Council introduces first reading of ordinance making unattended animal confinement in vehicles illegal

The Radcliffe City Council on Aug. 19 heard a first reading of an ordinance that would make it unlawful to leave or confine an animal in an unattended motor vehicle under conditions that endanger the animal’s health or well‑being.

The summary read by the city attorney authorizes a first responder to take all steps reasonably necessary to remove an animal from a vehicle — including breaking into the vehicle — if the officer has probable cause and statutory conditions are met. The draft ordinance establishes penalties for violation as a Class B misdemeanor with fines between $5 and $250 and possible jail time between five and 90 days.

Why it matters: The ordinance follows contemporary municipal approaches to animal welfare and public safety by granting limited authority to first responders to act when animals are at risk because of weather or other hazards. The measure was placed on first reading; council did not adopt the ordinance that night.

Next steps: The full ordinance text is available on the city website or via the city clerk; staff will schedule the required subsequent readings per municipal code.

Ending: No formal vote or final action occurred; the ordinance remains at first reading for further consideration.