion.
Wild animal means any living non-
domesticated species defined as wildlife by the
wildlife code of the state fish and wildlife conserva-
tion commission.
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1; Ord. No. 2024-26, § 1;
Ord. No. 2025-44, 1)
Cross reference—Definitions generally, § 1-2.
Sec. 14-29. Authority of County Manager
or Designee; Interference with
Officer in Performance of
Duty.
1. The County Manager or designee shall
have all necessary authority to enforce this
Ordinance, and pick up, catch or procure any
animal in violation of this Ordinance, and have
such animal impounded within the animal services
center or other designated place.
2. The County Manager or designee shall
have authority to enter upon any public or
private property, except a building designated
for and actually used for residential purposes
and other buildings within the curtilage of the
principal residential building, for the purpose of
enforcing this Ordinance.
3. It shall be unlawful for a person to interfere
with, hinder, molest or abuse the County Manager
or designee, the health officer, or any of their
subordinates in the performance of their lawful
duties under this Ordinance or under Florida
law.
4. It shall be unlawful for any owner of any
animal to refuse to surrender such animal for
impoundment or quarantine as provided by this
Ordinance when demand for surrender of the
animal is made by the health officer, County
Manager or designee, or other enforcement officer.
5. The County Manager or the Sheriff of
Collier County, or their respective designees,
shall have the authority to destroy any free
roaming untagged dog or cat when other reason-
able means and methods to capture are tried but
failed, or when a diligent search has been made
to establish ownership has failed, and it has
been ascertained by citizen complaint or investiga-
tion that the animal has aggressive tendencies
and poses a threat of injury to persons or other
animals, or has caused bodily injury to a person
or has physically injured or killed livestock.
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1; Ord. No. 2024-26, § 1)
Sec. 14-30. Enforcement.
1. By animal control enforcement officer and
sheriff. The County Manager or designee, any
animal control enforcement officer, or officer of
the sheriffs office, is empowered to enforce this
Ordinance.
2. By municipal police. Upon resolution
approved by the governing board of any
incorporated municipality within the confines of
the county, the police force of any such municipal-
ity is empowered to enforce the provisions of this
Ordinance within that municipal corporation.
3. By agents, employees of animal services
department.
A. Designation. The County Manager or
designee is hereby authorized to designate
agents or employees of the county depart-
ment of animal services as animal control
enforcement officers. It shall be the
responsibility of the County Manager or
designee to determine the training and
qualifications of any employee or agent
so designated, subject to minimum
requirements specified in F.S. § 828.27.
B. Authorization. It shall be the duty of any
person designated as an animal control
enforcement officer to enforce this
Ordinance and subsequent amendments
hereto relating to animal control.
C. Authorized to issue penalties. Any person
designated as an animal control enforce-
ment officer is hereby authorized to issue
penalties as outlined in Section Fifteen
§ 14-28 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:8Supp. No. 122
for violations of this Ordinance and
subsequent amendments hereto. The form
of penalty issued may be determined at
the discretion of the animal control officer
or officer of the sheriffs office, but shall
be commensurate with the severity of the
infraction and any history of violation of
the recipient.
D. Limitation of powers. Nothing herein
contained shall be construed to authorize
or permit any person designated as an
animal control enforcement officer pursu-
ant to this section, to perform any func-
tion or duties of a law enforcement officer
other than specified herein. No such
officer shall make physical arrests or
take any person into custody. All such
officers shall be exempt from the require-
ments relating to the state high-hazard
retirement program and police standards
and training commission as defined or
referred to by F.S. § 122.34 and F.S. ch.
943.
(Ord. No. 2013-33, § 5; Ord. No. 2024-26, § 1)
Sec. 14-31. Complaints.
1. Complaints for alleged violation(s) of this
Ordinance shall be communicated to the County
Manager or designee, sheriffs office or police
department. Upon receipt of a complaint, an
investigation shall be conducted to determine if
there is any violation of this Ordinance. If it is
ascertained that any provision of this Ordinance
is being violated, proper and lawful action will be
taken to enforce this Ordinance.
2. Upon receipt of more than one "affidavit"
for any violation of this Ordinance, each prepared
and signed independently by a resident/visitor
(at least one affidavit must come from a resident
of the County) of a separate dwelling in the
vicinity of the violation, and acknowledged under
oath before an individual authorized by law to
take acknowledgements, or one adult witness
who is a resident of the County who submits an
"affidavit" with a recorded video or photograph
showing an alleged violation, setting forth the
complained of acts, an enforcement officer shall
investigate the facts to determine if the acts
complained of are a violation. The video or
photograph shall be considered upon proof of
date and time or reliable indications of date and
time as determined by the County Manager or
designee. If upon the review of the above the
County Manager or designee determines that a
violation has occurred, a penalty may be issued
for the violation, including, subject to F.S. § 828.27,
and conditions of this Ordinance, a mandatory
court appearance or appearance before the special
magistrate.
3. Intentional falsification of information on
an "affidavit" shall be a violation of this Ordinance,
and punishable as provided in Section Fifteen
[§ 14-40].
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1; Ord. No. 2024-26, § 1)
Sec. 14-32. Rabies control.
1. A rabies control program, including the
investigation of all reported animal bites, may be
carried out through a mutual agreement with
the Florida Department of Health using the
requirements of Florida Department of Health
Rules and Regulation, Chapter 64 D-3, Florida
Administrative Code, and/or this Ordinance as a
basis for enforcement and program implementa-
tion.
2. Any person having knowledge of an animal
biting, scratching or otherwise wounding a person
by contact shall immediately report the facts to
the County health department or to the Division,
if known, including:
A. The victim's name, approximate age, and
address;
B. The animal owner's name and address;
C. The animal's description and location;
and
D. Name(s) and description(s) of other
persons and animals involved.
3. An animal known to have bitten or a cat
that has scratched a human or an animal
suspected of having rabies shall, if possible, be
captured or taken into custody by the County
Manager or designee, police, sheriffs office, or
health officer.
A. Any dog or cat without a current rabies
vaccination that has bitten, is believed to
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CD14:9Supp. No. 122
have bitten or has otherwise exposed a
person to rabies or is suspected of having
rabies shall be quarantined for rabies
observation. The Owner of such dog or
cat shall relinquish control of the dog or
cat for the purpose of quarantine. The
dog or cat shall be quarantined at the
owner's expense for a period of ten (10)
days from the date of the bite at the
animal services or at an approved hold-
ing facility of a local veterinarian. It
shall be unlawful for any person to fail to
surrender any such dog or cat for rabies
quarantine. Additionally, it shall be
unlawful for any person to fail to inform
the Division of any such dog or cats last
known whereabouts if the owner has
relinquished possession of said dog or cat
or caused said dog or cat to be taken from
the owner's premises.
B. Any dog or cat with a current rabies
vaccination that has bitten, is believed to
have bitten or has otherwise exposed a
person to rabies may be quarantined at
home. The County Manager or designee,
and/or the County Florida Health Depart-
ment, shall have the authority to grant
or deny permission for home quarantine
privilege. If at any time during the
quarantine period the County Manager
or designee determines that the Owner
of the dog or cat is not able to sufficiently
confine the dog or cat, the Owner shall
relinquish control of the dog or cat to
animal services. The dog or cat will be
confined in the custody of animal services
or at an approved holding facility of a
local veterinarian for the remainder of
the quarantine period at the Owner's
expense.
C. Earnotched or eartipped community cats
that have bitten, are believed to have
bitten or have otherwise exposed a person
to rabies or are suspected of having
rabies shall be quarantined for rabies
observation for a period of ten (10) days
from the date of the bite at animal
services or at an approved holding facil-
ity of a local veterinarian, if possible. If
the cat cannot be trapped for impound-
ment, it will be observed daily by its
community cat caregiver. Community cats
that are not earnotched or eartipped will
be deemed to be unvaccinated.
4. Wild animals that are susceptible of carry-
ing rabies, that are being held in captivity, or
possessed as pets by private persons who are
properly licensed, but which animals have not
been vaccinated with a proven anti-rabies vac-
cine that has been developed for that specified
species of animal and which vaccine is recognized
as an effective vaccine by the health officer, or for
which no known rabies incubation period has
been established by research recognized by the
health officer, which animal has either bitten a
human being or which animal is suspected of
having rabies, shall be impounded and
quarantined by the County Manager or designee
upon the recommendation of the health officer.
The animal will be held in quarantine for a
specified period of time as directed by the health
officer.
A. A wild animal may be euthanized at the
discretion of the health officer for the
purpose of laboratory analysis to
determine if the animal is rabid when
the health and/or welfare of the person
bitten by that animal is in jeopardy.
B. The decision whether to euthanize the
animal will be based upon history of
possible exposure of the animal to rabies
and is at the discretion of the health
officer.
5. Any animal possessed in a licensed attrac-
tion, zoo, circus, or educational institution, and
that is known to have bitten a human being,
shall be isolated and subjected to a quarantine
period at a location as directed by the health
officer or County Manager or designee. In
determining the quarantine and location, the
decision will be made on the history of the
animal's possible exposure to rabies.
6. No animal may be removed from the place
of quarantine without the prior written authoriza-
tion of the health officer or County Manager or
designee. If any animal dies during quarantine,
the person holding the animal in quarantine
§ 14-32 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:10Supp. No. 122
shall immediately notify the health officer or
County Manager or designee, and shall
immediately surrender the body of the animal
without altering the body in any manner.
7. Any unvaccinated dog, cat, or other animal
susceptible of carrying rabies that is bitten by a
known rabid animal shall be immediately
destroyed. If it is an owned animal, however, the
owner may elect to have the animal confined and
quarantined at the animal services center, or at
another location approved by the health officer
or County Manager or designee, for a period of
up to six months. All costs of the detention of the
animal will be at the expense of the owner.
8. The County Manager or designee, sheriff or
municipal police officer shall have authority to
kill an animal in order to procure an animal that
is susceptible of carrying rabies and that is
known to have bitten a human being or is
suspected of having rabies, provided that all
other reasonable means and methods under the
circumstances to capture the animal have failed.
The head of the animal, intact, shall then be
submitted to a designated laboratory to be
analyzed for rabies infection.
9. Owners whose animals have been reported
to have bitten any person, shall provide the
Director or designee all necessary information
by telephone, correspondence or records at animal
services, to determine the vaccination status and
quarantine requirements for the animal and to
place an animal on home quarantine.
10. The following fees shall be imposed, in
amounts set forth by resolution of the Board, for
carrying out the rabies control program:
A. Field officer fee. Owners whose animals
have been reported to have bitten any
person, shall be charged a fee when the
County Manager or designee is not able
to obtain all necessary information pursu-
ant to Section Seven, subsection 2 herein
and an animal control officer is dispatched
to secure or obtain the required bite
information and place an animal on
quarantine.
B. Transportation fee. Owners whose animals
have been reported to have bitten any
person and who are required to have
such animal quarantined at an approved
quarantine facility, shall be charged a
transportation fee when the Owner has
failed to transport said animal to a
quarantine facility within twenty-four
(24) hours after notification, requiring
transportation by the Division.
C. Quarantine release fee. At the end of each
quarantine period for rabies observation,
owners whose animals have been reported
to have bitten any person are required to
call the Division to verify that said animal
is alive and healthy to assure that it is
free of rabies infection. A quarantine
release fee shall be charged when the
owner fails to call or the Division is
unsuccessful at reaching the owner by
phone within forty-eight (48) hours fol-
lowing the expiration of the quarantine
period, requiring an animal control officer
to observe the animal.
D. Quarantine at the Division fee. Owners
whose animals are quarantined at the
Division for a rabies quarantine shall be
charged a quarantine fee, which shall be
paid by the owner at the beginning of the
quarantine period. The owner shall be
responsible to pay for any medical care
provided during the quarantine period at
the conclusion of the quarantine period.
The Owner is also responsible to pay for,
if applicable, mandatory sterilization, vac-
cination against the threat of rabies,
implantation of a RFID, and purchase of
a County rabies/license tag if not cur-
rent.
E. Except as specifically provided by this
Ordinance, an invoice reflecting fees
imposed pursuant to this section shall be
sent to the Owner of the animal. Pay-
ment shall be made by the Owner within
thirty (30) days of receipt of said invoice.
Failure to pay within such time will
result in a late fee.
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1; Ord. No. 2024-26, § 1)
§ 14-32ANIMALS
CD14:11Supp. No. 122
Sec. 14-33. County Rabies/License
certificate; tags, vaccination
required.
1. Any owner of a dog or cat shall obtain a
County rabies/license tag for each such animal
when the animal is four months old or older.
A. In the case of a newly acquired dog or
cat, the Owner shall obtain a County
rabies/license tag within fifteen (15) days
of acquisition.
B. In the case of a new resident to the
County, the Owner shall obtain a County
rabies/license tag within fifteen (15) days
of establishing residency.
C. No County rabies/license tag for dogs or
cats shall be issued or renewed by a
veterinarian or authorized agent until
evidence of vaccination for rabies by a
licensed veterinarian has been presented.
Upon vaccinating a dog or cat against
rabies, authorized veterinarians/clinics
may have available for purchase by the
dog or cat owner, a County rabies/license
tag. The County rabies/license tag will
be valid for a period of one (1) or three (3)
years from the date of vaccination, depend-
ing on the expiration date of the rabies
vaccination the animal receives, and is
required to be renewed annually or trien-
nially thereafter and must remain cur-
rent at all times.
No County rabies/license tag shall be
valid after the expiration of the rabies
vaccination, regardless of the date of
issuance. Failure to secure and purchase
a new County rabies/license tag within
thirty (30) calendar days after the previ-
ous tag expires will result in a late
penalty established and revised by resolu-
tions adopted by the Board of County
Commissioners.
D. The record corresponding to the County
rabies/license tag shall contain the name
of the owner, address, breed, sex and
color of each animal, or other descriptive
data.
E. A tag designating the license number
shall be issued.
F. All dogs shall be required to wear a valid
County rabies/license tag. The tag shall
be affixed to the dog's neck by a collar,
harness, or other substantial device at
all times, except when the animal is
confined in a secure enclosure, as long as
the tag is securely fastened to a collar/
harness and that device is attached to
the enclosure, except when a dog is
securely confined in the residence. Dogs
participating in a registered match,
confirmation show, field trial, or obedi-
ence trial are not required to wear such
tags during the time of the event.
G. All cats, other than community cats,
shall be required to wear a valid County
rabies/license tag. The tag shall be
securely fastened around the cat's neck
by a collar, harness or other substantial
device so as to be clearly visible at all
times. Cats, other than community cats,
may be exempt from wearing the required
license tag while kept in a secure enclosure
as long as the tag is securely attached to
the enclosure or while within the owner's
residence as long as the tag is provided to
an officer upon request.
