Ordinance Update
Animal Control
Regulations
El Paso de Robles Municipal Code
Commander Tod Rehner
April 1, 2025
Purpose of the Ordinance
Ensure consistent animal control services through
regional standards.
Address specific needs of the City of Paso Robles
by allowing jurisdiction preferences.
Adopt County Title 9 “By Reference”, meaning
Title 9 becomes our Animal Control Laws in their
entirety. (Change from 1st reading)
Change from 1st Reading:
Previous Ordinance was a blend of PRMC and
County Title 9, which afforded Paso Robles more
control over the Code.
Update: County is mandating “adopt by
reference” with new contracts in July 2025.
The difference with “Adopting by Reference”:
Gives County ability to change/amend County
Code, which will also amend all jurisdictions.
This process is efficient, but jurisdictions lose
some amount of control.
Certified copy of Title 9 to be kept in clerk’s
office for public inspection.
Key Proposed Amendments
Changes to Paso Robles Muni Code:
Feeding or leaving out food for wild/stray
animals prohibited
Animal living areas must be clean and sanitary
Microchipping of pet dogs and cats required
Duty to remove animal solid waste
Duty for motorist to stop if a vehicle injures
domestic animal
Paso Robles retains certain jurisdiction specific
sections (number of pets, ban on roosters and
pigs for example)
Fee and Penalty Provisions
County and PRMC fines will be the same.
Infractions: $100 first violation, $500 for second,
$1000 for each additional (within one year).
Misdemeanors: Fine increased to $1,000.
Fiscal Impact
No fiscal impact beyond the current contract with
San Luis Obispo County Division of Animal Services.
Q&A
Questions and Discussion.