Dangerous animal ordinance on the books

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Earlier this year, the Copiah County Board of Supervisors approved an ordinance governing the control of dogs and other dangerous animals in the county.

The ordinance makes it unlawful to knowingly possess a dangerous animal, including dogs, that are not in proper enclosures or otherwise controlled. Dangerous dogs include those who chase or exhibit an attitude of attack, or which has attempted to bite, or has maimed or killed any person or other animal.

The ordinance outlines various other actions that define dangerous animals, including having the behavior or propensity to inflict serious injury or death, the owner knowing the animal has tendencies for unprovoked attacks, or has been certified by a vet as posing a danger to humans or domestic animals. The fine for a first offense is up to $500, second offense up to $750, third offense up to $900, and subsequent offenses may be fined up to $1,000 and the owner may be sentenced up to six months in jail.

Dogs protecting their owner’s property against trespass, themselves, or others are not defined dangerous animals. However, delivery drivers are considered to have permission to enter property and are not considered to be trespassing when doing their job.

In addition to dangerous animals, nuisance animals are also addressed in the ordinance and include animals chasing cars, threatening other animals, trespassing on or damaging property, or vocalizing for extended periods of time. Fines are up to $200 for first offense, $250 to $500 for second offense with a possibility of up to 30 days in jail, and $500 to $1,000 for third and subsequent offenses. On the first offense, the officer may issue a written notice for the owner to resolve the matter. The warning gives the owner an opportunity to rectify the situation.

The ordinance took effect July 12, applies to unincorporated areas of Copiah County, and is enforceable by the Copiah County Sheriff’s Office. Any cases under the ordinance will be heard by Copiah County Justice Court.

The full ordinance is available in the office of the Board of Supervisors in the Copiah County Courthouse.