Animals

(a)

Except in specifically prohibited areas, domesticated pets are permitted within outdoor department managed lands. All such animals must be restrained by the handler and the handler must be in direct control at all times at a distance not greater than six (6) feet in length from the handler [animal], unless in a designated off-leash area. No such animals, except service animals, shall be allowed on city boardwalks or narrow passageways. All animals shall wear up-to-date tags indicating that the animal's rabies vaccinations are current.

(b)

As used herein, the term "direct control" means immediate, continuous physical control of an animal at all times such as by means of a fence, leash, cord or chain, or other means, of such strength to restrain the animal.

(c)

No person shall bring into any department managed land any wild or livestock animals, including but not limited to, cattle, mules, swine, sheep, goats, fowl, or reptiles, without prior written approval from the department, except when in conjunction with projects sponsored by city departments. Any animal brought into any department managed land shall have a current health certificate and exhibit no signs of disease.

(d)

Dangerous dogs, as defined in F.S. Ch. 767, or any amended or successor statute, are prohibited from all department managed lands.

(e)

In conjunction with projects sponsored by city departments or upon prior written approval from the department, certain animals may be allowed in designated areas of the department managed lands at specified times without restraint.

(f)

No person owning or having custody or control of any animal shall fail to immediately remove the animal's excrement from any department managed land. This shall not apply to service animals or to animals used by police officers for law enforcement or tracking purposes.

(g)

The director or designee shall post appropriate signs in the parks as to the hours of operation and rules of the parks, including the acknowledgment that use of the parks by a dog owner and/or person in custody of any dog shall constitute an unconditional agreement to hold the city harmless for any damage or injury to any member of the public and/or the dog or other dogs.

(h)

Service animals shall be permitted to accompany individuals with disabilities within all department managed lands in accordance with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

(Ord. No. 2009-125, § 89, 8-20-09; Ord. No. 2014-86, § 16, 9-18-2014)