H. The County rabies/license tag issued
under this section shall not be transfer-
able from animal to animal or from owner
to owner.
I. Each County rabies/license tag must be
obtained from persons designated by the
County Manager or designee. License
forms provided by the County Manager
or designee for the registration and licens-
ing of dogs and cats shall be completed
and be submitted to the County Manager
or designee.
J. A replacement tag must be purchased
and in place within fifteen (15) calendar
days if the original tag is lost, misplaced,
or stolen at a reduced amount as
established by resolution of the Board of
County Commissioners.
§ 14-33 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:12Supp. No. 122
K. Veterinarians and authorized agents are
authorized to sell dog County rabies/
licenses and cat County rabies/licenses
and cannot charge more for the tag than
is established and revised by resolutions
adopted by the Board of County Commis-
sioners. The veterinarian and authorized
agents must submit payment to Animal
Services for each tag sold during the
previous 30 days. Veterinarians and
authorized agents are authorized to charge
a surcharge for this service. The amount
of the authorized surcharge is established
and revised by resolutions adopted by
the Board of County Commissioners.
County rabies/license tags will be
furnished by the County to the veterinar-
ian and authorized agents.
L. Veterinarians and authorized agents must
keep complete and accurate records of
tags sold and on hand as inventory. All
theft or loss must be reported immediately
to the proper authority and a copy of the
official law enforcement report must be
provided to Domestic Animal Services.
Unexplained shortages/losses of tags, or
sale(s) of tags at the incorrect price(s),
are the responsibility of the Veterinar-
ians and authorized agents.
M. License fees are not required for Police
Working Dogs; but such animals must be
licensed and must have received their
rabies vaccination. In order to receive
these license tags at no charge, the owner
must have the animal licensed through
animal services. Police working dogs vac-
cinated anywhere else will be liable to
pay the surcharge imposed by the
veterinarian only.
N. At time of licensing or renewal, each
owner shall be required as part of the
application process to submit a sworn or
affirmed statement the dog or cat has not
been used as a sire or dame in the last
twelve (12) months.
O. Dogs or cats that are unaltered due to a
medical exemption must provide a letter
of exemption from a licensed veterinar-
ian.
2. Any owner of a dog, cat, or ferret shall have
such animal vaccinated annually for rabies when
the animal is four months old or older. The
owner of every dog, cat, and ferret shall have the
animal revaccinated 12 months after the initial
vaccination. Thereafter, the interval between
vaccinations shall conform to the vaccine
manufacturer's directions. Every owner shall
provide proof of vaccination upon demand of the
health officer or his designee or any other person
authorized to enforce this Ordinance. Animal
services may deny issuance of a County rabies/
license tag to any animal without a current
rabies vaccination. No vaccination is required if
a licensed veterinarian certifies in writing that
the vaccination would endanger the animal's
health.
3. Upon vaccination against rabies, the licensed
veterinarian shall provide the animal's owner
and the animal control authority with a rabies
vaccination certificate as defined in F.S. § 828.30.
Veterinarians shall provide rabies vaccination
certificates to Domestic Animal Services within
thirty (30) days of vaccination or immediately
upon request of Domestic Animal Services in
conjunction with an investigation or other enforce-
ment purposes.
4. Animal-related organizations in good stand-
ing with animal services and Pet Placement
Partners, with a valid tax exemption under
Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3), approved
to adopt animals from animal services that are
housing cats and dogs in foster or sanctuary type
settings as an alternative to humane euthanasia
may acquire a blanket license for all cats and
dogs housed.
5. License fees are established and revised by
resolutions of the Board of County Commission-
ers. A portion of each non-neutered/non-spayed
animal license fee will be deposited in the County
Animal Care Sterilization trust fund for the
purpose of funding the County's neuter/spay
program. The amount to be deposited is
established and revised by resolutions adopted
by the Board of County Commissioners.
6. Owners of animals who visit Collier County
or reside in Collier County for less than thirty
(30) days per year are exempt from the County
§ 14-33ANIMALS
CD14:13Supp. No. 122
rabies/license tag requirement provided that they
have proof of a valid current rabies vaccination
from another jurisdiction.
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1; Ord. No. 2024-26, § 1;
Ord. No. 2025-44, § 2)
Sec. 14-34. Keeping/adopting stray
animals.
1. It shall be unlawful for any person in the
County to harbor or keep any stray or apparently
lost animal unless he/she has notified the Divi-
sion within twenty-four (24) hours from the time
such animal came into his/her possession. Upon
receiving such notice, the Division may require
the person to bring the animal to the Division for
identification or sheltering, if necessary.
2. Adopting stray found animals. A resident
who possesses a stray dog or cat and who wishes
to provide it a permanent home, shall apply to
legally adopt such animal by adhering to the
following procedures:
A. Take the found stray animal to the Divi-
sion to be scanned for a RFID and checked
for a tattoo. An exception to this require-
ment is for the potential adopter to take
the dog or cat to a local veterinarian or
another animal shelter to be scanned for
an RFID and checked for a tattoo. Proof
must be presented to the Division that
these requirements have been met. The
applicant will not be permitted to adopt a
stray dog or cat where an owner is
discovered and has not formally forfeited
the animal to DAS.
B. Provide the Division with clear identify-
ing color photographs showing the animal
from a side view and a front view. Each
photograph must have a minimal dimen-
sion of three (3) inches by three (3)
inches. It is also recommended that the
potential adopter place a "found"
advertisement in at least one (1) local
newspaper of general circulation.
C. Complete an official "found" pet form
which provides all appropriate identify-
ing information for the animal.
D. Sign an adoption agreement and pay all
necessary fees and deposits. The prospec-
tive owner, at his/her option and expense,
may make an appointment at the Divi-
sion to secure the required vaccinations,
tests, RFID and sterilization or may secure
these requirements through a private
veterinarian. All deposits will be refunded
when proof is shown that the new owner
has complied with these requirements.
No sooner than thirty (30) days after
completing the official "found" pet form
and not to exceed forty-five (45) days.
3. If the animal becomes injured or sick while
under the potential adopter's care, that person
shall be required to pay all necessary veterinary
expenses. If the adopter does not wish to pay for
needed treatment, the animal must be
relinquished to the Division. The potential adopter
shall lose all rights and claims to the animal.
4. All potential adopters must agree to
relinquish the found dog or cat to its rightful
owner after proof of ownership has been
demonstrated and/or until such time as the
Division approves and releases the animal to the
new adopter, no sooner than thirty (30) days
after completing a "found" pet form. All potential
adopters will relinquish the found dog or cat to
the Division upon request if the potential adopter
fails to return the animal to the rightful owner
for reunification.
5. Such animal(s) may become the property of
a person only if the following requirements are
also met:
A. Photographs and identifying information
have been posted at the Division for
fifteen (15) business days;
B. The animal has been given a rabies
inoculation and County rabies/license tag;
C. The animal has been sterilized; and
D. The animal has been implanted with an
RFID and the RFID is registered to said
person. The requirements herein must
be secured within fifteen (15) calendar
days after animal services approves the
adoption application. Extensions may be
granted by animal services for reason-
§ 14-33 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:14Supp. No. 122
able requests. Any deviation from these
adoption requirements by the potential
adopter will void the adoption.
6. At its discretion, the Division may refuse
an adoption of an animal if it is determined that
the adoption is not in the best interest of the
animal or the health, safety and general welfare
of the public. Factors to be considered may
include those factors set forth in Section Sixteen
(§ 14-41) of this Ordinance.
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1)
Sec. 14-35. General violations.
1. It shall be unlawful for the owner of an
animal to allow or permit his or her animal:
A. To be upon the beaches of the county,
whether fettered or unfettered, unless
the area has been designated by the
board as suitable for use by such animals,
except for service animals as defined in
F.S. § 413.08, or animals used by law
enforcement officers or county ordinance
enforcement personnel.
§ 14-35ANIMALS
CD14:14.1Supp. No. 122
B. To run at large in or upon any public
street, road, sidewalk, other public place,
or upon private property without the
expressed or implied consent, subject to
zoning, of the owner or any lessee of such
private property.
C. To be upon public school grounds or
public playground in the county, whether
fettered or unfettered, except for service
animals as defined in F.S. § 413.08.
D. To enter any building where food is
stored, prepared, served or sold to the
public, or any other public building or
hall; provided, however, that this provi-
sion shall not apply to service animals as
defined in F.S. § 413.08, to public build-
ings used for animal shows or exhibi-
tions, or to dogs used for enforcement by
any law enforcement officer or code
enforcement officer.
E. To be upon private or public property so
as to damage or destroy any property of
another including, but not limited to, the
unprovoked biting, attacking, or wound-
ing of another person's animal(s) or thing
of value.
F. To defecate and create a sanitary nuisance
thereon, including defecating upon
roadways, road rights-of-way, sidewalks,
or other property. A sanitary nuisance
exists whenever the feces are not
immediately removed and properly
disposed.
G. To chase, run after, or jump at vehicles or
bicycles using any road or road right-of-
way.
H. To snap, growl, snarl, jump upon, or
otherwise threaten persons lawfully using
any road right-of-way, persons lawfully
on their own property, or persons law-
fully on property of another with permis-
sion of the owner or person in possession
or control of the property.
I. It shall be unlawful for the owner, or any
caretaker of an animal or animals to
allow the animal(s), to bark, meow, whine,
howl, or to make other sounds common to
the species, persistently or continuously
for a period of 30 minutes or longer when
the animal is not contained within an
enclosure sufficient to baffle loud noises
and render them reasonably unobjection-
able. This subsection shall not apply to
animals maintained on land zoned for
agricultural purposes, nor shall it apply
to a properly permitted animal shelter
established for the care and/or placement
of unwanted or stray animals, nor a
properly zoned commercial boarding
kennel or other animal facility. An owner
or custodian of the animal(s), may be
cited for a violation of this section when
either the investigating officer has
received, from at least two unrelated
adult witnesses from different residences,
a sworn affidavit of complaint attesting
to the committing of a nuisance pursuant
to such section or subsection, upon receipt
of one affidavit as described above
accompanied with a photograph or video
recording with indicia of reliability as to
date and time of the recording, or the
citing officer has witnessed the commis-
sion of such a nuisance. Affidavits attest-
ing to the nuisance must come from
residents within a three-block radius
(approximately 900-foot radius).
J. No owner or caretaker of an animal(s)
shall permit the animal, either willfully
or through failure to exercise due care or
control, to bite, attack or wound a human
without provocation while such person is
in or on a public place or lawfully in or on
a private place including the property of
the owner of such animal.
K. Any cat that is outdoors while not under
direct control must be sterilized.
2. It shall be unlawful to keep any female dog
or cat in heat (estrus) which is not confined to a
building or secure enclosure, veterinary hospital,
or boarding kennel and in such a manner that
the female dog or cat can come in contact with
any male dog or cat except for intentional breed-
ing with a specific male dog or cat.
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1)
§ 14-35ANIMALS
CD14:15Supp. No. 116
Sec. 14-36. Animal care; manner of keep-
ing.
1. No person who is the owner or possessor or
who has charge or custody of an animal shall fail
to provide:
A. Shelter (as defined herein) for the animal;
B. Water (as defined herein) for the animal.
An animal confined outdoors shall have a
continuous supply of clean, fresh, and
potable water, unless the animal is under
the direct supervision of a responsible
person at events such as dog or cat shows
or field trials. In such cases, the
responsible person shall ensure suf-
ficient water is provided to the animal in
order to maintain normal hydration for
the species of animal;
C. Clean, sanitary, safe and humane condi-
tions;
D. Medical attention and/or necessary
veterinary care when an animal is sick,
diseased or injured; Upon request by the
Division, written proof of veterinary care
must be provided;
E. Adequate sustenance (as defined herein)
to any animal;
F. Grooming (as defined herein) for the
animal; and
G. Humane care and treatment.
2. No person shall engage in animal hoard-
ing.
3. Shelter for equine, bovine, ovine and porcine
normally maintained in outdoor areas must:
A. Provide protection from the direct rays of
the sun and the direct effect of wind and
rain;
B. Provide a wind break and rain break;
C. Provide a solid roof;
D. Provide protection from the elements at
all times; and
E. Provide space for each animal to comfort-
ably stand up, sit down, lie down and
turn around in the shelter. If the shelter
is used for more than one (1) animal at
the same time, it must provide enough
space for each animal to comfortably
stand up, sit down, lie down and turn
around simultaneously.
4. It shall be unlawful for any person maintain-
ing equine or ovine to fail to keep hooves trimmed
so as to prevent lameness and extreme overgrowth
causing deformities.
5. To keep horses, cattle, or other livestock in
a manner inconsistent with recognized livestock
husbandry practices.
6. It shall be unlawful for the owner of an
animal to allow or permit his or her animal:
A. To be abandoned. Abandonment shall
constitute the relinquishment of all rights
and claims by the Owner to such animal
in accordance with F.S. § 705.19. Com-
munity Cats shall not be considered
abandoned when returned to the original
point of pick-up or other suitable location
as part of a community cat management
program.
B. To be confined in an unattended motor
vehicle without sufficient ventilation or
under other conditions for such periods
of time as may endanger the health
and/or physical well-being of the animal
due to heat, lack of potable water, or such
other circumstances as may reasonably
cause suffering, disability, or death to the
animal.
7. An Animal Control Officer shall free any
animal left unattended in a motor vehicle if the
animal appears to be in imminent danger or
distress or if the interior of the vehicle reaches a
temperature of eighty (80) degrees Fahrenheit or
higher for a period of five (5) minutes or longer.
The Animal Control Officer shall first attempt to
locate the owner. If unable to do so in a reason-
able time, with due consideration given as to the
peril to the animal, the Animal Control Officer
shall free the animal in a manner which is
calculated to cause the least damage to the
vehicle as necessary to safely remove the animal.
§ 14-36 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:16Supp. No. 116
Once freed, the animal is to be brought to an
animal services center, or veterinarian, and the
Owner promptly notified.
8. No person shall transport or carry any dog
or other animal in a motor vehicle unless the
animal is safely enclosed within the vehicle or
trailer. If a person is transporting or carrying an
animal in an unenclosed or partially enclosed
vehicle including, but not limited to, convertibles,
pick-up and flat-bed trucks, the person shall
confine the animal in a container, case, or other
device that is of proper and adequate size to
prevent the animal from falling from or jumping
from the motor vehicle.
