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Leash Laws & FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Does St. Johns County have a leash law?
St. Johns County Division of Animal Control operates under County Ordinance 2017-36. This ordinance creates the St. Johns County Leash and Dangerous Law for dogs and cats. The main objective of this department is to enforce this law as well as State of Florida statutes that apply, such as rabies.
The Leash and Dangerous Law Ordinance, was established with everyone's safety in mind. By keeping your pet on a leash, you protect your pet from traffic if it should suddenly dart away. You safeguard your pet from injury from passers by who felt your pet intended them harm and react defensively. You hopefully avoid a situation in which your pet may bite someone and then be deemed "dangerous."
If you have a pet that may be aggressive or a fear biter, by keeping them on a leash you prevent an incident. As stated above, a pet that bites may be deemed "dangerous" (County Ordinance 2017-36). With this in mind, you can understand that our Animal Control Officers are also here to protect our citizens from harm. By enforcing the laws, they hope to prevent any citizen from being bitten or attacked by a dog or a cat, as well as safeguarding your pets.
Where are stray cats and dogs taken?
To the Pet Center, 130 N. Stratton Rd., St. Augustine, Florida 32095 (Map) | P: (904) 209-6190
Why have an identification tag on your pet’s collar?
This tag will allow the finder of your pet to contact you so it can be returned to you. If you don't have one, they can be purchased at pet stores, some big chain retailers, or a veterinarian clinic.
Do we pick up animals other than cats and dogs?
Agricultural issues (e.g. chickens, horses, cattle) should be directed to the SJC Sheriff's Office.
Do you respond to sick wildlife calls?
Yes. However, we do not set traps for wildlife. If we receive a concerned citizen call in reference to sick or injured wildlife, we do respond during regular and after hour emergencies.
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OUR MISSION
First and foremost, we are public servants. Protecting people from animals and animals from people.