Location: Maryland
Hello,
I am seeking advice on how to deal with police officers that are animal control officers. Prior to getting chickens for pets, I spoke with animal control as well as checked online for the law concerning keeping birds:
“
Aviaries -
An owner must not allow a domestic or exotic bird, including a homing pigeon, to be in an aviary within 100 feet of any structure used for human habitation or work. This does not apply to a bird inside the owner's dwelling, in a pet shop, in an agricultural area, or in a market for less than 24 hours for sale for human consumption.
“
Long story short, my chickens live in the attached garage (but I let them out occasionally, always supervised), and I was left a citation indicating that if I did not remove them, I would receive a fine since the birds were not 100 feet away from the neighbors, regardless that they lived inside the dwelling and not outdoors. Printed on the citation, it says I have five days to appeal, but the officer only gave me two days to comply. I am distressed and very upset that this officer can change the law to what he sees fit, just so he doesn’t have to deal with any more chicken complaints. I have tried calling him, but he does not return messages. I plan to speak to his superiors, but would like some advice in regards to this. I mean, according to him and his new law, I can’t even have a parakeet. Thanks.
Hello,
I am seeking advice on how to deal with police officers that are animal control officers. Prior to getting chickens for pets, I spoke with animal control as well as checked online for the law concerning keeping birds:
“
Aviaries -
An owner must not allow a domestic or exotic bird, including a homing pigeon, to be in an aviary within 100 feet of any structure used for human habitation or work. This does not apply to a bird inside the owner's dwelling, in a pet shop, in an agricultural area, or in a market for less than 24 hours for sale for human consumption.
“
Long story short, my chickens live in the attached garage (but I let them out occasionally, always supervised), and I was left a citation indicating that if I did not remove them, I would receive a fine since the birds were not 100 feet away from the neighbors, regardless that they lived inside the dwelling and not outdoors. Printed on the citation, it says I have five days to appeal, but the officer only gave me two days to comply. I am distressed and very upset that this officer can change the law to what he sees fit, just so he doesn’t have to deal with any more chicken complaints. I have tried calling him, but he does not return messages. I plan to speak to his superiors, but would like some advice in regards to this. I mean, according to him and his new law, I can’t even have a parakeet. Thanks.
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