9. Nothing in this section shall be deemed to
prohibit the transportation of horses, cattle,
sheep, poultry or other agricultural livestock in
trailers or other vehicles designed and constructed
for such purposes.
10. Any enclosure used as a primary means of
confinement for a dog must meet the definition
of proper enclosure as stated in this Ordinance.
It shall be unlawful for a responsible party to
tether a dog while outdoors, except when all of
the following conditions are met. This section
shall not apply to the transportation of dogs:
A. The dog is in visual range of the
responsible party, and the responsible
party is located outside with the dog.
B. The tether is connected to the dog by a
buckle-type collar or a body harness made
of nylon or leather, not less than one inch
in width.
C. The tether has the following properties:
It is at least five times the length of the
dog's body, as measured from the tip of
the nose to the base of the tail; it
terminates at both ends with a swivel; it
does not weigh more than 1/8 of the dog's
weight; and it is free of tangles.
D. The dog is tethered in such a manner as
to prevent injury, strangulation, or
entanglement.
E. The dog is not outside during a period of
extreme weather, including without limita-
tion extreme heat or near-freezing
temperatures, thunderstorms, tornadoes,
tropical storms or hurricanes.
F. The dog has access to water, shelter and
dry ground.
G. The dog is at least six months of age.
Dogs under six (6) months of age shall
not be tethered.
H. The dog is not sick or injured.
I. Pulley, running line, or trolley systems
are at least 15 feet in length and are less
than 7 feet above the ground.
J. If there are multiple dogs, each dog is
tethered separately.
11. Any enclosure used as the primary confine-
ment of cats shall provide the following condi-
tions:
A. Cats must be provided access to a
receptacle containing sufficient clean litter
for excreta and body wastes.
B. Cats must be provided solid resting
surface(s) that are large enough to hold
all cats comfortably.
12. The County Manager or designee shall
impound or make the subject of an order to
provide care any animal found to be cruelly
treated as defined in this Ordinance or under
Florida Law, as outlined in F.S. § 828.073, as
may be amended.
13. Whoever violates any provision of this
section shall forfeit his right to license any
additional animals in the County for one year in
addition to any other penalty provided by this
Ordinance or otherwise by law. Any ownership of
such animals without benefit of a license shall be
deemed an additional violation of this Ordinance.
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1; Ord. No. 2024-26, § 1)
Sec. 14-37. Cruelty to animals.
1. It shall be unlawful for any person to:
A. Fight or bait animals as set forth in F.S.
§ 828.122, commonly known as "The
Animal Fighting Act."
§ 14-37ANIMALS
CD14:17Supp. No. 116
B. Maim or disfigure any dog, cat, or other
animal. A person shall not crop the ears
or dock the tail of any dog, unless the
person employs a veterinarian to perform
the cropping and docking. If a person
possesses a dog with an ear or ears cut
off or cropped, or tail docked, and with
the unhealed wound, then that posses-
sion is prima facie evidence of a violation
of this section, unless the cropping or
docking was performed by a veterinarian
and the documentation to prove this is
provided the Division upon demand.
C. It shall be unlawful for any person to
leave or deposit any poison or any
substance containing poison in any
common street, road, alley, lane or
thoroughfare of any kind, or in any yard
or enclosure other than that person's
own yard or enclosure, for the purpose of
inflicting injury or killing any animal
other than a common rat or mouse.
D. Confine animals without sufficient food,
water, or exercise, or abandon to die any
animal that is maimed, sick, infirm, or
diseased, as prohibited in F.S. § 828.13.
E. Commit an act of animal cruelty in viola-
tion of F.S. § 828.12.
F. Beat and cause unnecessary injury and
suffering to any animal.
G. Work an animal in a sick, diseased or
injured condition.
H. To keep horses, cattle, or other livestock
in a manner inconsistent with recognized
livestock husbandry practices.
2. A person may not:
A. Knowingly engage in any sexual conduct
or sexual contact with an animal;
B. Knowingly cause, aid, or abet another
person to engage in any sexual conduct
or sexual contact with an animal;
C. Knowingly permit any sexual conduct or
sexual contact with an animal to be
conducted on any premises under his or
her charge or control; or
D. Knowingly organize, promote, conduct,
advertise, aid, abet, participate in as an
observer, or perform any service in the
furtherance of an act involving any sexual
conduct or sexual contact with an animal
for a commercial or recreational purpose.
3. The County Manager or designee shall
impound or make the subject of an order to
provide care any animal found to be cruelly
treated as defined in this Ordinance or under
Florida Law, as outlined in F.S. § 828.073, as
may be amended.
4. Whoever violates any provision of this Sec-
tion shall forfeit his right to license any additional
animals in the County for one year in addition to
any other penalty provided by this Ordinance or
otherwise by law. Any ownership of such animal
without benefit of a license shall be deemed an
additional violation of this Ordinance.
5. To the extent permitted by law and not
inconsistent with this Section the following por-
tions of the Florida Statutes, in their current
form and as subsequently amended, are hereby
adopted and incorporated by reference except as
to penalty, and shall be part of this Section as if
they were set out in full and punishable as civil
infractions:
A. F.S. § 828.058;
B. F.S. § 828.065;
C. F.S. § 828.08;
D. F.S. § 828.12;
E. F.S. § 828.121;
F. F.S. § 828.122;
G. F.S. § 828.123;
H. F.S. § 828.1231;
I. F.S. § 828.125;
J. F.S. § 828.13;
K. F.S. § 828.14;
L. F.S. § 828.16;
M. F.S. § 828.161;
N. F.S. § 828.22;
O. F.S. § 828.23;
§ 14-37 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:18Supp. No. 116
P. F.S. § 828.24; and
Q. F.S. § 828.252.
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1; Ord. No. 2024-26, § 1)
Sec. 14-38. Dangerous Dogs; Procedures.
1. Dangerous Dog Procedure.
A. All definitions as set forth in F.S. ch. 767
shall be incorporated herein. The provi-
sions of F.S. ch. 767, as may be amended,
pertaining to dangerous dogs are adopted
in their entirety as part of this Section.
All procedures, regulations, require-
ments, and restrictions, pertaining to
dangerous dogs are applicable under this
article, and a violation of state law shall
constitute a violation of this Ordinance.
To the extent that any provision in this
Ordinance conflicts with F.S. ch. 767, the
statute shall control.
B. The County Manager or designee shall
investigate reported incidents involving
any dog that may be dangerous and
shall, if possible, interview the owner
and require a sworn affidavit from any
person, including any animal control
officer or enforcement officer, desiring to
have a dog classified as dangerous. Any
animal that is the subject of a dangerous
dog investigation, and is not impounded
with animal services, shall be humanely
and safely confined by the owner in a
securely fenced or enclosed area pending
the outcome of the investigation and
resolution of any hearings related to the
dangerous dog classification. The address
of where the animal resides shall be
provided to animal services. No dog that
is the subject of a dangerous dog investiga-
tion may be relocated or ownership
transferred pending the outcome of an
investigation or any hearings related to
the determination of a dangerous dog
classification. In the event that a dog is
to be destroyed, the dog shall not be
relocated or ownership transferred.
C. Animal services may impound any dog
under investigation if the owner is unable
or unwilling to securely confine the dog
during the investigation. Upon written
notice from animal services, the owner
must allow access to the dog for the
purposes of impoundment. If the dog is
impounded during this time, the owner is
responsible for all costs related to
impoundment unless the owner ultimately
prevails and the dog is not declared
dangerous.
D. A dog shall not be declared dangerous if
the threat, injury, or damage was
sustained by a person who, at the time,
was unlawfully on the property or, while
lawfully on the property, was tormenting,
abusing, or assaulting the dog or its
owner or a family member. No dog may
be declared dangerous if the dog was
protecting or defending a human being
within the immediate vicinity of the dog
from an unjustified attack or assault.
E. If the County Manager or designee makes
an initial determination that a dog is
dangerous, based on the initial investiga-
tion, the County shall provide written
notification of that determination to the
owner of the dog. Notice shall be by
certified mail, by certified hand delivery,
by service pursuant to F.S. ch. 48, or as
otherwise authorized by Florida Statute.
The County Manager's or designee's initial
determination shall automatically become
final unless the dog's owner, within seven
calendar days after receipt of the notice,
files a written request for a hearing to
challenge the County Manager's or
designee's initial determination. The writ-
ten request must be submitted to animal
services. If the dog's owner files a timely
written request for a challenge hearing,
the effective date of the determination
shall be the date of the final decision of
the Special Magistrate.
F. Any owner of a dog that is initially
declared dangerous by the County
Manager or designee may appeal that
decision to the Code Enforcement Special
Magistrate. This hearing shall be held as
soon as possible, but not more than 21
calendar days and no sooner than 5 days
§ 14-38ANIMALS
CD14:19Supp. No. 116
after receipt of request from the owner.
The hearing may only be continued by
agreement of both parties.
G. If the Special Magistrate's determination
is to uphold the dangerous dog classifica-
tion, animal services shall provide writ-
ten notification to the owner as required
above. The dog owner may file a written
request for a hearing in circuit court to
appeal the classification within ten (10)
business days after receiving notice. This
request for hearing must be filed with
the circuit court, and a copy provided to
animal services within the time provided.
Any such appeal shall not be a hearing
de novo, but shall be limited to appellate
review of the record created before the
Special Magistrate.
2. Registration of dangerous dog and fees.
A. Registration of dangerous dog. Not later
than 14 calendar days after the final
effective date, as specified above, that
the dog is determined to be a dangerous
dog, the dog's owner must file a complete
written standard form application with
animal services to be issued a certificate
of registration for the dangerous dog.
The application/administration fee for
each certificate shall be established by
Resolution of the Board of Commission-
ers. A complete application for the initial
certificate of registration shall include:
(i) the filing fee and late fees, if any; (ii) a
color photograph of dog and a signed
acknowledgement form that the dog will
be identified by name and address on the
Collier County Animal Services website;
(iii) a receipt or other written proof that
the dog has been permanently identified
(via microchip); (iv) a current certificate
of vaccination, against rabies for the dog;
and (v) a receipt or other written proof
that the dog has been spayed or neutered
by a licensed veterinarian. If there is a
medical or other reason that the dog
cannot be spayed or neutered, the owner
will provide the reason in writing signed
by a Collier County licensed veterinar-
ian.
B. Within ten (10) days of receipt of a
complete application, animal services will
make a site visit to ensure provision of a
proper enclosure, and posting of the
premises with a clearly visible warning
sign at all entry points that informs both
children and adults of the presence of a
dangerous dog on the property. Animal
services will provide two (2) of the required
signs. Upon completion of a successful
site visit, animal services will issue the
requested initial certificate. The dura-
tion of each certificate is 365 days. There
shall be a late fee for each day that the
certificate is not issued, and such late fee
shall be determined by a Resolution of
the Board of County Commissioners.
C. Annual renewal of certificate of registra-
tion. A standard renewal application must
be filed annually at least ten (10) calendar
days prior to the date that the respective
certificate is to expire. A complete applica-
tion for a renewal certificate shall include
the renewal/administrative fee, a current
color photograph of each dangerous dog
sign posted at the premises where the
dangerous dog resides, and a current
certificate of rabies vaccination.
D. Failure to re-register. There shall be a
late fee for each day that a complete
renewal application is not filed, and such
late fee shall be determined by Resolu-
tion of the Board of County Commission-
ers. Animal services may impound any
dog whose owner has: (i) failed to re-
apply for registration 30 days past the
expiration of the certification; or (ii) failed
to successfully complete re-registration
45 days past the expiration of the certifica-
tion. Upon written notice from animal
services, the owner must allow access to
the dog for the purposes of impound-
ment. The owner is responsible for all
costs related to impoundment. Failure to
successfully re-register the dog after 30
days of impoundment will result in
forfeiture of ownership of the dog. Animal
services may dispose of such an
impounded dog, in a humane manner, at
the expense of the owner.
§ 14-38 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:20Supp. No. 116
3. Subsequent handling of dangerous dogs.
A. The owner shall immediately notify
animal services when a dog that has
been classified as dangerous:
(1) Is loose or unconfined;
(2) Has bitten a human being or
attacked another animal;
(3) Is sold, given away, or dies; and/or
(4) Is moved to another address.
Prior to a dangerous dog being sold or
given away, the owner shall provide the
name, address, and telephone number of
the new owner to animal services. The
new owner must comply with all the
requirements of this Ordinance. The
owner is required to notify the appropri-
ate animal services authority if the dog is
moved out of jurisdiction.
B. It is unlawful for the owner of a danger-
ous dog to permit the dog to be outside a
proper enclosure unless the dog is muzzled
and restrained by a suitable leash of
dependable strength and under the control
of a competent person. Unless prohibited
by the dog's physical make-up, as in
brachycephalic breeds, the muzzle must
be of a cage-style that will not interfere
with the dog's vision, will allow the dog
to pant and drink, but will prevent it
from biting a person or animal.
Brachycephalic breeds of dogs must wear
a suitable type of muzzle if a cage-style
cannot be worn. The owner may exercise
the dog in a securely fenced or enclosed
area that does not have a top, without a
muzzle or a leash, if the dog remains
within his or her sight and only members
of the immediate household or person 18
years of age or older are allowed in the
enclosure when the dog is present. When
being transported, such dogs must be
safely and securely restrained within a
vehicle.
C. Hunting dogs are exempt from the provi-
sions of this act when engaged in any
legal hunt or training procedure. Dogs
engaged in training or exhibiting in legal
sports such as obedience trials, conforma-
tion shows, field trials, hunting/retriev-
ing trials, and herding trials are exempt
from the provisions of this section when
engaged in any legal procedures. However,
such dogs at all other times in all other
respects shall be subject to this and local
laws. Dogs that have been classified as
dangerous shall not be used for hunting
purposes.
D. This section does not apply to dogs used
by law enforcement officials for law
enforcement work.
E. A person who violates any provision of
this section commits a noncriminal infrac-
tion, punishable by a fine not to exceed
$500.
4. Attack or bite by dangerous dog.
A. If a dog that has previously been declared
dangerous attacks or bites a person or a
domestic animal without provocation, the
owner is guilty of a misdemeanor of the
first degree, punishable as provided in
F.S. ch. 775. In addition, the dangerous
dog shall be immediately confiscated by
animal services, placed in quarantine, if
necessary, for the proper length of time,
or impounded and held for ten (10) busi-
ness days after the owner is given writ-
ten notice under F.S. ch. 767.12, and
thereafter destroyed in an expeditious
and humane manner. This ten-day time
period shall allow the owner to request a
hearing as outlined above in this section.
