§ 4-38. Classification of dogs as dangerous.

(a)

The provisions of Chapter 767, Florida Statutes, as may be amended, pertaining to [dangerous dogs] are adopted in their entirety as a part of this article. All procedures, regulations, requirements, and restrictions pertaining to dangerous dogs are applicable under this article, and a violation of the statute shall constitute a violation of this article.

(b)

Within fourteen (14) days after issuance of the final order classifying the dog as dangerous or the conclusion of any appeal that affirms such final order, the owner of the dog must obtain a dangerous dog certificate of registration from animal control services. It is a violation of this article for the owner of a dog classified as dangerous to refuse or fail to obtain a dangerous certificate of registration as required by this subsection. The certificate shall be renewed annually. Such certificates shall be issued only to persons who are at least eighteen (18) years of age and who present to animal services sufficient evidence of:

(1)

A current certificate of rabies vaccination for the dog;

(2)

A secure enclosure to confine a dangerous dog and the posting on the premises with a clearly visible warning sign at each entry point that informs both children and adults of the presence of a dangerous dog on the property; and

(3)

Permanent identification of the dog, such as a tattoo on the inside thigh or ear or electronic implantation.

(4)

Spay or neuter dangerous animals within ten (10) days of declaration and provide animal control documentation of such after completion.

(c)

It is a violation of the article for the owner of an animal classified as dangerous to refuse or fail to sign the affidavit acknowledging the animal has been declared dangerous and that he or she has complied the requirements set forth above in subsection (b). Failure to sign the affidavit will result in the issuance of a citation for a violation of this article.

(d)

As a condition to each dog's classification, any animal control officer or law enforcement officer shall, at any reasonable hour, have the right to inspect the owner's premises to determine compliance with Chapter 767, Florida Statutes, and the Polk County ordinance. It shall be unlawful for an owner to deny the animal control officer or enforcement officer access to inspect the outside of the owner's premises to determine compliance as provided in this section.

(e)

Failure to comply with Chapter 767, Florida Statutes, and Polk County ordinance as they may be amended, pertaining to dangerous dogs may result in a fine not to exceed five hundred dollars ($500.00).

(Ord. No. 18-068, § 18, 10-2-18)