Animal Safety

There have been several instances in the neighborhood recently of dogs that were not on a leash. This is a safety hazard and against the law.  Some residents may not be aware of the following Hillsborough County Laws and Ordinances pertaining to animals:

Leash Ordinance
Any pet that is off its owner’s property or in a public place, like a neighborhood sidewalk, farmers market, or outdoor café, must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet, and its owner must have control at all times. If cited, the fines are at least $100 and up to $500 for multiple violations.

Leash Ordinance – Ch. 38 Article II Sec. 38-26

Animal-at-Large Ordinance
A pet can’t be off its owner’s property running freely. If off its property, a pet should always be on a leash no longer than 6 feet and under control by its owner. If cited for an animal-at-large, the fines are at least $100 and up to $500 for multiple violations.

Animal-at-Large Ordinance – Article II Sec. 6-28

Vicious Animals and Aggressive Dogs 
Dogs are not allowed to approach or chase a person/pet in a way that makes them fear they will be bitten. Dogs are not allowed to bite or attack a person or pet unprovoked. If cited for vicious animal or aggressive dog, the fines start at $450.

Vicious Animals and Aggressive Dogs Ordinance – Article II Sec. 6-27

Hillsborough County Ordinance also requires all pet waste to be picked up.

Raccoon and pool safety:  A few residents have reported seeing racoons in their yard and feces in their pools on the steps left behind by a raccoon. Only a day after a deposit, the feces may appear like a pancake sized area of dirt. Although chlorine in pools will kill most germs that a raccoon could carry into the water, it does not kill Baylisascariseggs. If raccoon feces or a dead raccoon are found in the pool, you’ll want to close the pool to swimmers then test the raccoon or its feces for Baylisascaris. If the feces or raccoon tests positive for Baylisascaris, clean the pool as described on this page of the CDC’s website.

If you have any questions or concerns please contact the Association Office at (813) 949-9768.

COMING SOON SUMMER SAFETY TIPS………..