The owner shall be responsible for pay-
ment of all boarding costs and other fees
as may be required to humanely and
safely keep the animal during any appeal
procedure.
B. If a dog that has previously been declared
dangerous attacks and causes severe
injury to or death of any human, the
owner is guilty of a felony of the third
degree, punishable as provided in F.S.
ch. 775. In addition, the dog shall be
immediately confiscated by animal
services, placed in quarantine, if neces-
sary, for the proper length of time or held
§ 14-38ANIMALS
CD14:21Supp. No. 122
for ten business days after the owner is
given proper written notification under
F.S. ch. 767, and thereafter destroyed in
an expeditious and humane manner. This
ten-day time period shall allow the owner
to request a hearing under this section.
The owner shall be responsible for pay-
ment of all boarding costs and other fees
as may be required to humanely and
safely keep the animal during any appeal
procedure.
C. If the owner files a written appeal under
this section, the dog must be held and
may not be destroyed while the appeal is
pending.
D. If a dog attacks or bites a person who is
engaged in or attempting to engage in a
criminal activity at the time of the attack,
the owner is not guilty of any crime
specified under this section.
5. Attack or bite by unclassified dog that
causes severe injury or death.
A. If a dog that has not been declared
dangerous attacks and causes the death
of a human, the dog shall be immediately
confiscated by animal services, placed in
quarantine, if necessary, for the proper
length of time or held for 10 business
days after the owner is given written
notification under F.S. ch. 767, and
thereafter destroyed in an expeditious
and humane manner. This 10-day period
shall allow the owner to request a hear-
ing under this section, the dog must be
held and may not be destroyed while the
appeal is pending. The owner is
responsible for payment of all boarding
costs and other fees as may be required
to humanely and safely keep the animal
during any appeal procedure.
B. If a dog that has not been declared
dangerous attacks and causes severe
injury to, or the death of, a human, and
the owner of the dog had knowledge of
the dog's dangerous propensities, yet
demonstrated a reckless disregard for
such propensities under the circumstances
the owner of the dog commits a
misdemeanor of the second degree, punish-
able as provided in F.S. ch. 767.
C. If the dog attacks or bites a person who is
engaged in or attempting to engage in a
criminal activity at the time of the attack,
the owner of the dog is not guilty of any
crime under this section.
6. Violations.
A. Failure to comply with any provision of
this Section may result in a fine not to
exceed $500.00 and impoundment of the
subject dog. Upon written notice from
animal services, the owner must allow
access to the dog for the purposes of
impoundment. The owner is responsible
for all costs related to impoundment.
B. Failure to cure any violation of this Sec-
tion within 30 days of impoundment of
the subject dog will result in forfeiture of
ownership of the dog. Animal services
may dispose of such an impounded dog,
in a humane manner at the expense of
the owner.
C. Upon second occurrence of a violation of
this Section, failure to cure within ten
(10) days of impoundment of the subject
dog will result in forfeiture of ownership
of the dog. Animal services may dispose
of such an impounded dog, in a humane
manner at the expense of the owner.
D. Each day the owner of a dangerous dog
fails to comply with the requirements of
this Section or the requirements of F.S.
§ 767.12, as may be amended, shall
constitute a separate and distinct offense.
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1; Ord. No. 2024-26, § 1)
Sec. 14-39. Standards of Care.
1. The following provisions are limited to
animal-related businesses, animal-related
organizations, commercial breeders, hobby breed-
ers, and rodeos.
2. The County Manager or designee is hereby
granted authority to recommend Standards of
Care for animal-related businesses, animal-
§ 14-38 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:22Supp. No. 122
related organizations, commercial breeders, hobby
breeders, and rodeos for approval by the Board of
County Commissioners. Standards of Care shall
be approved by ordinance of the Board and then
codified in the Collier County Administrative
Code. As set forth below, a violation of an
approved Standards of Care shall be deemed to
be a violation of this Ordinance.
3. The owner or operator of any animal-
related business, animal-related organization,
commercial breeders, hobby breeders, or rodeo
shall properly feed and care for each animal in
their custody or control and otherwise meet all
relevant Standards of Care.
4. The County Manager or designee shall
inspect the premises of any animal-related busi-
ness and any animal-related organization on an
annual basis. The County Manager or designee
shall inspect the premises of any rodeo prior to
or within twenty-four (24) hours of the commence-
ment of that event. The County Manager or
designee may inspect the premises of any breeder
on a quarterly basis, and shall inspect the
premises at a minimum on an annual basis.
Inspections shall occur during normal business
hours. Routine inspections of businesses, or
organizations, or breeders located in a premise
used primarily as a residence will be noticed a
minimum of twenty-four (24) hours in advance.
No duty to notify exists should animal services
receive a complaint alleging a violation of this
Ordinance.
5. Refusal to allow the County Manager or
designee to inspect any premises, animal, or
records associated with any animal-related busi-
ness, organization or rodeo, or any breeding
operation, shall constitute a violation of this
Ordinance.
6. Should the inspection reveal a violation of
this Ordinance or the relevant Standards of
Care, a Notice to Comply may be issued. The
Notice to Comply shall specify the violation and
shall contain a time period not to exceed 15 days
to enable the violator to come into compliance.
The premises shall be re-inspected promptly
following the time period specified by the Notice
to Comply. Failure to correct the violation shall
result in the issuance of a citation.
7. Every person who owns or operates an
animal-related business or animal-related
organization shall obtain a permit from the
County Manager or designee. Each applicant
shall be required as part of the application
process to submit a sworn or affirmed statement
that they are in compliance with all permit
requirements and standards. A fee will be charged
for the permit. Permit fees shall be established
and revised by resolutions of the Board of County
Commissioners. The County Manager or designee
shall issue an animal-related business or organiza-
tion permit after receipt of this fee and inspec-
tion of the business or organization premises if
he determines that the premises meet all
established standards and regulations. The permit
shall be displayed within the licensed premises
at a place where it is clearly visible to the public.
An animal-related business or organization permit
is valid for one (1) calendar year and must be
renewed annually. Renewal applications must be
made thirty (30) days prior to expiration of the
permit. Permits not renewed thirty (30) days
prior to expiration shall be subject to late fees
and penalties specified under this ordinance.
Permits are not transferable or refundable.
8. Every person or organization who sponsors
or operates a rodeo shall, at least thirty (30) days
prior to the date of the event, make application
to the County Manager or designee for a permit
to operate. Each applicant shall be required as
part of the application process to submit a sworn
or affirmed statement that they are in compli-
ance with all permit requirements and standards.
The fee for such application and permit shall be
established and revised by resolutions of the
Board of County Commissioners. The County
Manager or designee shall issue a rodeo permit
after receipt of this fee and inspection of the
event premises if he determines that the event
will meet the established Standards of Care.
That permit shall be displayed at the event at a
place where it is clearly visible to the public.
9. Commercial and hobby breeders must obtain
the applicable breeder permit from the County
Manager or designee. Each applicant shall be
required as part of the application process to
submit a sworn or affirmed statement that they
are in compliance with all permit requirements
§ 14-39ANIMALS
CD14:23Supp. No. 122
and standards. A fee will be charged for the
permit. Permit fees shall be established and
revised by resolutions of the Board of County
Commissioners. The County Manager or designee
shall issue the applicable breeder permit after
receipt of this fee and inspection of the breeder's
premises if he determines that the breeder meets
the established Standards of Care. A breeder
permit is valid for one (1) calendar year and
must be renewed annually. Renewal applications
must be made thirty (30) days prior to expiration
of the permit. Permits not renewed thirty (30)
days prior to expiration shall be subject to late
fees and penalties specified under this ordinance.
Permits are not transferable or refundable. Failure
to obtain a permit prior to operating as a breeder
shall constitute a violation of this Ordinance.
Breeders of unintentional litters shall be given
up to fifteen (15) days from birth of puppies or
kittens to obtain a permit.
10. The County Manager or designee shall
have the authority to deny, suspend or revoke a
permit, as issued under this Section if the County
Manager or designee determines that one of the
following has occurred:
A. There has been a material misstatement
or misrepresentation in the permit
application, or the permit has been
transferred in an effort to avoid the
requirements of this Ordinance;
B. The permit holder, applicant, corpora-
tion, officer of the corporation has been
cited for at least two (2) violation of any
related animal ordinance or statute,
within a five-year period, each resulting
in the imposition of a fine or penalty;
C. The permit holder or applicant has
outstanding and unsatisfied civil penal-
ties imposed due to a violation of this
Ordinance;
D. The permit holder, applicant, or a member
of the household, if a home-based busi-
ness, has been convicted of a violation of
law involving cruelty to animals as speci-
fied in the Collier County Animal Abuser
Registry Ordinance, Collier County Code
of Laws Section 14, Article V. The permit
may also be suspended if charged, but
not yet convicted;
E. An animal under the care and responsibil-
ity of a permit holder or applicant has
been found to be in need of immediate
veterinary care that, if not treated, would
result in suffering, pain, or death;
F. The permit holder or applicant and/or
their employees or agents refuse to allow
inspection of the premises;
G. The permit holder or applicant, or a
member of the household if a home-based
business, has had a final judgment entered
against them based upon a finding of
animal neglect or mistreatment pursu-
ant to Florida Statutes § 828.073 or
comparable statute;
H. The permit holder or applicant know-
ingly employs or employed an employee
who has been convicted of a violation of
law involving cruelty to animals or who
has had a final judgment against him/
her based upon a finding of animal neglect
or mistreatment pursuant to Florida
Statutes § 828.073 or comparable statute;
or
I. Any other violations, as determined by
the County Manager or designee.
The County Manager or designee shall notify
the permit holder of the denial, suspension, or
revocation of the permit in writing. Any person
who has been denied a permit or whose permit
has been revoked or suspended may appeal this
action to the special magistrate or in a court of
competent jurisdiction within thirty-calendar days
from the date of notice, as otherwise specified in
Collier County Code of Laws and Ordinances,
Section 2-2034, Notices.
11. No animal-related businesses, animal-
related organizations, commercial breeders, hobby
breeders, pet dealers, and rodeos permits shall
be granted or issued to a person who has been
charged with and convicted of charges of animal
cruelty under any jurisdiction. Such automatic
denial shall extend to corporations, companies,
§ 14-39 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:24Supp. No. 122
partnerships, joint ventures, professional groups
or associations which include a person so
described.
12. Animal-related organizations in good stand-
ing with animal services as contemplated herein
and rescue organizations qualified to adopt
animals from animal services that are housing
cats and dogs in foster or sanctuary settings as
an alternative to humane euthanasia may acquire
a blanket license for all cats and dogs housed
when registering the animals housed on the
premises.
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1; Ord. No. 2024-26, § 1;
Ord. No. 2025-44, § 3)
Sec. 14-40. Penalties.
1. For any violation or alleged violation of this
Ordinance, the County Manager or designee,
deputy sheriff, municipal police officer, or other
enforcement officer empowered to enforce this
Ordinance, may issue to the owner of (or to the
person in custody of) the animal a written warn-
ing statement or notice to comply.
2. All written warnings or notices required by
this Ordinance shall be provided to the alleged
violator as set forth in Collier County Code of
Laws and Ordinances, Section 2-2034, Notices.
3. For an initial violation of Section Eight,
Section Nine, Section Eleven, Section Thirteen,
Section Fourteen, and Section Sixteen, excluding
subsection 9, of this Ordinance, the County
Manager or designee, deputy sheriff, municipal
police officer, or other enforcement officer
empowered to enforce this Ordinance, may issue
to the owner of (or to the person in custody of)
the animal a Notice to Comply under which the
recipient must come into compliance within fifteen
days of receipt. Failure to comply shall result in
a citation. If the County Manager or designee
has reason to believe a violation or the condition
causing the violation presents a serious threat to
the public health, safety and welfare or if the
violation is irreparable or irreversible in nature,
the County Manager or designee shall make a
reasonable effort to notify the Violator and may
immediately notify the Special Magistrate and
request a hearing. Under such circumstances,
the Officer shall not be required to adhere to the
notice and time requirements as set forth above.
4. A violation of this Ordinance is a civil
infraction as provided in F.S. § 828.27. For any
violation of this Ordinance, the County Manager
or designee, deputy sheriff, municipal police
officer, or other enforcement officer empowered
to enforce this Ordinance, may issue a citation to
the violator.
A. A citation issued by an animal control
enforcement officer under the provisions
of this section shall be in a form prescribed
by the board. Such citation shall contain
all known information required by F.S.
§ 828.27, including the date and time of
issuance of the citation; name and address
of the person in violation; the date of the
violation; description of the animal
involved; the section or sections of this
Ordinance, or subsequent amendments,
violated; the facts constituting probable
cause; name and authority of the citing
enforcement officer; also the procedure
for the person to follow in order to pay
the civil penalty, to contest the citation,
or to appear before the special magistrate
when a mandatory appearance is required
as specified in the citation or when
scheduled by the code enforcement depart-
ment, in which case there is no option
but to appear before the special
magistrate; the applicable civil penalty if
the person elects not to contest the cita-
tion and the applicable civil penalty if
the person elects to contest the citation;
also a conspicuous statement of the effect
of failure to promptly pay the fine or
appear before the special magistrate or
in court. Subject to the limitations now
or hereafter specified in F.S. § 828.27, a
mandatory special magistrate or court
appearance may be required by the issu-
ing officer. Mandatory appearances before
a special magistrate may also be ordered
by the special magistrate as specified in
this section, or as otherwise within the
special magistrate's authority.
B. Upon conviction of any civil infraction,
the violator shall be punished by a fine
§ 14-40ANIMALS
CD14:25Supp. No. 122
not to exceed $500.00 in the discretion of
the court or special magistrate, as
applicable. Each day of the violation or
noncompliance as to each animal shall be
considered as a separate and distinct
offense. In addition, any person convicted
under any provisions of this Ordinance
shall pay all costs and expenses involved
in the case.
C. Each violator shall be required to pay an
administrative surcharge of $5.00, plus a
$2.00 surcharge to pay the costs of the
40-hour minimum standards training
course for animal control enforcement
officers for each cited violation.
D. Each person or entity that commits one
or more civil infraction(s) under this
Ordinance, but does not contest the cita-
tion, shall pay a fine for each such separate
offense as follows:
(1) First Offense: $250.00
(2) Second Offense: $350.00
(3) Third, or subsequent, Offense:
$475.00
If a person fails to pay the civil penalty
specified within the time allowed, fails to
request a hearing, or fails to appear
before the special magistrate to contest
the citation or notice to appear, the viola-
tor shall be deemed to have waived the
right to contest the citation or notice to
appear and judgment shall be entered
against the person in an amount up to
the maximum civil penalty of $500.00
per violation, but not less than the amount
of the penalty set forth in the schedule
for uncontested violations.
