§ 4-25. Maximum number of animals; authority to seize.

(a)

It shall be unlawful for any person to own or keep more than a total of seven dogs, cats, and other domestic animals (excluding aquatic life inside tank enclosures) within a single family dwelling in the village, not more than three of which may be dogs or cats, except that a litter of pups, kittens, or other young domestic animals may be kept for a period of time not exceeding six months from birth.

(b)

It shall be unlawful for any person to own or keep more than three dogs, cats, or other domestic animals (excluding aquatic life inside tank enclosures) within a multifamily dwelling unit in the village, not more than two of which may be dogs or cats, except that a litter of pups, kittens, or other young domestic animals may be kept for a period of time not exceeding six months from birth.

(c)

In addition to any fine or penalty that may be sought for violation of this subsection, the village shall provide notice to the owner of an animals in excess of the maximum allowable number requiring the removal of the unauthorized animals from the dwelling as follows:

(1)

The animal owner shall be given a reasonable period of time, but no longer than 45 days from the date of the notice, to comply with said notice.

(2)

To the extent reasonable attempts by the village to obtain voluntary compliance are not successful, the village may file an action with a court of competent jurisdiction seeking an order allowing the village to seize the animals and arrange for the disposition of the animals to an animal shelter.

(3)

To the extent the animal owner refuses to voluntarily comply and the village is required to seize the animals the owner of said animals shall reimburse the village for any cost and expense incurred by the village in seizing the unlawful animals impounding, and arranging for the disposition of said animals.

(d)

This section shall not apply to any establishment where animals are kept for sale, adoption, veterinarian care, grooming, or boarding.

(Code 1993, § 4-2.1; Ord. No. 2011-O-32, 5-10-2011)