OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The Marion County Board of County Commissioners reconvened on Feb. 4, 2025, to continue discussions on proposed amendments to Chapter 4 of the Marion County Code, which governs animal control regulations.
The hearing followed a previous meeting on Dec. 3, 2024, where the county attorney introduced an updated ordinance for consideration. Commissioners requested further information on several key issues before making a final decision. On Feb. 4, the county attorney presented a summary of the proposed changes, outlining adjustments and clarifications aimed at refining the ordinance.
Three major topics dominated the discussion. The first focused on whether the Marion County Animal Shelter should maintain its no-kill designation or adopt an alternative status, such as a socially conscious shelter. After evaluating both approaches, commissioners decided to retain the shelter’s current designation without modifications, according to Dana Olesky, Marion County assistant county attorney.
The second issue concerned mandatory licensing by veterinarians. At this stage, staff recommended a voluntary licensing program for at least the next year, Olesky said.
“We can bring back after the year is up how many more license tags we sold through the veterinarians and if we see an uptick in the amount,” said Olesky. “I can share with you at the court citation hearings it has been confirmed by the judges that we are making the process of obtaining the licensing through our QR code or online, and that’s been well-received from the individuals, making it a little bit easier.”
The most debated topic involved proposed changes to land development regulations. One revision, requested by Commissioner Carl Zalak, III, introduced language permitting community cat caregivers to operate under a cat sanctuary permit. Additionally, updates were made to the disaster plan, ensuring it addresses emergencies, death, and incapacitation. While the ordinance does not mandate specific details for the plan, it now requires consistency across all sections.
Additional changes not present in the December draft included a new restriction on animal tethering. Under the revised ordinance, tethering an animal for more than five hours within a 24-hour period would be prohibited. This adjustment was informed by staff discussions, a review of similar ordinances, and community feedback. Furthermore, minor adjustments were made to clarify violation notices.
The land development regulation language has undergone multiple workshops and is scheduled for further discussion on Feb. 5. A public hearing with the Land Development Regulation Commission (LDRC) is set for next month before returning to the Board of County Commissioners for two public hearings, including one that must be held after 5 p.m.
A key focus of the LDRC review will be the ordinance’s approach to limiting pet ownership based on zoning. Proposed changes would establish numerical limits for dog and cat ownership, with a waiver process available in designated zoning areas through a special use permit.