E. Animal services may authorize and
establish an educational program aimed
at teaching responsible pet ownership.
When such a program becomes available
any person who receives a citation may
elect to attend in lieu of payment. The
person cited shall be responsible for any
cost associated with attending the course.
The person cited must register and pay
for the course within twenty (20) days of
receipt of the citation. Registration and
payment for the course constitutes admis-
sion of the violation and in so doing the
person waives his or her right to contest
the violation to the Special Magistrate.
The course must be successfully completed
within ninety (90) days of receipt of the
citation. Upon completion of the course,
the civil penalty will be waived; however,
a person may not make an election under
this subsection if the person has success-
fully completed this course within the
preceding twelve (12) months or if the
citation requires a mandatory appear-
ance before the special magistrate. A
person may make no more than two (2)
elections under this subsection, however,
a person cited for a violation Section
Twelve (§ 14-37) may only make one
election under this subsection. Success-
ful completion of the course does not
constitute dismissal of the violation as a
first (or subsequent) offense.
F. The Officer may require a mandatory
appearance before the special magistrate
for certain violations of this ordinance
resulting in the unprovoked biting, attack-
ing, or wounding of a domestic animal;
violations resulting in the destruction or
loss of personal property; second or
subsequent violations of local animal
cruelty laws; or violations resulting in
the issuance of a third or subsequent
citation to a person. The citation must
clearly inform the person of the manda-
tory Special Magistrate appearance. A
person who is required to appear does
not have the option of paying the fine
instead of appearing before the Special
Magistrate.
G. A citation that is dismissed by the county,
or by the Special Magistrate or by other
trier of fact, shall not count as a prior
citation for the purpose of determining
the number of prior citations issued to
that violator.
H. The violator's failure to pay the fine,
and/or to timely request a hearing before
the Special Magistrate may result in an
§ 14-40 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:26Supp. No. 122
admission of guilt. The code enforcement
department shall give notice to the viola-
tor that a hearing will be conducted
concerning the alleged violation(s) and/or
unpaid fines. The notice shall be in similar
form to that described in the Collier
County Code Enforcement Special
Magistrate Ordinance and state the time
and place of the hearing, as well as the
violation(s) which are alleged to exist
and/or the accruing fine amount, if
applicable. The Special Magistrate's find-
ings shall be reduced to writing and
recorded in the official records.
I. Notwithstanding anything in this
Ordinance, the individual who issues the
citation or other pleading may require a
mandatory appearance if a mandatory
appearance is in that instance authorized
by law.
J. If the named violator is properly noticed
of the hearing and fails to appear, the
Special Magistrate may hear the citation
and impose any penalties allowed by this
Ordinance.
K. The named violator or the county may
seek to overturn a final order of the
Special Magistrate by making applica-
tion to the county court for a trial de novo
on the merits. Such application must be
filed within 30 calendar days from the
rendition of the order sought to be
overturned. A violator will have the right
to a de novo proceeding provided that all
administrative remedies have been
exhausted. Failure to make such applica-
tion within the required time period will
render the findings and order of the
Special Magistrate conclusive, binding,
and final. All findings of the Special
Magistrate will be evidence at any de
novo proceeding held pursuant to this
subsection. All dangerous dog hearings
and appeals shall follow the procedures
set forth in Section 14-38 of this Code.
L. If the named violator or the animal control
enforcement officer fails to appear in
court the court may issue an order to
show cause. Such order shall require
such persons to appear before the court
to explain why action on the citation has
not been taken or the court may render a
civil judgment up to $500.00. If any
person who is issued an order to show
cause fails to appear in response to the
court's directive, that person may be held
in contempt of court.
M. If any penalty provision specified by F.S.
§ 828.27 is amended, such amended
penalty provisions shall apply to this
Ordinance without further action by the
board of county commissioners.
N. The County may institute proceedings in
a court of competent jurisdiction to compel
payment of any civil penalty. If a person
fails to pay the civil penalty, or fails to
appear in court as may be required, then
the court may issue an order to show
cause upon the request of animal services.
The person shall be required by the court
to appear before the court to explain why
action on the citation has not been taken.
If any person who is issued such order
fails to appear in response to the court's
directive, the person may be held in
contempt of court.
O. Nothing herein contained shall prevent
or restrict the county from taking such
other lawful action in any court of
competent jurisdiction as is necessary to
prevent or remedy any violation or
noncompliance. Such other lawful actions
shall include, but shall not be limited to,
an equitable action for injunctive relief
and an action at law for damages.
P. Violations of Section Eight, subsections
1(K) and 1(L) and subsection 3, shall not
result in a citation and/or monetary
penalty, but may result in the County
Manager or designee revoking the
veterinarian's authorization to issue
County licenses.
Q. The Special Magistrate may refer any
violation to the Sheriff's Office, Police
Department, State Attorney's Office, or
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CD14:27Supp. No. 122
other law enforcement authority for
criminal charges or inclusion in the
Animal Abuse Registry.
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1; Ord. No. 2024-26, § 1;
Ord. No. 2025-44, § 4)
Sec. 14-41. Disposition of Impounded
Animals.
1. Impounded animals with identification not
suspected of having an infectious or contagious
disease shall be held for a minimum of three full
days (72 hours) to provide time for the animal's
owner to notify staff of intent to recover the
animal. Upon the owner's acknowledgement of
an impounded animal, the animal will be held
for a minimum of five full days (120 hours) from
the date of impoundment, after which time the
animal shall be considered abandoned and shall
become the property of the Division. All animals
other than dogs, cats with identification, or
livestock, for which an owner has not been
identified or deemed to have an owner by an
identification tag or other identification, shall
immediately be considered abandoned and shall
become the property of the Division. The Divi-
sion may, at its discretion, place such animal(s)
for adoption, place in foster care, transfer the
animal(s) to another shelter, transfer the animal(s)
to rescue or make disposition pursuant to law at
the time, but shall not euthanize these animals
for a minimum of five full days (120 hours).
2. If an impounded animal is suffering from
or suspected to have an infectious or contagious
disease, or is injured or debilitated to such an
extent that it is experiencing pain or suffering as
determined by a veterinarian or competent
designee(s), or the animal poses an immediate
substantial risk to staff or visitors to the shelter,
the animal may be euthanized prior to the
expiration of the three day (72 hour) hold.
3. Impoundment of cattle require legal notifica-
tions as specified in F.S. § 588.17.
4. The County Manager or designee shall
make at least three attempts to contact the
owner of an impounded animal, if the owner's
identity is known or easily ascertained, before
the animal's humane disposition. Dogs, identi-
fied cats, and other animals not claimed within
the specified hold period, may be adopted,
transferred, or may be euthanized by any method
specified in F.S. § 828.058.
5. Animals that are impounded for safe keep-
ing at the request of a first-responding agency
due to the death or medical emergency or
incarceration of its owner or caretaker, shall be
held for a minimum of five days (120 hours).
After five days (120 hours) the Division will hold
the animals for an additional five days (120
hours) and the County Manager or designee
shall make at least three attempts to contact the
owner during this time. Animals not claimed
after this ten-day (240-hour) period, may be
adopted, transferred, placed with a qualified
foster, or may be euthanized, at the discretion of
the County Manager or designee.
6. Animals shall be released to owners on
presentation of proof of ownership and payment
of costs and fees. Proof of ownership may include
a County rabies/license tag, veterinary records,
tattoo, bill of sale, adoption contract, registered
(RFID) microchip, affidavits from two separate
neighbors, other reliable documentary or anecdotal
evidence deemed reliable by the County Manager
or designee; along with a signed affidavit affirm-
ing ownership. If ownership cannot be proven,
the animal must remain at Domestic Animal
Services for the established hold period prior to
reclaiming.
A. Fees.
(1) Fees related to impoundments may
include, but are not limited to;
impoundment fees, advertising fees
for impounded livestock, laboratory
and veterinarian fees, transporta-
tion fees, and daily board.
(2) Fees are established and revised by
resolutions adopted by the board of
county commissioners.
B. Microchipping.
(1) Dogs and cats that have been
impounded shall be implanted with
a radio frequency identification
devise (RFID) (microchip) by animal
§ 14-40 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:28Supp. No. 122
services' staff at the owner's expense
prior to being released to the owner.
(2) Animals that are already micro-
chipped when impounded, must have
the information on the microchip
recorded by animal services. The
information must be accurate and
current. If the information is not
current, the owner must come into
compliance with this section prior
to having the animal released.
(3) At the discretion of the County
Manager or designee, the animal
may be released to the owner with a
Notice to Comply to have the animal
microchipped and applicable pay-
ment specified by resolution. The
fee will be refundable within thirty
(30) days if services are provided by
a non-animal services licensed
veterinarian. The owner will be
required to submit a statement
within fifteen (15) days, signed by a
licensed veterinarian, confirming
that the animal has been so
implanted and provide the microchip
number to animal services. Failure
to provide proof of microchipping
shall result in a penalty as specified
in the penalty schedule. No micro-
chipping is required if a licensed
veterinarian certifies in writing that
microchipping would endanger the
animal's health.
C. Mandatory spay/neuter.
(1) Dogs and cats that have been
impounded shall be spayed/neutered
at the owner's expense prior to being
released to the owner.
(2) No spay/neuter is required if a
licensed veterinarian certifies in
writing that the surgery would
endanger the animal's health or if a
licensed veterinarian with whom the
pet owner has a previously
established doctor-patient-client
relationship certifies in writing that
the animal is of appropriate health,
conformation, and temperament to
be bred. Such certification is to be
made on a sworn statement provided
by the County. The owner of the
animal will also certify on an
affidavit to be provided by the County
that he or she will comply with the
provisions of this Ordinance or all
laws and ordinances governing the
regulation of breeders. An owner
shall not use this exemption more
than one (1) time per animal; manda-
tory sterilization is required based
on a second impoundment. The
animal shall only be released to the
owner with a signed Notice to
Comply allowing the owner fifteen
(15) days to comply with and/or
register as a Hobby Breeder or Com-
mercial-Breeder. Failure to register
as a Hobby Breeder or Commercial-
Breeder will result in a penalty as
specified in the penalty schedule.
7. Voluntary surrender.
A. Person(s) wishing to surrender an animal
shall be allowed to do so at the discretion
of the County Manager or designee. Every
person who voluntarily surrenders an
animal must provide a valid photo
identification that shows proof of residence
and sign a form acknowledging that the
surrender is voluntary and acknowledg-
ing the discretion of the animal control
division to dispose of the animal. Animal
services shall not be liable for the disposi-
tion of any voluntarily surrendered animal
after receipt of the animal from its owner.
The animal shall be immediately avail-
able for adoption, placement or other
appropriate disposition once surrendered.
B. Person(s) surrendering animals shall be
responsible for paying an intake fee.
C. Person(s) wishing to surrender an animal
with the request for euthanasia shall be
allowed to do so at the discretion of
animal services. It is not the policy or
practice of animal services to supply
"on-demand" euthanasia procedures, but
§ 14-41ANIMALS
CD14:29Supp. No. 122
in the interest of relieving a suffering
animal, or for aggressive animals that
pose a safety risk, animal services may
provide the service for a fee, at the
County Manager's or designee's sole
discretion.
D. No surrendered or stray animals from
outside the Divisions jurisdiction shall
be accepted except for humane reasons
or if the animal was previously adopted
from the Division; such animals shall be
referred to another agency. The photo
identification of the owner/person wish-
ing to surrender an animal that shows
an address outside of the Divisions
jurisdiction shall be used as the current
address of the animal.
E. An animal that has bitten a human may
be surrendered to the Division for
quarantine pursuant to the applicable
provisions of the Florida Administrative
Code 64D-3, as may be amended. An
animal surrendered for quarantine to
the Division is subject to all require-
ments Section Sixteen [§ 14-41] prior to
reclaim.
F. It is a violation of this section for any
person to falsely identify himself or herself
as an owner or owner's agent.
8. Animals not claimed within the appropri-
ate holding period may be adopted, subject to the
provisions below:
A. Adoption fees are established and revised
by resolutions adopted by the board of
county commissioners.
B. In order to adopt an animal, a person
must be at least 18 years of age and
provide photo identification and/or other
proof of residency.
C. Administration of the neuter/spay
program shall remain under the control
of the County Manager or designee.
Accounting for the disbursement of the
neuter/spay fees shall be in accordance
with procedures of the county's finance
department.
D. Dogs and cats that are adopted shall be
microchipped by animal services' staff.
E. Dogs and cats that are adopted shall be
spayed/neutered by animal services'
veterinarian or a licensed veterinarian
contracted by animal services prior to
being released to the adopter.
F. If a dog or cat adopted from animal
services is not sterilized prior to place-
ment in the adopter's home, the adopter
shall have the animal sterilized by a
licensed veterinarian within 30 days of
the adoption or prior to the animal's
sexual maturity. The adopter shall enter
into a written agreement with the county
guaranteeing such sterilization and pay
a deposit from the adopter as established
by Resolution of the Board of County
Commissioners, which deposit shall be
refundable upon presentation to the Divi-
sion or written evidence by the veterinar-
ian performing the sterilization surgery
that the animal has been sterilized as
specified in F.S. § 823.15. If the
subsequent sterilization is not performed
by animal services' veterinarian or a
licensed veterinarian contracted by animal
services, the adopter shall be responsible
for the expense and shall forfeit the
deposit. Assumption of financial
responsibility does not relieve the adopter
of the requirement to provide written
proof of sterilization within the specified
time limit. Animal Control Officers are
authorized to impound or to issue a
Notice to Comply and/or citations for
failure to sterilize any dog or cat adopted
from the animal shelter.
G. The County Manager or designee has the
final authority to approve the adoption of
any animal. The County Manager or
designee may refuse an adoption if it
determines that the adoption is not in
the best interest of the animal, or
detrimental to the health, safety or welfare
of the general public.
9. No person, or on behalf of any other person
or entity whatsoever, shall acquire or attempt to
acquire actual or constructive possession of any
§ 14-41 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:30Supp. No. 122
animal for any use in research, testing, animal
fighting, or animal sacrifice, from the actual or
constructive possession of any county animal
services center, or from any person or entity
operating or controlling any animal custody facil-
ity, pound, or animal shelter that is then leased
from the county by a lease that prohibits such
use, or is then under a contract with the county
which contract prohibits such use. Such use
includes the immediate or eventual sale, transfer,
gift, trade, donation, delivery, or any other provi-
sion of any animal for use in research, testing,
and/or animal sacrifice. No employee, volunteer,
worker, agent or other representative of any
such entity shall knowingly release from the
actual or constructive possession of any such
entity, any animal for any such known or suspected
use.
