Ord 2022-096 amending Chapter 6, Animals, of the San Marcos City Code to amend definitions, delegate authority for department to waive or reduce fees

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Traceable identification means a type of identification,such as a tag, microchip,or tattoo that can be readily used by an animal control officer or animal services to identify the current ownership of an animal. Trap,neuter and return(TNR)program means a nonlethal, humane alternative to deal with stray cats which are captured,spayed/neutered and returned to their location in order to encourage the stabilization of the free- roaming cat population in the city. Un-owned or homeless animal means an animal for which an owner does not exist or has not been identified. Unrestrained means an animal not restrained by leash or lead, physical restraint, or by a substantial fence or pen. Vaccination means the inoculation of an animal with a rabies vaccine that is licensed by the United Sates Department of Agriculture for use in that species and which is administered according to the label's directions by a veterinarian for the purpose of immunizing the animal against rabies. Veterinarian means a veterinarian licensed to practice in the State of Texas. Veterinary hospital means any facility operated by a licensed veterinarian for surgery,diagnosis and treatment of animal injuries and illnesses. Wildlife means any indigenous animal that typically occurs naturally in the wild state. Wildlife educational center means an organization that has met all of the state and federal requirements to possess wildlife for educational purposes. Zoo or Zoological park means any facility, other than a pet shop, kennel,or wildlife education center, displaying or exhibiting one or more species of non-domesticated animals,and operated by a person,partnership, corporation or governmental entity. (Ord. No. 2008-62, §2, 12-16-08;Ord. No. 2009-19, §2, 3-31-09;Ord. No. 2021-39, §2,6-1-21) Sec. 6.002. Fees—Exemptions. (a) All fees,including permits, required under this chapter will be set by the city council.A schedule of fees is kept on file for public inspection in the office of the city clerk and the animal control office. (b) Prosecution or payment of fines under this chapter shall in no way interfere with the animal shelter's collection of fees from the person prosecuted or fined. (c) Exemption from fees may be issued for the following: (1) Police or other law enforcement department dogs; (2) Service animals trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability. (d) Eligibility for fee exemptions does not relieve the owner of any responsibility under other sections of this chapter. (e) The director of the department overseeing animal services may authorize the animal services manager to waive or reduce fees as deemed appropriate by the director for the purposes of reducing animal intake, reducing length of stay, promoting public health, and for supporting responsible pet ownership. (Ord. No. 2008-62, §2, 12-16-08) Created: 2022-03-03 11:27:11 [EST] (Supp. No.34,Update 4) Page 8 of 40