The bylaw comes into effect on January 1, 2014.
What conditions are required for a dog to be considered a “nuisance dog”?
The new Nuisance Dog licence category will apply to dogs that have had three or more convictions in the past three years for any combination of the following offences:
- excessive barking
- excessive defecation
- failure to control or leash while the dog is off the owner’s property.
What if I have a previous conviction for one of these offences?
After the bylaw comes into effect January 1, 2014, those dogs that have had three or more convictions in the previous three years will be required, at the next renewal date, to obtain a Nuisance Dog License.
Renewal licence procedure:
Prior to the renewal of any Nuisance Dog License, administration will conduct a review to determine if the dog still meets the requirements of the Nuisance definition (three convictions in three years). If the dog no longer meets the definition, a regular dog licence will be issued.
Will I be notified that my dog is now considered a Nuisance Dog?
After January 1, 2014, the City will notify all current owners of dogs who have had three or more convictions in the past three years that their dog is now deemed a Nuisance Dog. We will also offer information on approaches to address nuisance behaviour.
What happens when my dog is considered a “nuisance dog”?
Nuisance Dogs will be subject to an increased licence fee of $100 a year (versus $35 for spayed or neutered dogs).
Additional conditions could also be imposed on the licensee to ensure compliance with the Animal Licensing and Control Bylaw. For example, an owner who has been fined for failing to control or leash their dog could be required to keep their dog in a secure enclosure while outdoors.
Fines for Nuisance Dogs for any of the three offences listed above will increase to $250 (from $100).
Why is this new licence category being introduced?
The creation of a nuisance dog category aims to:
- hold the owners of dogs who are continuously misbehaving to a higher standard
- act as a deterrent for repeat violations
- provide motivation to take remedial action and correct the dog's behaviour.
How was the public consulted before these changes were proposed?
Extensive public consultation was previously completed which showed support for stronger enforcement measures for dog attacks and chronic offenders of the Animal Licensing and Control Bylaw.
How can I appeal the conditions imposed by the City?
If a licensee disagrees with any condition imposed by the City, the licensee may appeal the condition to the Community Standards and Licence Appeal Committee.