10. Failure to comply with the requirements
of this section shall be a violation of this Ordinance
and punishable as provided in Section Fifteen
(§ 14-40).
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1; Ord. No. 2024-26, § 1;
Ord. No. 2025-44, § 5)
Sec. 14-42. Wild Animals.
It shall be unlawful for any person to maintain
or keep a wild animal except:
1. Owners licensed by the State Fish and
Wildlife Conservation Commission and
confined to the owner's premises in a
cage or enclosure.
2. A wild animal for exhibition purposes
maintained by a licensed circus, zoo,
attraction or educational institution.
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1)
Sec. 14-43. Psittacine birds.
1. A Psittacine bird known to be infected with
the Psittacosis virus, or to have been associated
with a bird known to be infected, shall be
quarantined until released by the health officer.
No bird shall be removed from where an infected
bird is found until the quarantine is lifted.
2. When human contamination is traced to an
aviary a reasonable number of birds will be
confiscated for virus examination.
3. Infected birds shall be killed and their
bodies immersed in two percent Creosol and
burned before the feathers are dry if the bodies
are not shipped for laboratory examination. Ship-
ment for laboratory examination shall be made
in accordance with instructions by the health
officer.
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1)
Sec. 14-44. Community cats.
1. Collier County recognizes that there are
community cat caregivers and acknowledges that
community cats living in colonies may be toler-
ated living outdoors, provided such cats are
properly cared for in accordance with the follow-
ing requirements:
A. All community cats living in colonies
shall be cared for on the private property
of the community cat caregiver or with
the permission of the property owner or
property manager.
B. Community cat caregivers shall provide
certain necessities on a regular and ongo-
ing basis, including, but not limited to,
proper nutrition and medical care, as
needed.
C. Free-roaming cats living in colonies shall
be sterilized, ear-tipped, and vaccinated
for rabies. Community cats living in
colonies shall be exempt from rabies
registration license requirements of Sec-
tion Eight (§ 14-33) and the stray animal
provisions of Section Sixteen (§ 14-41).
D. Food shall be provided in the proper
quantity for the number of cats being
managed and is to be supplied no less
than once per day. Food must be placed
in feeding containers that are maintained
and secure.
E. Water must be clean, potable, and free
from debris and algae.
F. Shelter, if provided, shall be unobtrusive,
safe, and of the proper size for the com-
munity cat(s).
G. Healthy community cats that have been
impounded by the Division may be
immediately returned-to-field, released
§ 14-44ANIMALS
CD14:31Supp. No. 122
to a community cat caregiver, or, if
considered sufficiently socialized, adopted.
Community cats who have been
impounded more than once may be
considered a community nuisance and
may be euthanized at the discretion of
the Division. Notwithstanding the forego-
ing, whenever an impounded community
cat is visibly injured or diseased, is
determined to be a nuisance, appears to
be suffering, or upon the advice of a
veterinarian, then the Division may
euthanize the community cat pursuant
to the stray animal provisions of Section
Sixteen (§ 14-41). Animal services has
the right to immediately seize and
humanely destroy any Community Cat
that poses a public health or safety concern
by virtue of disease (rabies or other
epizootic events), aggressive tempera-
ment resulting in unprovoked attacks on
humans, or any other reason concerning
public health and safety.
2. Management programs to reduce the
uncontrolled reproduction of community cats
shall be implemented by the County Manager or
designee to provide for the sterilization and
return-to-field of all healthy community cats
entering animal services.
A. All community cats entering animal
services shall be counted toward intake
and, upon return-to-field, shall be counted
as a live-release.
B. All community cats entering animal
services shall be examined for tempera-
ment to evaluate their ability to survive
in an outdoor environment with or without
assistance from a community cat caregiver.
C. Community cats shall be sterilized, ear-
tipped, vaccinated to include rabies vac-
cination, implanted with a radio frequency
identification devise (RFID) (microchip)
and returned to the original point of
pick-up by a Pet Placement Partner,
volunteer, or an Animal Control Officer.
However, any community cat may be
euthanized upon the Discretion of the
County Manager or designee in accordance
with Section Nineteen (§ 14-44), 1.G,
above.
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1; Ord. No. 2024-26, § 1)
Sec. 14-45. Injury to animals by motor
vehicles; reporting require-
ment.
Any person who, as the operator of a motor
vehicle, strikes a domestic animal shall stop at
once and render such assistance as may be
possible without risking personal safety and
shall immediately report such injury or death to
the animal's owner. In the event the owner
cannot be ascertained and located, such operator
shall at once report the accident to the appropri-
ate law enforcement agency and/or animal
services.
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1)
Sec. 14-46. Disposal of bodies of dead
animals.
1. Any owner of any animal, upon the death
of such animal, shall immediately dispose of the
carcass by burning, burying at least two (2) feet
below the surface of the ground, or other
authorized method of disposal; however, nothing
in this section shall prohibit the disposal of such
animal carcass to companies licensed to do busi-
nesses in this County.
2. It is unlawful to dispose of the carcass of
any animal by dumping such carcass on any
public or private property.
3. Any owner of any animal shall be responsible
for the costs of disposing of the animal in
instances where the Division disposes of the
animal due to any emergency or the owner's
failure to act. The costs of disposal shall be
established by the Board by resolution.
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1)
Sec. 14-47. Tampering with animal traps
or capture devices.
No person shall willfully tamper with, remove,
alter, destroy, or disable any animal control trap,
cage or capture device, set out or placed by an
animal control officer or a person or organization
§ 14-44 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:32Supp. No. 122
authorized by the animal control division. Any
person who violates this section is subject to a
fine in an amount set by resolution of the board
of county commissioners.
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1)
Sec. 14-48. Livestock.
1. Livestock fences. Every owner of livestock
shall erect and/or maintain a fence to contain
and confine all livestock kept or maintained on
his/her premises. Such fence shall be sufficiently
strong and substantial so as to prevent egress of
livestock. Failure to so erect and/or maintain the
fence in reasonably good condition shall be deemed
a violation of this chapter. The owner of livestock
shall, within twenty-four (24) hours of initial
contact from the Division, repair or erect a fence
and/or make arrangements for the placement of
livestock so as to have the livestock confined. If
the fence is not repaired or erected, or arrange-
ments have not been made for the placement of
livestock within the twenty-four-hour period, the
owner may receive a civil citation.
2. Livestock at large. Any owner of livestock
who unlawfully, intentionally, knowingly or
negligently permits the same to run at large or
stray upon any street, roadway, right-of-way,
other public area or the private property of
another without consent or their authorized
agent or lessee, shall be deemed to be in violation
of this chapter.
3. Equine infectious anemia/Coggins.
A. All horses within the County or
transported into the County must have a
report of a negative Coggins (EIA) test
conducted within the previous twelve
(12) months. A foal under six (6) months
of age, is exempted from test require-
ments when accompanied by its dam
which has a report of a negative Coggins
test conducted within the past twelve
(12) months.
B. All horses, other than those sold for
slaughter, must have a report of a nega-
tive Coggins test conducted within the
previous twelve (12) months for change
of ownership. The negative Coggins test
report must be provided to the new owner
or custodian at the time of change of
location or ownership.
(Ord. No. 2018-33, § 1)
Secs. 14-49, 14-50. Reserved.
ARTICLE III. EQUINE INFECTIOUS
ANEMIA
Sec. 14-51. Definitions.
The following words, terms and phrases, when
used in this article, shall have the meanings
ascribed to them in this section, except where
the context clearly indicates a different meaning:
Accredited veterinarian means a licensed
veterinarian approved by the United States
Department of Agriculture and Consumer
Services.
Equine infectious anemia means a disease of
horses caused by a virus spread by insects and
improper use of hypodermic instruments which
may be acute, subacute, chronic or inapparent
and commonly called "horse fever".
Horse means a mule, donkey, burro, ass, zebra
or other equidae.
(Ord. No. 76-13, § 1)
Cross reference—Definitions generally, § 1-2.
Sec. 14-52. Construction.
The provisions of this article are cumulative
and supplemental to federal and state laws and
rules and other ordinances and regulations of
the county and municipalities therein, and shall
be liberally construed to effectuate the purpose
of protecting the public welfare.
(Ord. No. 76-13, § 1)
Sec. 14-53. Adoption of references.
(a) This article specifically incorporates by
reference the provisions of F.S. §§ 585.15—
585.19 and 585.671 and Chapter 5C-18 of the
Rules of the State Department of Agriculture
and Consumer Services, Division of Animal
Industry, concerning the control of equine infec-
tious anemia.
§ 14-53ANIMALS
CD14:33Supp. No. 122
(b) The provisions of F.S. § 828.05 et seq.,
regulate the care, feeding and treatment of
animals.
(Ord. No. 76-13, § 1)
Sec. 14-54. Prohibited activities.
(a) It shall be unlawful for any person:
(1) To own, control or possess, or have the
right to control or possess a horse within
the county without possessing a certificate
by an accredited veterinarian that the
horse has been tested for equine infec-
tious anemia within the immediate
preceding 12-month period.
(2) To transport or cause to be transported a
horse into the county without having
first obtained and having in his posses-
sion a certificate by an accredited
veterinarian that such horse has been
tested for equine infectious anemia within
the immediate preceding 12-month period.
(b) It shall be unlawful for any person to own,
control, possess or have the right to control or
possess, a horse within the county that reacts
positively to a test for equine infectious anemia,
given by an accredited veterinarian, without
causing such horse to be quarantined in an
enclosure, effectively screened to exclude mosqui-
tos and other major insect vectors, a minimum of
600 feet distant from other horses or otherwise
as provided by law.
(c) It shall be unlawful for any person to deny
an official sheriff, police, animal regulation or
agricultural officer of the United States, state or
county, or any accredited veterinarian, entrance
or access to any horse he suspects may be
infected with equine infectious anemia or to
refuse to allow an accredited veterinarian to test
any horse for equine infectious anemia.
(Ord. No. 76-13, § 1)
Secs. 14-55—14-75. Reserved.
ARTICLE IV. STANDARDS OF CARE FOR
ANIMAL-RELATED BUSINESSES AND
ORGANIZATIONS; BREEDERS; AND
RODEOS
Sec. 14-76. Purpose of Ordinance.
The purpose of this Ordinance is to create the
Standards of Care authorized by Section Fourteen
of the Collier County Animal Control Ordinance.
This Ordinance is expressly limited to animal-
related businesses, animal-related organiza-
tions, commercial breeders, hobby breeders, and
rodeos and is to be read in conjunction with the
Collier County Animal Control Ordinance.
(Ord. No. 2013-55, § 1; Ord. No. 2025-45, § 1)
Sec. 14-77. General Standards of Care.
Anyone who owns or maintains an animal-
related business, animal-related organization,
commercial breeder, hobby breeder, or rodeo
must provide that animal:
1. Freedom from hunger or thirst by ready
access to fresh water and a diet to
maintain full health and vigor;
2. Freedom from discomfort by providing
an appropriate environment including
shelter and a comfortable resting area;
3. Freedom from pain, injury or disease by
prevention or rapid diagnosis and treat-
ment;
4. Freedom to express normal behavior by
providing sufficient space, proper facili-
ties and company of the animal's own
kind; and
5. Freedom from fear and distress by ensur-
ing conditions and treatment which avoid
mental suffering.
(Ord. No. 2013-55, § 2; Ord. No. 2025-45, § 1)
Sec. 14-78. Proper Animal Husbandry.
Anyone who owns or maintains an animal-
related business, animal-related organization,
§ 14-53 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:34Supp. No. 122
commercial breeder, hobby breeder, or rodeo
must exercise proper Animal Husbandry, which
includes the following practices:
1. Animal enclosures must be safe, sanitary,
dry, and must protect the animals from
the elements.
2. Animal enclosures shall be large enough
for each animal contained therein to
stand up, sit down, lie down, and turn
around simultaneously.
3. Where an enclosure is used sequentially
for more than one animal during the
course of a day, the enclosure will be
cleaned, sanitized and dried between each
animal.
4. Airline-type containers normally used for
shipping and transporting animals shall
not be used to permanently house animals.
5. Where animals are incompatible, they
shall be contained separately in appropri-
ate enclosures.
6. Housing facilities for animals must be
clean and sufficiently ventilated at all
times when animals are present to provide
for their health, comfort and well-being.
7. Housing facilities for animals must be
sufficiently heated and cooled when neces-
sary to protect the animals from cold and
hot temperatures and to provide for their
health, comfort and well-being.
8. Premises where animals are housed shall
have sufficient lighting and provide a
diurnal lighting cycle, by either natural
or artificial light, corresponding to the
natural period of daylight and night. If
artificial light is provided, it must emulate
natural light.
9. Premises where animals are housed shall
be clean, orderly and free of garbage,
toxic substances, unused food, standing
water, sharp objects, litter or refuse.
10. Garbage shall be kept in garbage cans
with properly fitting lids and disposed of
regularly.
11. Bodies of dead animals must be disposed
of according to applicable county and
state regulations, policies and laws.
12. Food shall be stored in such a way as to
prevent contamination by rodents, pests
and moisture. Food storage containers
shall be clearly and properly labeled as
to contents.
13. Any poisonous plants growing in or near
where herbivorous animals are being
housed should be removed.
14. All chemicals, pesticides, cleaning solu-
tions and disinfectants shall be stored
and used in accordance with manufactur-
ers' instructions, properly labeled as to
content and kept away from contact with
animals and animal food.
15. All animal feces shall be removed and
disposed of properly. Livestock manure
which has been removed from animal
enclosures shall be maintained the
maximum feasible distance from animal
housing. Animal feces shall not be allowed
to contaminate surrounding waters.
16. Food dishes and water bowls shall be
cleaned daily.
17. When communal feeding containers are
used, there shall be sufficient space to
feed all the animals simultaneously.
18. Animals shall be provided with food of
sufficient quantity and quality to allow
for normal growth and maintenance of a
healthy body weight.
19. Fresh water shall be available to all
animals daily and shall be maintained in
a container in such a manner that animals
cannot turn the container over.
20. Food and water shall be fresh, appropri-
ate for the animal, and free from
contamination.
21. Animals must be given exercise appropri-
ate for their species, breed, and size.
