Discussion and possible action to adopt ORD. 2021-01 amending Chapter 16 of the Peoria City Code adopting new language that prohibits dogs at large; requires that dogs be confined within an enclosure on the owner or custodian’s property, and restrained by a leash not to exceed six feet in length while outside the owner or custodian’s property.

Currently, Chapter 16 of the City Code only addresses “at large” prohibitions for female dogs in breeding or mating season, vicious dogs and wild animals.  However, the Code does not generally prohibit dogs at large, aside from the previously mentioned categories, or require a minimum 6-foot leash while outside the custodian’s enclosed property. Therefore, the proposed amendment will establish prohibitions for any dog at large, require that dogs be confined within an enclosure on the owner or custodian’s property, and restrained by a leash not to exceed six feet in length while outside the owner or custodian’s property.

A: Approve the adoption of an Ordinance that prohibits any dog at large, requires that dogs be confined within an enclosure on the owner or custodian’s property, and restrained by a leash not to exceed six feet in length while outside the owner or custodian’s property.

B: Do not approve the adoption of an Ordinance that prohibits any dog at large, requires that dogs be confined within an enclosure on the owner or custodian’s property, and restrained by a leash not to exceed six feet in length while outside the owner or custodian’s property.

Staff recommends the adoption of the Ordinance that provides clarifying language prohibiting all dogs at large, requires that dogs be confined within an enclosure on the owner or custodian’s property, and restrained by a leash not to exceed six feet in length while outside the owner or custodian’s property.