Jacksonville Beach, Florida

Sec. 5-43. Neglect; abandoning animals; animal confinement; tethering.

(1) It shall be unlawful for any person to neglect or abandon an animal. Violations of this section are deemed irreparable or irreversible in nature.

(2) For purposes of this division, it shall be considered neglect if one or more of the following occurs:

e. Restraint by tethering:

i. No person shall tether an animal to a stationary or inanimate object as a means of confinement or restraint unless such person is outside with the animal and the animal is at all times visible to such person. No person shall, under any circumstances, tether any animal in a manner that is injurious to the animal’s health, safety, and well-being.

ii. The tether shall not weigh more than one-eighth of the animal’s body weight. When a violation of this provision occurs, an ACO is authorized to take reasonable measures to remove the animal from the tether and take the tether and animal to the shelter.

iii. The tether must be at least 12 feet in length with operative swivels on both ends.

iv. The tether shall be attached to a properly fitted collar or harness worn by the animal; the tether may not be attached to a slip/choke or prong collar.

v. The animal, while restrained by a tether, must be able to access proper shelter with sufficient floor, at least three walls, and roof to protect the animal from the weather, extreme temperatures, and direct sunlight; and is able to access sufficient potable water and sufficient wholesome food.

vi. In the interest of public safety, ACOs and LEOs are authorized to remove aggressive and dangerous dogs from tethers and impound such animals where the animal is accessible by children or the public without a secured fence or enclosure. Boarding fees will be the responsibility of the owner of the impounded dog.