22. The responsible party must follow
veterinary instructions for any sick or
injured animal. Proof of adequate, timely
§ 14-78ANIMALS
CD14:35Supp. No. 122
veterinary care and follow-up must be
provided to animal services upon request.
23. Animals having a known or suspected
communicable animal-to-human disease
shall be maintained in isolation where
they cannot directly or indirectly come
into contact with any other animals or
the public. Applicable county and state
health regulations must be followed when
caring for any animal harboring an
animal-to-human disease.
24. Any animal that cannot stand on its own
or that has a life threatening disease
must be hospitalized, housed under the
direction of a licensed veterinarian or
humanely euthanized in accordance with
F.S. § 828.058.
25. Animals shall not be worked in a sick,
diseased or injured condition.
26. Animals shall not be abused, mistreated,
tormented or in any manner made to
suffer by any person or any means.
27. Any enclosure used as a primary means
of confinement for a dog must meet the
definition of proper enclosure as defined
in the Collier County Animal Control
Ordinance.
28. Cats must be provided access to a
receptacle containing sufficient clean litter
to contain excreta and body wastes.
29. Cats must be provided solid resting
surface(s) that are sufficient to hold all
cats at the same time comfortably.
30. Livestock normally maintained in outdoor
areas must have access to shelter that
provides protection from the direct rays
of the sun and the direct effect of wind
and rain and is of sufficient size and/or
number to provide enough space for each
animal to comfortably stand up, sit down,
lie down and turn around in the shelter
simultaneously.
31. Livestock shall have access to dry ground
at all times.
32. Livestock shall be provided access to an
appropriately fenced open area for routine
exercise.
33. Livestock must be securely confined and
not permitted to run at large.
34. Livestock shall not be left unattended
while tethered.
35. Equine and ovine shall have hooves
trimmed so as to prevent lameness and
extreme overgrowth.
36. Equine must have documentation by a
licensed veterinarian certifying that the
equine has been tested for Equine Infec-
tious Anemia (Coggins test) within the
preceding twelve-month period.
37. Animals other than those specifically
enumerated herein shall be cared for
pursuant to general guidelines and
accepted animal husbandry standards
for each species.
(Ord. No. 2013-55, § 3; Ord. No. 2025-45, § 1)
Sec. 14-79. Regulations for Animal-
Related Businesses and
Organizations.
A. Posting of Permit. Each animal-related busi-
ness and organization will prominently display a
current, valid county animal services-issued
operational permit.
B. Safety.
1. Each animal-related business or organiza-
tion which accepts privately owned
animals into its custody shall report to
animal services any obvious case of neglect
or animal abuse pursuant to the Collier
County Animal Control Ordinance, these
Standards, or F.S. ch. 828, "Cruelty to
Animals." Animal services' phone number
shall be posted in a prominent location.
2. Each animal-related business or organiza-
tion will post emergency contact informa-
tion in a prominent place visible from the
exterior of the main entrance to the
premises. If an animal-related organiza-
tion is located in a premises used primar-
ily as a residence, this contact information
§ 14-78 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:36Supp. No. 122
does not need to be prominently posted,
but must be kept current and on file with
animal services, the local law enforce-
ment entity, and the local fire depart-
ment. This contact shall be available at
all hours in case of emergencies or other
enforcement-related matters.
3. Each animal-related business or organiza-
tion shall have a written disaster plan to
address both immediate and noticed
evacuation of all animals in case of an
emergency. This plan shall be posted in a
prominent location.
4. Each animal-related business or organiza-
tion shall have a working telephone avail-
able at all times in case of an emergency.
The name of the establishment's veterinar-
ian and the veterinarian's phone number
shall be posted in a prominent location.
5. Each animal-related business or organiza-
tion shall provide for adequate rodent
and insect control.
C. Records.
1. Each animal-related business or organiza-
tion shall keep records on all animals
currently under its care. These records
shall be maintained on each animal
individually.
2. The information in these records shall
include but not be limited to rabies vac-
cination, all other inoculations and
prescription or medical treatments
administered.
3. Where the animal-related business or
organization has a duty to care for, but
not a right of ownership in the animal,
records shall also include the owner's
name, address, emergency telephone
number, owner's proof of identification,
and name and telephone number of
owner's veterinarian. In addition, a medi-
cal release must be obtained from the
owner or his designee for each animal
and shall become part of the animal's
record so that emergency treatment can
be given if the animal shows signs of
illness or is injured while in the care and
custody of the animal-related entity.
Exceptions to this provision may be made
on a case-by-case basis when due to
extenuating circumstances it is in the
best interest of the animal for the animal
owner to remain anonymous.
4. Where the animal-related business or
organization has a right of ownership in
the animal, records shall indicate where
the animal was obtained.
5. A copy of a current (within the previous
twelve months) negative Coggins test
(equine infectious anemia) shall be on
record for each equine (except nursing
foals). No equine shall be accepted for
board unless a current (within the past
twelve months) negative Coggins test
record is produced by the owner.
6. All records as described herein shall be
kept for a period of two years.
7. All records shall be made available to the
inspecting officer upon request.
D. Groomers.
1. Clippers, combs, brushes and any other
equipment shall be sanitized after each
animal grooming.
2. Animals shall not be left unattended
while tethered to grooming stations.
3. Clean, separate drying towels shall be
used for each individual animal groomed.
4. Tepid water must be used for the purpose
of washing dogs and cats. Cold water is
not acceptable.
5. Grooming bathtubs shall be sanitized
after each animal grooming. Grooming
bathtubs shall be maintained free of
mold and mildew.
6. Clippers, dryers, combs, brushes and any
other grooming equipment shall be
maintained in good repair so that they
are appropriate for the intended safe use
per the manufacturers' or suppliers'
instructions.
§ 14-79ANIMALS
CD14:37Supp. No. 122
E. Long-term Nonresidential (Institutional)
Housing of Dogs.
1. Dogs maintained in a nonresidential set-
ting for a period longer than three months
shall be afforded protective measures.
The responsible party shall notify animal
services regarding all dogs maintained in
a nonresidential setting for longer than
three months and shall comply with the
following requirements:
a. A veterinarian will examine the
animal once every six months. Dogs
not maintained on a heartworm
preventative program shall be given
an occult heartworm test and started
on preventative or treated for same.
b. A professional behaviorist or trainer
will evaluate the animal once every
three months and recommend a
behavioral enrichment program.
c. The dog will receive a minimum of
fifty minutes of play, interaction,
grooming and/or training each week
or the care stipulated by the recom-
mended behavioral enrichment
program, whichever is more
stringent. Dogs with medical condi-
tions prohibiting play or training
sessions shall be excluded from this
requirement upon written certifica-
tion of the medical condition by a
licensed veterinarian.
d. Records shall be kept evidencing
compliance with the above.
(Ord. No. 2013-55, § 4)
Sec. 14-80. Regulations for Rodeos.
A. Posting of Permit. The operator of a rodeo
will prominently display a current, valid county
animal services-issued operational permit.
B. Safety.
1. The operator of a rodeo shall report to
animal services any obvious case of neglect
or animal abuse pursuant to the Collier
County Animal Control Ordinance, these
Standards, or F.S. ch. 828, "Cruelty to
Animals." Animal services' phone number
shall be posted in a prominent location.
2. The operator of a rodeo event shall meet
all fire safety requirements in accordance
with the local fire and zoning regula-
tions.
3. The operator of a rodeo shall have a
written emergency plan to address, as is
necessary, inclement weather, veterinary
medical emergencies, attendee safety, and
crowd control. This plan shall be posted
in a prominent location.
C. Public Awareness. The operator of a rodeo
event shall make available to attendees literature
to be provided by animal services outlining the
provisions of the Collier County Animal Control
Ordinance.
D. Rodeo Regulations.
1. The operator of a rodeo shall provide
animal services with:
a. A diagram of the arena, showing
location of the chutes, catch chutes,
and pens; a list of all proposed
events and acts; and a copy of the
rules and regulations which will
govern the conduct of the contestants
and events;
b. The name and contact information
of a veterinarian who will be avail-
able for all shows; and
c. Evidence of testing for infectious
equine anemia within the previous
immediate twelve (12) months, with
negative results for all equine.
2. The operator of a rodeo shall ensure that:
a. A licensed veterinarian shall be
available for all shows;
b. An ambulance and medical
attendants shall be available on the
grounds for emergency purposes;
c. Any tack, equipment, device,
substance or material that is injuri-
ous or could cause unnecessary
cruelty is prohibited;
§ 14-79 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:38Supp. No. 122
d. All stock is strong, healthy, and
physically sound in order to perform
in the assigned events;
e. Chutes are so constructed as to
prevent injury to the stock, and that
the arena is free of rocks, holes, and
all obstacles which could cause injury
to animals or contestants;
f. All flank straps and equipment is
removed from stock in catch chutes
as soon as possible and that injured
animals remain in the catch chute
until examined and released by the
attending veterinarian; and
g. Rowels on spurs of all contestants
are short, dull, and free to revolve.
(Ord. No. 2013-55, § 5)
Sec. 14-81. Regulations for Breeders and
Pet Shops.
A. Permit Notification.
1. The appropriate permit number shall be
provided on all advertisements and promo-
tions concerning the sale or transfer of
ownership of an animal.
2. The appropriate permit number shall be
provided to all persons who buy or accept
ownership of an animal.
B. Requirements for Sale or Transfer of Owner-
ship of Dogs and Cats.
1. Dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens acquired
for resale must be examined by a licensed
veterinarian within five business days of
physical acquisition.
2. Dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens offered
for sale or transfer of ownership must be
at least eight weeks of age.
3. Dogs, cats, puppies and kittens offered
for sale or transfer of ownership must be
accompanied by an Official Certificate of
Veterinary Inspection (OCVI).
4. The OCVI must contain the following
information:
a. The date of the examination by the
examining veterinarian.
b. The examining veterinarian's license
number.
c. The examining veterinarian's
signature.
d. The age, breed, sex, color, and any
distinguishing marks of the animal.
e. The health record of the animal.
f. Any tests performed and their
results, and any vaccinations or other
treatments administered, including
vaccine type, lot number, expiration
date, and date of administration,
including those not specifically
enumerated below.
g. A statement that the examining
veterinarian warrants, to the best
of his knowledge, that the dog or cat
has no sign of contagious or infec-
tious diseases and has no evidence
of internal or external parasites,
including coccidiosis and ear mites,
but excluding fleas and ticks.
h. A statement concerning whether or
not the examining veterinarian has
detected any physical abnormalities
in the dog or cat, including but not
limited to a heart murmur, and
umbilical hernia, entropion, and
inguinal hernia, and cryptorchid-
ism.
5. The OCVI must document that the fol-
lowing inoculations, tests, and treat-
ments have been administered, unless
the veterinarian certifies on the OCVI
that to inoculate or deworm the animal is
not in the best medical interest of the
animal, in which case the vaccine or
anthelmintic may not be administered to
that particular animal:
a. For dogs or puppies:
i. Vaccination against canine
distemper, leptospirosis, borde-
tella, parainfluenza, hepatitis,
and canine parvovirus. A rabies
inoculation must be provided
for any dog over three months
of age.
§ 14-81ANIMALS
CD14:39Supp. No. 122
ii. Diagnostic tests to detect the
following internal parasites:
hookworms, roundworms, whip-
worms, tapeworms, coccidia and
giardia. Heartworm detection
must occur for dogs six months
of age or older. Appropriate
treatment for all positive find-
ings must be documented.
b. For cats or kittens:
i. Vaccination against panleuko-
penia, feline viral rhino
tracheitis, and calici virus. A
rabies inoculation must be
provided for any cat over three
months of age.
ii. Diagnostic tests to detect the
following internal parasites:
hookworms, roundworms,
tapeworms and coccidia.
Appropriate treatment for all
positive findings must be
documented.
iii. Diagnostic test to detect Feline
Leukemia with the result listed
on the OCVI.
6. If the animal is less than four months of
age, the tests, vaccines, and anthelmint-
ics required above must be administered
no more than twenty-one days before
sale or transfer of ownership within the
county. If the animal is four months of
age or older, the tests, vaccines, and
anthelmintics required above must be
administered at or after three months of
age, but no more than one year before
sale or transfer of ownership within the
county.
7. The sale or transfer of ownership of the
dog, cat, puppy, or kitten shall take place
no more than thirty days after the OCVI
has been issued.
8. If a dog, cat, puppy, or kitten is not sold
or had ownership transferred within thirty
days of the issuance of the OCVI, then a
new examination and OCVI must be
obtained.
9. All dogs, cats, puppies and kittens offered
for sale or transfer of ownership must be
implanted with a microchip.
C. Records.
1. Breeders shall maintain records of each
litter of puppies and kittens born. Such
records shall include the date of birth,
number of puppies and litters born, and
the license tag number of each parent.
2. Pet shops shall maintain records of each
animal acquired for or transfer of owner-
ship. Such records shall include the name
and address of the source of the animal,
the animal's date of birth, and date the
animal was received.
3. Breeders and pet shops shall maintain a
separate record of each animal sold or
had ownership transferred containing the
breed, sex, color, and identifying marks
of the animal; all OCVIs and medical
records for each animal; the name and
address of the purchaser; and the number
of the microchip implanted in the animal.
If the disposition of the animal is not
through sale, the records shall indicate
the type and date of disposition, includ-
ing the name and address of any
subsequent owner, if one exists.
4. If a dog or cat dies while in the posses-
sion of a breeder or pet shop, the breeder
or pet shop shall secure the services of a
licensed veterinarian to determine the
cause of death or suspected cause of
death. The veterinarian shall document
the date of death and known or suspected
cause of death on an OCVI.
5. All records as described herein shall be
kept for a period of two years.
6. All records, including disposition of all
animals, shall be made available to the
inspecting officer upon request.
D. Disclosures.
1. At the time of sale or transfer of owner-
ship, breeders and pet shops must provide
the recipient with:
a. A copy of the complete record
pertaining to the individual animal
as described above;
§ 14-81 COLLIER COUNTY CODE
CD14:40Supp. No. 122
b. Literature to be provided by animal
services outlining the provisions of
the Collier County Animal Control
Ordinance; and
c. A copy of F.S. § 828.29, Dogs and
cats transported or offered for sale;
health requirements; consumer
guarantee.
2. The above information must be provided
to prospective purchasers upon request.
E. Pet Lemon Law.
1. All breeders and pet shops must comply
with any applicable provisions of F.S.
§ 828.29. Dogs and cats transported or
offered for sale; health requirements;
consumer guarantee. Where any conflict
exists between these standards and this
section, the more restrictive shall apply.
