CLOVIS, N.M. -- Last month a pet licensing ordinance went into affect for Clovis residents. In that time the new ordinance has uncovered numerous violations in the city.
The Clovis News Journal reports that under city ordinance, each household is only allowed four pets. July first authorities began enforcing that ordinance and since that time several residents have came in to register their pets, asking for six and seven applications. Police Chief Steve Sanders told the Clovis News Journal that animal control doesn't have the resources to proactively enforce those violations.
Sanders also said they aren't going out and hammering those who have more than four pets, as long as the pets are being cared for.
However, violators can be fined up to $100 and repeat offenses can add up to $300 and the loss of eligibility to adopt pets from the city shelter for one year.
Residents with more than four pets can apply for a variance that is essentially a kennel license, Sanders said.
While the city doesn't have the resources to actively enforce the four pet rule, they will investigate complaints or reports of violations.