2. This section does not in any way limit the
rights or remedies that are otherwise
available to a consumer under any other
law.
F. Exemptions. Animal services, humane societ-
ies, and 501(c)3 rescue organizations shall be
exempt from the provisions of this section.
(Ord. No. 2013-55, § 6; Ord. No. 2025-45, § 1)
Sec. 14-82. Penalties.
Failure to abide by this Ordinance may result
in penalties as set forth in Section Fifteen of the
Collier County Animal Control Ordinance or
denial, revocation, or suspension of an entity's
County-issued license as provided in Section
Fourteen of the Collier County Animal Control
Ordinance. Anyone who receives a citation, has
been denied a permit or whose permit has been
revoked or suspended may appeal this action in
a court of competent jurisdiction within thirty
calendar days from the date of notice.
(Ord. No. 2013-55, § 7; Ord. No. 2025-45, § 1)
Editor’s note—Section nine of Ord. No. 2013-55 states:
"This Ordinance shall be effective by November 1, 2013."
Secs. 14-83—14-105. Reserved.
ARTICLE V. ANIMAL ABUSER REGISTRY
Sec. 14-106. Title.
This Ordinance shall be known and may be
cited as the "Collier County Animal Abuser
Registry Ordinance."
(Ord. No. 2024-24, § 1)
Sec. 14-107. Definitions.
The following words, phrases, or terms when
used in this Ordinance shall, unless otherwise
indicated, have the meanings provided below:
A. Animal shall mean, generally, any living
dumb creature, as provided for in Florida
Statutes, but limited to mammals, birds
and reptiles.
B. Animal Enjoinment shall mean any person
enjoined by the Court from further pos-
session or custody of other animals under
Section 828.073(4)(c)(3), Florida Statutes
or otherwise by Court order.
C. Abuser shall mean any persons eighteen
(18) years of age or older, including
juveniles tried as an adult, who have
been convicted or adjudicated delinquent,
regardless of whether adjudication is with-
held of an Abuse Offense.
D. Abuse Offense shall mean the commis-
sion of any act that constitutes the
criminal offense of:
1. Cruelty to animals under Section
828.12, Florida Statutes;
2. Fighting or baiting animals under
Section 828.122, Florida Statutes;
3. Killing a dog or cat with the intent
to sell or give away its pelt under
Section 828.123, Florida Statutes;
4. Killing or aggravated abuse of horse
or cattle under Section 828.125,
Florida Statutes;
5. Sexual activities involving animals
under Section 828.126, Florida
Statutes;
§ 14-107ANIMALS
CD14:41Supp. No. 122
6. Confinement of animals without suf-
ficient food, water, or exercise under
Section 828.13, Florida Statutes;
7. Violation of Section 500.451, Florida
Statutes;
8. With respect to farm animals, any
animal abuse convictions or
adjudicated delinquent, regardless
of whether adjudication is withheld.
E. Abuser Registry shall mean the online
Registry established by this Ordinance
for registering any person residing in
Collier County convicted of an Abuse
Offense.
F. Animal Shelter shall mean any public or
privately owned organization, including,
but not limited to, any incorporated
humane society, pound, animal protec-
tive association or animal rescue group
which maintains buildings, structures,
or other property for the purpose of
harboring animals which may be stray,
unwanted, lost, abandoned, or abused
and seeks to find appropriate temporary
or permanent homes for such animals.
G. Companion Animal shall mean a
domesticated or tamed animal intended
to provide companionship, to be used for
personal use or enjoyment, or raised or
intended to be raised for non-agricultural
purposes; not to include a service animal
or other animal or wildlife under the
exclusive jurisdiction of the State.
H. Board shall mean the Board of County
Commissioners of Collier County, Florida.
I. Conviction shall mean an adjudication of
guilt or adjudicated delinquent, regard-
less of whether adjudication is withheld,
by any Court of competent jurisdiction,
whether upon a verdict or plea of guilty
or nolo contendere plea of one or more of
the applicable Abuse Offenses.
J. County shall mean Collier County or its
designated agent.
K. Farm Animal shall mean horses or
animals used in the production of human
or animal food, feed or fiber regardless of
whether or not the animal is actually
being used or raised for such purposes.
L. Person shall mean any individual
(eighteen (18) years of age or older, includ-
ing, when appropriate, juveniles tried as
an adult), firm, association, joint venture,
partnership, estate, trust, business trust,
syndicate, fiduciary, corporation, entity,
or any group or combination thereof.
M. Pet Seller shall mean any individual or
person, partnership, firm, corporation or
other entity which offers animals for sale
or is engaged in the sale, exchange, or
other transfer of ownership of animals.
N. Registrant shall mean any individual or
person required by this Ordinance to
register with the Sheriff for the Collier
County Animal Abuser Registry.
O. Service Animal shall mean any dog or
miniature horse that has been individu-
ally trained to do work or perform tasks
for people with disabilities as defined
under the Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA).
(Ord. No. 2024-24, § 2)
Sec. 14-108. Establishing an abuser
registry.
The Collier County Sheriff's Office ("Sheriff")
shall establish an online Abuser Registry
("Registry ") that shall contain the names,
residence, photo, and other related information
of certain Abusers living in the County who are
convicted of an Abuse Offense on or after the
effective date of this Ordinance. The online
Registry will be maintained by the Sheriff, shall
be listed on the Sheriff's official website, (avail-
able to be posted on the website of other public
agencies) and may contain links to other Abuser
Registries that are available, or as they become
available in the future, to be used as informational
resources by Animal Shelters, Pet Sellers, or
other persons or entities located in Collier County
when they sell, exchange or otherwise transfer
the ownership of an animal. The Sheriff and/or
any other affiliated agencies may promulgate
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CD14:42Supp. No. 122
internal policies and procedures, as may be
amended from time to time, necessary for the
implementation of this Ordinance.
The Registry shall contain the required
information about each particular Abuser, follow-
ing his or her release from incarceration or, if not
incarcerated, from the date of the judgment of
conviction:
A. For a period of three (3) years for a first
conviction of a misdemeanor Abuse
Offense;
B. For a period of five (5) years for a first
conviction of a felony Abuse Offense; and
C. For a period of ten (10) years for a second
or subsequent conviction of either a
misdemeanor or felony Abuse Offense;
D. For an additional period of three (3)
years following any violation of this
Ordinance.
The page where the Registry is housed will
also include a list of people who are enjoined
from custody of animals either in a civil case
under Section 828.073(4)(c)(3), Florida Statutes,
or otherwise under Court order or as a condition
of their sentencing in a criminal case. The
enjoinment list will include people enjoined from
custody of animals regardless of whether the
Court ordered enjoinment occurred before or
after the effective date of this Ordinance, and the
Registry time period shall be the longer of this
ordinance, or the time period set forth in a Court
order or as a condition of their sentencing in a
criminal case.
The Sheriff will attempt to ensure that the
information in the Registry is accurate and
complete. However, the Sheriff relies on other
sources for the information. As a result, the
Sheriff makes no express or implied guarantee
concerning the accuracy or completeness of any
of the data in the Registry.
The information in this Registry must be used
responsibly. Anyone who uses this information
to knowingly harass or interfere with lawful
commerce shall commit a violation of this
Ordinance punishable as provided in Section
Seven (B).
Upon notification to the Sheriff that the
criminal records of a person have been expunged
by the Court or of a successful appeal of a
conviction of an Abuse Offense by a person
required to register pursuant to this Ordinance,
the registration information for that person shall
be removed from the Abuser Registry within ten
(10) business days following notification.
(Ord. No. 2024-24, § 3)
Sec. 14-109. Abuser registration require-
ments.
A. All Abusers who reside in the County and
who are convicted of an Abuse Offense, on or
after the effective date of this Ordinance, and
Abusers convicted within the past 3 years for
Misdemeanors and 5 years for Felonies, must
personally appear at the designated Sheriff's
office to register with the Collier County Abuser
Registry within ten (10) business days after
their release from incarceration or, if not incarcer-
ated, from the date of the conviction judgment.
In the event an Abuser fails to timely register,
the Sheriff may elect to seek the required informa-
tion and to post such information on the Registry.
B. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a person
who establishes residency in the County, together
with seasonal residents who live within the
County at least thirty days, and who was convicted
of an Abuse Offense in another Florida jurisdic-
tion, on or after the effective date of this
Ordinance, must, within ten (10) business days
of establishing residency in the County, person-
ally appear at the designated Sheriff's office to
register with the Collier County Abuser Registry.
C. Every person required to register with the
Abuser Registry shall personally appear at the
designated Sheriff's office to submit the follow-
ing:
1. Name and any aliases they may be known
by;
2. Current residence address or expected
place of residence;
3. Date of birth;
4. A photograph of the front of their head
and shoulders;
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CD14:43Supp. No. 122
5. Copy of judgment(s) to confirm offense(s),
the date of conviction, and the sentence
imposed;
6. Any other documentation/information as
the Sheriff may deem necessary to verify
the information provided by the registrant.
D. Every person required to register with the
Abuser Registry shall pay an initial registration
fee of $15.00 to the Sheriff's Office.
E. Every person registered with the Abuser
Registry shall personally appear at the designated
Sheriff's office to update their Registry informa-
tion within ten (10) business days of any change
in residential address and/or upon any official
name change and shall pay a change fee of $5.00
to the Sheriff's Office.
F. Every person registered with the Abuser
Registry shall personally appear at the designated
Sheriff's office to renew their registration informa-
tion annually (on the anniversary date of the
initial registration or by the first business day
following, or on some other date to be determined
by the Sheriff). At such time, the registrant's
photograph and information shall be reviewed in
order to verify the continuing accuracy of what
was previously provided by the registrant. The
registrant shall pay a renewal fee of $5.00 to the
Sheriff's Office.
G. Disposition of the fee: Fees collected pursu-
ant to this Ordinance shall be deposited by the
Sheriff's Office into the Sheriff's operating account
to be used to help pay the administrative and
maintenance costs of maintaining the Registry.
(Ord. No. 2024-24, § 4)
Sec. 14-110. Prohibition on contact with
animals.
A. A registrant shall not be allowed to own
and/or possess and/or live in the same home with
or on the same property as an animal while on
the Registry unless otherwise provided in a
Court order.
B. A registrant shall not be allowed to work
with a companion animal, with or without
compensation or otherwise, while on the Registry
unless otherwise provided in a Court order.
C. A registrant who has been determined by a
Court to be unfit to have custody of animals
pursuant to Section 828.073, Florida Statutes
shall also be bound by the determinations of the
Court if that determination was made pursuant
to the same underlying facts resulting in the
criminal conviction that requires them to register
with the Collier County Abuser Registry.
D. The County and the Sheriff reserve the
right and may exercise their right at any time
they deem necessary to enforce or, notwithstand-
ing any other Court order, obtain a Court order
enjoining a registrant from owning and/or pos-
sessing and/or living with an animal and/or
working with a companion animal while on the
Registry.
(Ord. No. 2024-24, § 5)
Sec. 14-111. Animal shelters, pet sellers,
private citizens, or other enti-
ties prohibited from transfer-
ring animal ownership to
abusers.
A. No Animal Shelter, Pet Seller, person, or
entity located in the County shall sell, exchange
or otherwise transfer the ownership of an animal
to any person listed as an Abuser on the Abuser
Registry.
B. Prior to sale, exchange, or other transfer of
ownership of any animal, the Animal Shelter,
Pet Seller, or other commercial entity shall take
whatever steps necessary to ensure that an
animal is not being transferred to a person listed
on the Registry.
C. Such steps shall include, but may not be
limited to, posting, when possible, current sig-
nage displaying registrants in well-trafficked,
highly visible areas for public viewing and in
stock/break areas of employees; notifying law
enforcement upon the recognition of a registrant
who has obtained an animal while on the Registry;
and requiring the person to sign an affidavit
attesting that they are not listed on the Registry.
D. The Animal Shelter, Pet Seller, or other
commercial entity shall be required to maintain
the required affidavits and other adequate records
and supporting documentation for three (3) years
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CD14:44Supp. No. 122
or in accordance with the required retention
time set forth by business standards and practices
governing the particular commercial establish-
ment and record, whichever is greater, to assure
compliance with this Ordinance. The County or
the Sheriff and its authorized agents shall have
the right to examine all such records and docu-
ments relating to compliance with this Ordinance,
and the Animal Shelter, Pet Seller, or other
commercial entity may be required to cooperate
and permit the County of the Sheriff to examine
all such records and documents relating to compli-
ance with this Ordinance.
E. It shall not be a violation if the Animal
Shelter, Pet Seller, private citizen or commercial
entity checked with the Abuser Registry and the
name of the Abuser did not appear thereon as
required.
(Ord. No. 2024-24, § 6)
Sec. 14-112. Penalties.
A. Any Abuser required to initially register
with the Collier County Abuser Registry, update
changes in address or name, annually renew
their Registry information, pay any required
fees, comply with the prohibition on contact with
certain animals, and/or comply with any Court-
issued enjoinment order under this Ordinance,
and fails to do so, may be prosecuted in any or all
of the following manners:
1. Pursuant to the provisions of Section
125.69, Florida Statutes, any person
violating these provisions may be subject
to prosecution in the name of the State in
the same manner as misdemeanors are
prosecuted; and, upon conviction, such
person shall be punished by a fine not to
exceed $500.00, or by imprisonment in
the County jail not to exceed 60 days, or
by both such fine and imprisonment;
2. Nothing contained herein shall prevent
the County or Sheriff from taking such
other lawful action in law and equity as
may be necessary to remedy any viola-
tion of, or refusal to comply with, any
part of this Ordinance, including, but not
limited to, pursuit of injunctive and/or
declaratory relief and/or enjoinment, or
other equitable relief in a Court of
competent jurisdiction, or initiating an
action to recover any and all damages
that may result from a violation of, or
refusal to comply with, any part of this
Ordinance;
3. Each day of a continuing violation shall
constitute a separate violation.
B. Any individual or entity that sells,
exchanges or otherwise transfers the ownership
of an animal to any person listed as an Abuser on
the Abuser Registry, in violation of Section 6 of
this Ordinance, shall be penalized in the follow-
ing manner:
1. For the first offense, a warning notice
shall be issued by the County or Sheriff;
2. For a second offense, a fine may be
imposed pursuant to the provisions of
Section 125.69, Florida Statutes;
3. For a third or subsequent violation, the
individual or entity may be prosecuted in
any or all of the following manners set
forth above for Abusers.
(Ord. No. 2024-24, § 7)
Secs. 14-113—14-135. Reserved.
§ 14-135ANIMALS
CD14:45Supp. No. 122